YOUNGErPERSPECTIVE
Rachael Shirey Flowers
BY ERIN STEVENS A word from Erin Stevens… We are cutting right to the chase today. I have with me the vocal diva herself, one of the strongest set of pipes in gospel music circles, Rachael Shirey Flowers. I’ve known this lady for years, and her talent never ceases to amaze me. I always find myself learning something vocally when she hits the stage with her family. Let’s catch up with Rachael amidst the crazy that is her life. So ladies, kick off your heels; guys, pull up a chair and join our girlish chat. Erin Stevens: Did you take vocal lessons and/or vocal coaching while you were growing up? Rachael Flowers: I actually did take vocal lessons when I was around 12 years old. Stevens: How do your vocal inspirations from your teen years differ from who inspires you now? Flowers: Sonya Isaacs has always heavily been an influence in my life. I listened to every CD the Isaacs had growing up and I learned every word, but now I listen to all types of music, so there are a good many along the way that I’ve looked up to. Stevens: How would you describe this new season of life? Between being a wife, mother, lead vocalist, and logging the miles you do to meet your folks week after week - how do you make it work to fit your lifestyle? Flowers: It’s all I’ve ever known as far as traveling, but being a new mother and wife, it’s hard leaving the house, but thankfully my precious baby gets to go on the road with us every weekend. I’ve always stood in the shadows, so it’s a little different being front and center, but it’s helped me mature and grow spiritually.
Stevens: What are some tips and tricks you can give fellow artists on how to sing through sickness? Flowers: Don’t do it. No, I’m kidding. Lots of tea, honey and coffee always help me. Stevens: What is your most embarrassing stage story you can share…or want to share? Flowers: Probably when we were singing in a coffee shop where they had gospel music concerts, and I went to sing
