Capitol Records Nashville recording artist Emily West doesn't mind wearing her heart on her sleeve or in her songs. The Iowa native is reaching out for fame again, released a duet with labelmate Keith Urban titled "Blue Sky," the second single from her upcoming self-titled debut album, which is set for release on August 10. The rising star is a force of nature, a charming and vivacious performer and her new single gives listeners a bit of insight into the personal turmoil she experienced.A passionate singer with a rich and distinctive voice, West is also a songwriter who co-wrote the heartbreaking "Blue Sky" with Gary Burr after her parents dissolved their marriage of 32 years. "That time period was devastating and so difficult to go through but I needed to let go and just write my pain out on paper," shares West. "I'm happy to have experienced the healing process of creating such a personal piece of art and only hope it touches someone else's life."
Penned by West and Gary Burr, the heartbreaking "Blue Sky" is a somber balled about a woman who is reluctantly pushing away an old flame when he returns to call. When he provides lengthy apologies and so-called proof of a now functioning conscience, she does not allow herself to grant him absolution, and instead, clings to the opulent memories of his mistakes and quick temper. Guided by inner wisdom, she is ready to step aside and live her own life and no longer act as a blue sky to brighten the dark days he brought upon himself.
Possessing a voice that simple proves to be a master class every time she sings, "Blue Sky" is a subtle, intimate ballad similar to the emotion-laden tracks that topped the charts in country music's yesteryear and does not rely on glitz or glamour. With her vocals, West truly shines. She is blessed with a deft power, impressive range, beautiful tone and above all - a natural ability to emote that makes her not only a singer but a storyteller like the great Reba McEntire and Jennifer Nettles.
Keith Urban gives a low-key performance and allows his young label mate to take center stage, only singing along to enhance the chorus with a few tender harmonies. The world needs more confident, independent minded singers like West and "Blue Sky" is already a contender for one of 2010's best singles. Hopefully, "Blue Sky" will allow West to breakthrough onto the difficult mainstream market and pave the way for brighter days in her career.
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