Jillian Cardarelli is a seventeen year old country singer. She has performed at many venues from festivals, country fairs, the John F. Kennedy Library to Fenway Park. Jillian and her band were the opening act for James Otto, recording artist and two-time Grammy nominee last July. They also opened for Dean Brody, a rising Nashville singer in September. Jillian co-wrote and recorded her first songs, "Daddy's Little Country Girl" and "Lights of Graceland", with acclaimed singer and songwriter, Don Campbell in Nashville. Jillian also worked and recorded with songwriter Robin Ball and producer Todd Bradley of Burning Blue Music in Nashville. In August of 2009, Jillian was the third place winner in WOKQ Radio's talent competition and in 2008, Jillian was a finalist in the Colgate Country Showdown in New Hampshire.
Jillian recorded her CD, "Black Velvet" at the age of fourteen. The album was produced by Marty Walsh of Berklee College of Music and was released in March of 2008. Formerly of Supertramp, Marty has recorded with Leann Rimes, Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton, among many others. "Black Velvet" includes a variety of musical genres and was featured on The River 92.5 FM Homegrown Showcase. Jillian's first CD, entitled "Christmas 2006", features both traditional and contemporary holiday songs. She has been a soloist at Fenway park for the Boston Red Sox, hockey and basketball games, tournaments, Little League opening ceremonies and other civic events. Jillian was the chosen performer at the John F. Kennedy Library and Museum for the 2009 Federal Awards Ceremony.
Jillian's new CD "Little Big Sky" was released on June 30th, 2010. This album features songs written by singer/songwriter Don Campbell as well as songs written by Susan Catteneo and Scarlet Keys, and Robin Ball of Nashville, TN.
"I met Jillian at a country fair in New Hampshire as the opener for my show. She has a comfort and sincerity when delivering a song on stage. And after talking with her, you can tell she has a real passion for music - something that should help take her a long way!"
~ Dean Brody
CCMA Award Winner for the song “Brothers” Single of the Year
"Every once in a while, a pure singing voice shows itself to those who love to listen... the kind of voice which stays in tune and remains timeless. Jillian Cardarelli's singing voice has all the important characteristics that will earn her many opportunities to perform on all of the great stages."
~ Don Campbell, singer/songwriter
Grand Prize Winner, True Value Country Showdown
Nashville, Tennessee
"When Jillian performs, she owns the stage and the audience. Her voice is angelic and pure and her moves are subtle and enticing. Then when you least expect it, she ruffs it up and everyone is up and dancin'!"
~ Carrie Coltrane
Producer/Songwriter/Singer
Portsmouth, New Hampshire
"Rarely do I find an artist that has the combination of excellent vocal skills and stage presence. Jillian Cardarelli has plenty of both."
~ Marty Walsh
Berklee College of Music, Boston, Massachusetts
Formerly of Supertramp
"I have never come across a young singer with Jillian's drive, spirit, talent, intelligence and beauty. At seventeen years of age, Jillian's ability in this country music genre is stunning. She holds the true spirit and sound in her heart... and allows it to flood through her voice."
~ Daniel Blake
NorthShore Vocal Studio
Beverly, Massachusetts
