Joanna Smith Named One Of Billboard’s ‘Artists To Watch In 2011′

Written by SLN Staff Writer
Joanna Smith Named One Of Billboard’s ‘Artists To Watch In 2011′

(Joanna Smith spends time with a patient at St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital earlier this week)

Columbia Nashville newcomer Joanna Smith has been named one of Billboard Magazine's “Artists To Watch in 2011.” In the current issue, out now, the feature spotlights some of this year's most promising acts across all music genres. Joanna is one of two new country artists selected, and Billboard places her in the company of country music icons by saying: “With its playful spirit and thoughtful observations on rural life, Georgia-born singer/songwriter Joanna Smith’s music evokes both Dolly Parton and Merle Haggard.”

But the Georgia native has not just caught the attention of Billboard Magazine. Joanna has also been named “One To Watch in 2011″ by Roughstock.com and one of the “New Faces On The Music Scene” by Variety Magazine.

Joanna is already off to a busy start this year. She recently joined Columbia label-mate Josh Thompson on the “Cold Beers and Reindeers Tour,” and spent last week visiting with the patients at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (pictured above) to help kick-off the annual Country Cares for St. Jude Kids radiothon season.

For more info on Joanna, be sure to check out www.joannasmithofficial.com. Fans can expect to hear new music from Joanna Smith on the country airwaves in the next few weeks.