Singer-songwriter from Everett aims to build a regional following

  • By Jackson Holtz Herald Writer
  • Friday, March 4, 2011 12:01am
  • LifeEverett

Northwest singer-songwriter Annemarie Russell‘s newest album is called “100 Reasons.”

Her smooth voice, smart lyrics and passion for songs are just three reasons to check out the 35-year-old Everett native. Here’s a few more.

Russell started singing more than a dozen years ago in college, playing the Spokane coffeehouse circuit.

Over time, she has traveled the country, married, earned a master’s degree in English literature, and become the mother of two children, a daughter, 5, and a son, 2.

The experience has paid off with a mature sound, wiser lyrics and a grown-up approach to music making.

“I wanted my music to feel a little bit more mainstream,” she said.

She recently returned to her hometown, where her day job is teaching writing at Trinity Lutheran College. Her nighttime gig is making music.

Influenced by groups including the Indigo Girls and Brandi Carlile, she’s a strong proponent of women’s music that rocks.

“You’re always walking a line to sound special,” Russell said. “You don’t want your music to sound messy, but I hate that ‘Glee’-kind of canned music.”

The latest album, recorded on the Oregon coast, came out Tuesday. It’s a bit folk, a bit pop with some rock and jazz thrown in.

“The title, ‘100 Reasons,’ is my admonition that there is never a single answer to the question ‘Why?'” she said. “There are countless reasons for living, for writing and performing.”

Russell hopes to develop a regional following.

“It’s wonderful to be able to write and play music, and record and get enough response to keep doing it,” she said.

She performs at 8 p.m. Saturday at The Loft, 208 S. Washington Street, Suite 200, Seattle.

Tickets are $10 in advance, $15 at the door through www.brownpapertickets.com.

Jackson Holtz: 425-339-3447; jholtz@heraldnet.com.

Talk to us

> Give us your news tips.

> Send us a letter to the editor.

> More Herald contact information.

More in Life

Steven M. Falk / The Philadelphia Inquirer / Tribune News Service
James Taylor plays Sunday and Monday at Chateau Ste. Michelle in Woodinville.
A&E Calendar for May 22

Send calendar submissions for print and online to features@heraldnet.com. To ensure your… Continue reading

Former Herald writer Melissa Slager’s new book was 14-year project

The 520-page historical novel “Contests of Strength” covers the 1700 earthquake and tsunami on Makah lands.

Kyle Parker paddles his canoe along the Snohomish River next to Langus Riverfront Park on Thursday, May 8, 2025 in Everett, Washington. (Olivia Vanni / The Herald)
Tip to Tip: Kyle Parker begins his canoe journey across the country

The 24-year-old canoe fanatic started in Neah Bay and is making his way up the Skykomish River.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e plug-in hybrid compact luxury SUV, shown here in the European version (Provided by Mercedes-Benz).
2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e PHEV has a 54-mile range

The plug-in hybrid compact luxury SUV goes a class-leading distance in full electric mode.

The Mukilteo Boulevard Homer on Monday, May 12, 2025 in Everett, Washington. (Olivia Vanni / The Herald)
‘Homer Hedge’: A Simpsons meme takes root in Everett — D’oh!

Homer has been lurking in the bushes on West Mukilteo Boulevard since 2023. Stop by for a selfie.

RAV4 Hybrid XSE AWD photo provided by Toyota USA Newsroom
2025 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Provides 39 MPG And 566-Mile Range

Versatile And Functional Compact SUV A Family Pleaser

Auston James / Village Theatre
“Jersey Boys” plays at Village Theatre in Everett through May 25.
A&E Calendar for May 15

Send calendar submissions for print and online to features@heraldnet.com. To ensure your… Continue reading

Photo provided by Subaru U.S. Media Center
Subaru Adds Bronze And Onyx Trims to 2025 Ascent

Three-Row Family SUV Delivers Equal Parts Safety And Comfort

Photo courtesy of Historic Everett Theatre
The Elvis Challenge takes place Saturday at the Historic Everett Theatre.
A&E Calendar for May 8

Send calendar submissions to features@heraldnet.com. To ensure your item is seen by… Continue reading

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid SUV (Provided by Hyundai).
2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid evokes outdoor adventure

Boxy styling leaves lots of room for gear. A refined ride ensures comfort around town.

The 2025 Toyota Sienna minivan in the top-level Platinum grade (Provided by Toyota).
2025 Toyota Sienna maintains reputation for fuel efficiency

Every model in the minivan’s lineup has a hybrid powertrain.

An autumn-themed display at Wagner Jewelers in Marysville. (Olivia Vanni / The Herald)
Shine bright with Snohomish County’s top jewelry finds

Three dazzling shops where elegance, craft, and sparkle come together.

Support local journalism

If you value local news, make a gift now to support the trusted journalism you get in The Daily Herald. Donations processed in this system are not tax deductible.