Experiences in life lead to the best songwriters, because they have the stories to tell. Nebraska native Janelle Grace is one of those songwriters. With a life full of many challenges, including a serious car accident, a health misdiagnose, having now lost both parents, and freak incident that involved swallowing glass which ended up affecting her voice, Janelle Grace has approached everything with her namesake – Grace. She filters those experiences into lyrics, not only as a cathartic process for herself but to also help those who may need to know they aren’t alone.
We recently caught up with Janelle Grace to chat about her musical journey, her latest single “In This Heart of Mine” and more.
CN: For those just discovering you and your music, can you tell us a little bit about yourself?
JG: I am a singer/songwriter from Nebraska who moved to Nashville 14 years ago to pursue music. I have lived through many life altering challenges on this journey. I am a story teller, songwriter, and feel my purpose is to help and inspire others based on my own experiences through my music. I am also a dental hygienist for the Nashville community.
CN: Who are the artists – past or present — who have shaped your sound and perspective?
JG: Patty Loveless, Lee Ann Womack, Shania Twain, Martina McBride, Faith Hill, Carrie Underwood, Alison Krauss, and Jelly Roll
CN: How long have you been singing/songwriting?
JG: Started playing acoustic guitar in second grade, started to poetry write in my elementary years, which led to songwriting.
CN: What do you enjoy most about being an artist?
JG: Helping to make a difference in someone’s life. If fans can feel emotion and be moved in some way through my music and performance, then I have succeeded.
CN: Your latest single, In This Heart of Mine, feels incredibly personal, even though you did not write it. What was your emotional reaction the first time you heard it?
JG: The emotional reaction I had when I first heard this song was it coming to life through my family photo album. Almost all the lyrics related to my personal upbringing and memories shared with my mom and dad unfolded. I cried and cried and knew this song was so special and relatable for others who have lost loved ones too.
CN: Have you been surprised by any of the feedback you’ve received from fans or strangers who connected with the song?
JG: Yes. The one that sticks out the most was the comment of how it’s not just the song and lyrics, it’s my voice with the harmony and lyrics that fits perfectly. I started to tear up. I knew I had moved this person greatly with this song.
CN: This song is a tribute to your mother, touching on both grief and hope. How did you channel her spirit into the music and what do you hope listeners take away from that tribute?
JG: I channeled my mother’s spirit into the music by bringing all those photos in my family photo album that popped up in my mind when I heard the song. I made a collage and brought them into the studio as those memories were right in front of me while I recorded this song.
CN: Are there themes or emotions you find yourself returning to often in your music and in songwriting? Why do you think they continue to resonate with you?
JG: The themes and emotions I return to with songwriting is of an inspirational positive outlet. I try to find the silver lining in every situation that presents itself and writing about negative events and turning them into a positive outlook. Turning pain into purpose.
CN: What do you find most rewarding about being creative?
JG: What I find most rewarding of being creative is sharing raw authentic stories that others can relate to. We all have highs and lows in life. If my story makes one person feel less alone in their fight, then it’s worth telling. If I can reach one person and “change their life” with my music then that is the greatest reward of all.
CN: If you could give your future self advice, what would it be?
JG: Never give up no matter how hard it gets. Keep looking at any negative situations as a set up for a comeback. Breaking down your foundation to build you up even stronger than before. Don’t stop believing and you will persevere.
CN: If you could collaborate with any one artist, who would it be and why?
JG: Shania Twain! I lost count how many times I would say to myself “I wish I had Shania Twains phone number right now.” We have a lot in common and on this journey, it would have been helpful to talk to someone who has been through some similar life events. She is one of the main country female artists that influenced me in my younger years. I would also have to say Jelly Roll. He’s in my wheelhouse as an artist that wants to make a difference and inspire others with personal stories lived like me. I once was in a dark place and now I’m redeemed sharing my light and purpose.
CN: You’ve faced over 50 life-altering challenges since moving to Nashville. What kept you going during the most challenging moments?
JG: My strong faith, support system of family and friends, and music that heals from other artists kept me going in the most challenging moments. There were so many things that happened to get me to Nashville and I know in my heart and soul I was led here for a reason. I have faced uphill battles head on and kept going even in the darkest times.
CN: You made the move from Nebraska to Nashville, which isn’t a small leap. Was there a defining moment or realization that convinced you to take that risk?
JG: Yes, there was a very defining moment that led me to Nashville. Check out my website at www.JanelleGraceMusic.com and there’s a video called “The Journey of Janelle Grace.” This will explain it all. After my trip to Nashville, I knew my calling was in Music City!
CN: What can fans look forward to next (new music, music video, touring, or creative projects)?
JG: Fans can look forward to maybe a music video of my current single. 2026 has a lot in store for my future music career.
CN: Just for fun – What’s your go to karaoke song?
JG: “Don’t Stop Believing” by Journey.
For more information on Janelle Grace, visit her website janellegracemusic.com and follow her on Facebook and Instagram.