Janine Wilson - Save Me From Myself (2005)

Who would have thought that someone who suffered from paralyzing stage fright would go on to wow audiences with her live performances, put out a recording, and take home a trio of music awards and more than half a dozen award nominations? Certainly not Janine Wilson's instructor at Ohio State University. The teacher gave Wilson a big red "F" for her final grade in a singing class that she took to fulfill the requirements of a major in music. But this is one instance where teacher was definitely off the mark. Wilson persevered, overcame her stage fright, and became a lively and welcome addition to the blues scene in Washington, D.C. WAMA, the Washington Area Music Association, honored her in 2001 with awards in the categories of Best Debut Recording, Best Blues Album, and Best Blues Female Vocalist. Wilson shared the honor of Best Debut Recording that year with Carey Colvin in a tie. WAMA also honored Wilson with nominations for Best Female Vocalist in Traditional R&B and Blues and Roots for six consecutive years. Her band snagged nominations for two years running in the category of Best Duo/Group. Wilson is a regular performer during Baltimore's Night of 100 Elvises and the city's blues festival. She has appeared on stages in New Orleans, New York, San Francisco, and Austin, and has worked with a list of musical artists that includes Marcia Ball, Coco Montoya, Little Charlie & the Nightcats, Omar & the Howlers, Angela Strehli, Barrence Whitfield & the Savages, Danny Gatton, John Mooney, and Lou Ann Barton. She also contributed to volumes two through four in a series of CDs titled A Holiday Feast. ~ Linda Seida