"A “Natural Beauty” not only for her physical appearance, but personality as well." These were the words used to describe Joelle by a former music coach. Now, years later, who could have known a ‘knock out’ ballad by the same name would grace Joelle’s latest CD release “Pillar of Stone”. “Pillar of Stone” is Joelle’s third CD project following an initial EP release entitled “Sugar” and her first full CD entitled “Look At Me Now”. “Music is who I am” states Joelle. “It’s my passion and creative outlet. It’s my 24 hr. pursuit even when I’m on the job making a living, as a stylist. I soak it up – trying to learn every facet of the business. I’ve heard of so many artists who just want to record and perform, but get stung along the way because they aren’t interested in the business elements”. This independent artist is a native Western Canadian currently living in Calgary, Alberta where, as a teen, she developed a passion for music singing gospel music and performing with the Youth Singers of Calgary. After her earlier “solo” productions, the “Pillar of Stone” album project was a concerted effort by Joelle to step out and work with other writers and producers in the industry. “Collaborating with several US songwriters for my latest CD was a key turning point for me as an artist and songwriter. I was exposed to some very talented artists in a very creative atmosphere”. While the writing sessions were extremely rewarding and fun, Joelle says, she was amazed at how helpful these people were in showing her the ropes in the music business and how enthusiastically they supported her project. “In addition to the songs I co-wrote with other artists for the CD, several “kicking” songs written by others were given to me for the album. Everyone I met on this project truly wants me to succeed”. Probably the most fortuitous development for Joelle was connecting up with Nashville producer Chris Omartian. His father, Michael Omartian is a very successful and well known producer in the music business and there is no doubt that the talent “gene pool” has been passed on to Chris. Chris has produced for artists such as Hillary Duff and Pink. “We were looking for a ‘leading edge” sound for the album and Chris has certainly captured it”, states Joelle. “As soon as industry “pros” had a chance to hear the first tracks from the album we had ardent fans and cheerleaders”. “While I wrote and produced all of my initial recordings and liked having total control over things, I learned with this latest project that sometimes you have to consider other ideas and opinions, particularly when other extremely talented people are involved. We had so many great songs to choose from, but Chris knew the songs that had the right “fit” for this album. I couldn’t be happier with the result”. To Joelle, the “Pillar of Stone” album represents so many personal feelings about past relationships, people she knows and everyday life situations. It’s raw, edgy and confident and yet has a vulnerability to it. Joelle says, “I’m a girl just living life trying to figure things out. My inner self is a pillar of stone trying to stand up for who I am and what I want. Hopefully the CD will help others to recognize their own inner strength, individuality and confidence”. Joelle’s family is strategically involved in her music career. Her father, a former executive in the energy business, acts as her business manager and financial advisor. Her husband Drew, a very creative production specialist with a Calgary marketing and promotions firm, develops most of her promotional material and graphics. Plus, her brother Steve, has developed and currently maintains Joelle’s official website; www.justjoelle.com. “Pursuing a career in the recording industry is very expensive – almost prohibitive for an independent artist, so I’m very blessed that several members of my family have professional backgrounds that can help with the many facets of my career”.