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“Show the world you’re a country girl…” Those are just a few of the mighty lyrics from rising country singer Rissi Palmer’s hit song “Country Girl.” So the title sounds like any other country western song, so why is Rissi making headlines? Because Rissi Palmer is not your typical or stereotypical country singer! This beautiful, young female sensation has shown America what a strong voice and love for country music and her roots she has - even though she is black.

In the beginning of her career, Rissi was offered a pop label where she would possibly be more accepted and popular, but she just could not go against her desire to sing country. You see, Rissi’s mother listened to a lot music and her Patsy Cline records were among Rissi’s favorites. Music touched Rissi and she began singing in the choir. When her family moved to St Louis she was still young and was exposed to even more types of music.

She started entering talent contests and showing off her talents. It’s true Rissi liked Prince and Michael Jackson, but whose music and songs did she choose to sing at the auditions and contests? Leann Rimes and Shania Twain! Rissi Palmer is not just a talented singer. She also writes music and plays the guitar. At age 20 she joined Song Planet in Nashville where she wrote lyrics with many of the best country writers there are. In Nashville, Rissi also sang in country bars.