Posted on: December 17, 2007 Posted by: James McQuiston Comments: 0

Northwest singer Patti Hall won “Breakthrough Country Artist of the Year” at the New Music Awards at Hollywood’s Avalon Theatre. Presented by New Music Weekly Magazine, the award program honors radio stations, programmers and recording artists.

Ms. Hall gained popularity both internationally and in the U.S. this spring, with the release of her first single “Waitin’ on a Train.” Co-written by country heartthrob Joe Nichols, it’s the first release from her debut CD “Never Ask Why.” The single climbed every chart reaching # 3 with adult contemporary listeners, as well as hitting the Top 40 on country radio.

“Take Faith Hill, add some Bonnie Raitt, and mix in a style and delivery all her own … Patti Hall is one of the freshest voices I’ve heard in a long time. Remember that name. You’re going to be hearing it more and more,” said Lee Richey, program and music director for WCJW in Warsaw, NY. The station won the New Music Award for “Country Radio Station of the Year.”

In addition to winning “Breakthrough Country Artist of the Year,” Ms. Hall earned two more nominations including “Crossover Artist of the Year” and “Adult Contemporary Single of the Year.” Bon Jovi’s hit song “Make a Memory” was awarded that top honor.

Three nominations is an achievement for any artist, especially an independent newcomer. However, no breakthrough happens overnight. After a 20-year hiatus, the Seattle native recently reclaimed her two life’s passions of horses and music. Ms. Hall even created her own mantra: Sing Like You Mean It — Ride Like You Dream It. Now back in the saddle and back in the recording studio, she’s decided it’s never too late to follow her dreams. Based on this award, looks like music industry experts agree.

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