Vocalist Andrea Emmes had everything going for her: she was singing nightly on the Las Vegas strip as one-third of the popular all-girl group “GG Girls” and still making it out to LA to work as a studio singer; previously she had performed as “Ariel” at Disneyworld, and worked as a Production Assistant on the hit TV show “Making the Band: O-Town.” However, this success was not meant to last. In 2006, Andrea was involved in an accident and sprained an ankle. She was diagnosed with RSD, a pain disorder that causes the body’s nerves to misfire and send a deluge of pain signals throughout the body. Suddenlyafter a seemingly innocent injuryAndrea went from singing seven nights a week, to constant, crippling pain: at times even unable to walk. As a result, Andrea was forced to slow downand reconsider everything about herself: personally, professionally and spiritually. Andrea, who was raised in the church, found herself once again turning to the Lord. She began soul-searchingand finding herself waking up at 2 or 3 AM (often with inspiration for new songs.) It was at this point that Andrea realized she needed to stop singing for herself, and begin singing for the Lord. And from that moment on, everything else fell into place Andrea began writing constantly, revisiting a poem she had written in college, “Father.” She submitted the track to a small radio station in Arkansas, who began giving it some airplay. That was all the motivation she needed: reinvigorated by her connection with the Lord, Andrea set off on writing a full album and truly pursuing her dream of becoming a recording artist. She teamed up with some amazing musiciansincluding Richard Smith, Maia Rodriguez and Chris Mendezall “beautiful and amazing talents” according to Emmes. And with their support, Andrea’s music began garnering serious attention; receiving regular airplay at KPJN 101.1 LPFM, Shine Radio 1220AM, as well as internet radio stations Celebrate Radio, Crazed Praise Radio, Spiritco1.com, SongPlanet.com radio, Youth United, Whitedove Radio, and Christian Rocker.comas well reaching 1 on both MusicForte.com and MusicGorilla.com. Even over the airwaves (or internet), Andrea’s music reaches people on both a universal and intimate level. When she sings, “You’re beautifully broken, perfectly made; With all that you’re given, how can you complain? For I know His purpose, is given to you; With words from His Spirit, Who resides in you?” it sums up her experienceand reaches something we can all relate to. And this glorious message is made all the more convincing by her wonderful voice. It has a beautiful, lyrical soprano qualitybut sounds equally good digging in on flat-out rockers; outwardly warm, it also has an edgy undercurrent that hints at some of the tribulations she has been through. Currently, Andrea has finished her debut CD titled, I’m On My Way, which will be included nationwide throughout all Christian stores through Integrated Industries’ in-store digital station in Fall 2008. Also, a mainstream song she wrote, “Are You Ready,” will be featured on the soundtrack of an upcoming independent film, China Dolls. She also plans on touring throughout New England, starting at Abundant Life Assemblies of God Church in Swansea, MAnot surprisingly, her home church as a child. She will partner with the RSD Foundation and donate some of the proceeds to the foundation, generating awareness for this condition, in the process. Currently, she is touring local churches in Southern California with Kenny Vaugh, for his “His Gifts from God” tour as Special Guest Artist. Also in the works for Spring 2008 is a possible opening slot for the Harold Steele Band. Now that her CD is completed, Andrea will be pushing herself hard to gig in support of the recording. And although things might not have turned out exactly as Andrea Emmes had planned, the events of her life have opened up other doors. As Andrea states, “Because of this challenge, my greatest dream is coming true: I have been able to use my gifts for God’s purpose.” As listeners, we’re just glad that we are along for this wonderful, inspiring rideand we’ll be with her as she’s on her way.