Suzzette Michaels grew up listening to country music in rural Talladega, Alabama.  From an early age she knew that she wanted to pursue a career as a country music artist.  As she proceeded toward her dream, Suzzette found herself singing at nightclubs throughout the South.  Although she enjoyed performing, singing for club audiences left her unfulfilled.  “I never felt comfortable singing in nightclubs, but at the time I didn’t feel like I had a lot of choices if I wanted to perform.”
          In 1987, while Suzzette was performing at a festival in Mississippi, she met Christian singer and songwriter, Paul Overstreet.  He was so impressed with her vocal style that he asked her to come to Nashville to record demos.  That chance meeting with Paul marked the beginning of many trips from Alabama to Nashville.  A year later after encouragement and support from Paul, as well as from family and friends, Suzzette, her husband Mike and daughter Katrina made the Nashville area their permanent home.
          The Nashville music community quickly took notice of Suzzette’s talent and after discussions with several major record labels she signed a recording contract with Warner Brothers Records. With Paul Overstreet as producer, Suzzette’s goal was to release songs that brought a positive message to country music radio.  As she began work on her first album Suzzette felt that her childhood dream was close to reality.  But in the competitive industry of country music it wasn’t meant to be.  More than a year into her recording agreement and with her album nearing completion, Suzzette was released from her contract.  Her childhood dream seemed to be unraveling.
          Hurt by her experiences in the country music industry, Suzzette withdrew from music and did very little with her talent for several years.  It was during this time that Suzzette’s walk with God became much stronger.  As she recommitted her life to Christ, Suzzette felt convicted to sing songs that would bring a spiritual message to her audience.  At every turn God seemed to be directing her into music ministry.  The transition wouldn’t be easy for Suzzette.  She felt as though her style didn’t “fit” Christian music and she wondered how it would be accepted.  Finally relenting to God’s call, Suzzette was soon making plans for her first Gospel album.
          Today, Suzzette has been devoting her time and talent to the service of her Lord and Savior for over five years.  As reflected in her latest album, On One Given Day, Suzzette writes and selects songs with lyrics that are pleasing to God.  Whether performing in the church or at a county fair, her goal remains the same.  She wants to make a difference with her music.  Singing straight from the heart, Suzzette is clearly able to reach out to those seeking God’s guidance in their lives.

Suzzette Michaels - What's in a name?