(www.curtcollins.com) -- Singer/songwriter Curt Collins isn't one of those guys who came to Nashville looking for fame or to make millions recording hit songs. He came with the sincere goal of wanting to serve others, share with them touching stories from his life and offer a source of hope for the hurting. It just so happens that Collins will realize that goal with the January 9th release of his self-titled national debut CD from FSS Records.
"It's always been my goal to touch one person at a time even though people always ask 'don't you want to do more than that?'" says Collins. "I have a heart for kids in children's homes, the ones who were abandoned and forgotten, and all the parents out there."
His heart for those who may be alone dates back to his own adoption as a child, and the parents who took him in, and unconditionally stood by his side personally, musically and spiritually. They've both since passed away, but Collins credits much of who he is as a man and a musician to them.
"When I was in eighth grade, I'd sit with my guitar at the fireplace and on winter nights I'd play for my parents," he recalls. "My mother would cry, though she'd always try to hide it. I've realized it's okay to cry and now the tears are mine now that my parents are gone, but I take every opportunity to let my family know how much I care about them."
His family cared enough about him to pack up their life in Little Rock, Arkansas, and move to Nashville last year, in order to accomodate Collins' recording commitments and his desire to be located in the heart of Music City. Though homesickness is a part of every move and loved ones were left behind, many new doors have been opened and its only brought Curt, his wife Bettinna and sons Aaron and Colin that much closer together.
"Any move is tough, but through a lot of prayer and consideration, this decision really sat right on our hearts," Collins explains. "There have already been times when it's been tough and we've missed our old home, but there have been several signs already that God has called us here. How can we question His will when His son died on the cross for us?"
Amongst those several signs is a pairing with producer/songwriter (and chart topping Curb Records artist) Jamie Slocum for the self-titled project's sessions. The duo's partnership came after a web of mutual musical friends put the two in touch and their time together ranged from songwriting to studio time to touring to a genuine friendship outside of professional pretenses.
Their partnership led to the album's numerous standouts, including the first single "Waiting On You," the powerful pop ballad "Love Unconditional," and a nod to Rich Mullins with a cover of "Growing Young."
But while Collins is pleased with the results, and excited about the upcoming release of his album, he is quick to point back to the reasons why he came to Nashville to begin with. "I just hope that I could touch all age groups and have a son hug his dad and mother hug her daughter no matter what they may be going through. And for those with circumstances beyond their control, know that there's always hope out there. I always tell people that there's much more to life than just getting through the day, but that you can experience true happiness and healing through a relationship with Christ. He has the power and ability to heal the wounds of brokenness, distance and despair. He's simply waiting on you."
Curt Collins will be released January 9, 2007 by FSS Records and Infinity Music Distribution (a division of Central South Distribution, Inc.). An aggressive promotional campaign will include a radio and retail tour, national television appearances and heavy touring, including numerous dates with Jamie Slocum. The single "Love Unconditional" will be released to radio in December.
