There’s a pose that concludes every yoga practice called “savasana,” which translates literally to “corpse pose.” It’s a moment of stillness for the mind and the body. Though simple in nature, this pose can feel quite complex if approached with a brain swirling with noise and anxiety. Chatter about work stress, political disruptions, failed relationships, and overall world uncertainties - monsters with no business living there and command undeserved space. But in savasana, if you can embrace the stillness for even a moment, your mind may be treated to a brief respite. Peace. A tiny crack of light. For Carrie Welling, a new record was born out of that crack.
Fans have loved Welling’s music from its inception, and it’s clear why. Her bold, sultry voice, reminiscent of Sheryl Crow’s grit, Tom Petty’s pen, and Stevie Nicks’ heart, is upstaged only by the genuine love and connection this natural performer has with her fans on and off stage.
Welling’s latest album, Crack in the Chaos, invites listeners on a journey to search for the joy in the turmoil, a testament to the belief that even in the darkest times, there is always a glimmer of light to guide us. Each track is a reminder that the struggle itself is a part of that journey. In each “crack” we find confidence and hope - the energy that drives us.
Melodies rich in Americana pop blend seamlessly with her singer-songwriter roots and empowered, honest lyrics. But while this new collection of songs maintain Welling’s signature raw vulnerability and authenticity - qualities that are essential to her creative process - fans will certainly take note of a more mature and evolved sound.
Welling credits this transformation to Nashville producer Bobby Holland. Recorded at Pentavrit Studio and featuring collaborations with Nashville’s top-tier musicians (including co-writers Brad Sample, Craig Wilson, Eric Erdman, Donny Brewer, and vocalist Eric Holljes of Delta Rae), Crack in the Chaos is imbued with a sense of power and sophistication.
The album found its own light in the support of a successful Kickstarter campaign and Welling’s loyal Patreon community, which she fondly calls her “Wellos”. Over the past four years, her Wellos have grown significantly, providing both financial support and an emotional anchor during challenging times. From opening their homes to host intimate, beautiful house concerts to extending their hospitality throughout their network, her Wellos have transcended the role of fans and become true, deeply cherished friends.
That’s not to say this journey has been without its challenges.
“The pandemic presented a unique set of obstacles that forced me to adapt and grow in unexpected ways,” Welling shares. “Growing older and navigating these turbulent times taught me invaluable lessons about resilience and self-worth. I've come to embrace who I am and understand that I am capable of achieving what I truly deserve, even if it’s hard to see sometimes.”
Fans are not the only ones who have seen Carrie for the brilliant artist she is. From touring with Delta Rae, Wyn Starks, Carbon Leaf, David Cook and Bowen Young to singing on the Melissa Etheridge Cruise and Sail Across the Sun Cruise with Train, Welling’s voice shines boldly and brightly the moment she takes the stage. Whether performing in The Netherlands and Germany, headlining Norwegian Cruises and the Meeting of the Minds Festival, or dazzling crowds at the Songwriter Island Showcase in Isla Mujeres, Mexico, Carrie Welling shows no signs of stopping.
A Crack in the Chaos may have been born out of a glimmer of light, but Welling has done so much more that reflect on its radiance. She’s become it.
