Today we’d like to introduce you to Chris Norwood.
Chris, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I grew up in Rockwall, TX and attended college at Hardin-Simmons University in Abilene, TX, where I met my wife Carrie. After college, I played in a band traveling the country playing at fairs and festivals. When we got married, my wife and I eventually settled in East Dallas, where we currently live. I began working as a Studio Manager at a music production company that writes music for commercials, TV, and film. I eventually worked my way up to associate creative director and composer. I also began working as a freelance composer and musician getting to write for several fun projects and play with some amazing musicians across Dallas. I released my debut solo album a couple of years, titled “Longshot.” It was released on State Fair Records. I also recently started the Americana/rock ‘n roll band, Texicana, with other talented musicians. In our short time, Texicana has already garnered buzz and accolades winning Best New Act AND Best Americana/Folk at the 2020 Central Track Music Honors as well as winning the 91.7 KXT 10th Anniversary Tiny Cake Contest.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
It has not always been a smooth road. There are always challenges. But you take the good with the bad, learn from your mistakes, and do your best to move on towards success.
Please tell us about your music.
For the past ten years, I have been a musician, producer, composer, recording engineer, etc. I have found that my key to success was a ‘jack of all trades.’ I have written music for Super Bowl ads. I have played as a sideman for supremely talented musicians, performing at venues all across the city. I’ve played with the Kids in the Hall at the Majestic Theater. Conducted members of the Dallas Symphony for a performance with Nas at the Bomb Factory. I’ve played with the Turtle Creek Chorale at the Meyerson Symphony Hall. Played at SXSW. And performed my music at my favorite venues like The Kessler and The Granada.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
Currently, I’m planning on releasing my second solo album, titled “I Am Not Cool”. It will hopefully be coming out sometime late this year or early next year and will be released on State Fair Records. My other band Texicana also has an EP coming out this summer. We’ll be planning release parties and lots of shows for both projects.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.chrisjnorwood.com
- Email: chris@chrisjnorwood.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/chrisjnorwood
- Facebook: facebook.com/chrisjnorwood
- Twitter: twitter.com/chrisjnorwood
- Other: www.texicanaband.com
Image Credit:
Alyssa Leigh Cates
Chris Taylor
Cal Quinn
Emmalou Gagnon
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