Work has gotten underway on two more new clients for Now Hear This, the company president announced today.
Vocalist Courtney Welch and author Debra Yates are the latest additions to the NHT roster.
“These are two exceptionally talented individuals that we’re getting the honor of working with,” NHT President Bruce Wawrzyniak said. “I was excited from the first opportunity I had to meet with each of them and look forward to telling their stories, building their brands, and highlighting their talents.
“What also impressed me about each of them is their deep passion for what they do.”
Welch is a college senior who has an impressive skill set in the arts. Having sung since age 13, already in her young career she has met Bobby McFerrin, who became known for his “Don’t Worry, Be Happy” song, but is also a classical composer. He was conducting at the Oregon Bach Festival in 2010 when he led the high school chorus she sang with. She was the only one chosen from Florida to participate and one of only 80 chosen from throughout the country (out of more than 1500 applicants). She was also one of only 10 (of the 80) chosen to do a solo at the event. Her being a soloist led to her meeting McFerrin.
Her vocal talent includes performing in Spanish, Italian, and German, with the potential for French and even tribal music too. She has sung with the Stetson (University) Women’s Chorale.
In addition to her proficiency with singing, Welch is a very accomplished dancer across many different styles, ranging from jazz to hip hop, lyrical, and even some tap.
If all that weren’t enough, she also has a theater background, including lead roles in “Grease” (Sandy) and “Guys and Dolls” (Sarah).
Debra Yates has written a book called, “Woman of Many Names.” A non-fiction work, the novel details the life of her seventh-great-grandmother, Nancy Ward. Also known as Nanyehi, she had connections to – among others – Daniel Boone and George Washington, having even saved the latter’s life!
Part of the reason Yates has written the book is due to Nancy Ward being a role model akin to Joan of Arc for young girls.
The late Elia Kazan, a noted movie producer in the 1950s and 60s, said his biggest regret was not making a movie about Nancy Ward.
Now Hear This will aid in the search for a publisher for “Woman of Many Names” and looks forward to bringing Nancy Ward’s story – via Debra Yates – and Courtney Welch’s talents to wider audiences.
Accelerating Your Brand & Reach