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Finalist Profile - Suzi Oravec

A family trip to Dollywood, Dolly Parton’s country-themed amusement part, was a turning point for a young Suzi.  It flipped the switch inside her head to take a stab at making music. “I saw Dolly Parton perform live with the band on stage for the first time. I've always been an ‘open book,’ the person that expresses their feelings and emotions. And as soon as I saw those qualities being portrayed into a song on stage, I was hooked.”

Coming from her hometown of Cleveland, Ohio to the country music hub of the universe, Nashville, Tennessee, Suzi, 19, brings a fresh dose of creativity to her music. “I've learned that everyone has something different to offer, and it's special in their own way. That's what makes music so beautiful to me, the different styles and beats.” Pulling inspiration from artists who were different in their own creative ways, such as Sheryl Crow, The Beatles and John Denver, Suzi says that she is drawn to musicians who are original and speak from their hearts. She isn’t into copying what is popular on the radio.

“The thing that makes my music different is the fact that my life experiences and observations are my main pull for creativity. I don't look at other people's style and songs and try to copy them.”

Her creativity has built itself into a large online following that roots for her every step of the way. Very much a friendly face and people person, Suzi is great about posting new videos and talking about her own life. Her hopes for her musical future mostly have to do with making a positive impact on others.