Julia Burton   -  Biography

Born in Nashville and raised in West Virginia, Julia Burton recalls her memories of riding in the car on the way to school singing along with the Judds, Conway Twitty and Loretta Lynn. As her love of music grew, her musical influences began gravitating toward Alabama, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Tom Petty and Bonnie Raitt. Beginning at age 8, Burton entered various talent competitions, winning her first one with a performance of Lee Greenwood's "God Bless the USA." She joined her high school choir and sang every chance she got at church, local fairs, festivals and, eventually, the stage at the Miss America pageant. In addition to performing throughout high school and college, Burton held positions at Wal-Mart and as a general laborer for the West Virginia Department of Highways. In 2004, Burton's state and national volunteerism, vocal talent and good looks earned her the title of Miss West Virginia. During this time, she attended West Virginia University, where she obtained a degree in public relations. Her dedication and concern for children opened the door for her to become a national spokesperson for the Boys & Girls Clubs of America. Burton's move to Nashville allowed her to grow as an artist and develop her honky-tonk wings in the backroom of legendary Tootsie's Orchid Lounge on Nashville's Lower Broadway. For eight months, she performed three nights a week -- for four hours a night -- to a rowdy country crowd. Her tenure at Tootsie's helped her build a team of music industry veterans to promote and nurture her career. She has since performed at shows featuring Wynonna, Jo Dee Messina, the Commodores and Kool & the Gang. Signed to Emerald River Records, her first single, "What a Woman Wants," was released to radio in January 2009. Burton's debut album is scheduled for release in June 2009.