Name: Melanie Finley
Location: Springfield, IL
Band: New City Road

My name is Melanie Joy Finley, and everyone calls me Mel. I live in Peoria.. joined new city road last May.. I love these guys!! Great to be in a band with such humble musicians, who appreciate country music.. we have a blast!! And they treat me like family

How do you prepare/warmup to sing for a whole show?

My drive from Peoria is my warm up. I sing the whole way.

What is your drink of choice on a show night?

My drink of choice is water.. and I occasionally drink a shot of JD.

What’s your remedy when your voice is gone and the show is about to start?

Over the summer I had a horrible horrible sinus infection. I lost my voice during the show at the state fair. It was a horrible experience. I had to go to the hospital and get my sinuses drained. I hope I never experience this again. I now take Claritin daily.

What singers inspire you?

Martina McBride is my biggest inspiration in country music. About five years ago I save money and bought the same microphone that she uses to perform with LOL. I also adore Miranda Lambert. They are my two most influential artists.

What song has challenged you the most?

Hmmmmmmm.. i’d have to say the song that has challenged me the most in this band is anything we do that’s not country. Maybe honky-tonk woman. Michael Webb suggested I sing it.. now it’s one of my favorites that we do ? I love being a part of this band!! It’s my get away from reality. I look forward to every show ?