Big Things Happening for Local Singer-Songwriter

From being named runner-up in Murrieta’s city song contest last June to recently being honored with a “40 Under Forty” award by the Murrieta Chamber of Commerce, singer-songwriter Joanna Pearl has become a local celebrity.

Now, the Lake Elsinore resident has plans to build her fan base beyond the Inland Empire.

In April, Pearl plans to announce details about the release of her first EP and tour. With the assistance of the OC Hit Factory, an independent label, management company and songwriting camp based in Orange County, Pearl is set to release her first EP in late summer or early fall, which will coincide with her first summer tour at West Coast fairs and private venues.

“It’s uncharted territory for me. I’ve never gone on the road,” said Pearl, who describes her music as a mix between R&B, soul and pop. “Everything is independent, so it’s going to be really awesome!”

Pearl, who has worked on material for her EP for more than two years, said she is excited to share her music with more people. 

“Singing is a very powerful tool,” she said. “It’s this way to communicate with people on a level you just can’t sit and talk to people about. It creates this emotion. It’s just a really cool feeling to be able to do that and having people like it.”

A professional singer for about three years, Pearl said she has always used challenges in her life as inspiration for her music.

“Music has always been the outlet that I’ve gravitated toward,” she said. “It’s been the best therapy, I think.”

Pearl was inspired to write one of her original songs, “Whispers in the Wind,” after her grandmother lost her battle to breast cancer. It was recently announced that “Whispers in the Wind” will be featured in the movie Murphy, a short comedy film that is loosely based on Murphy’s Law. A release date has not yet been determined for the film, which is currently in production.

Pearl also draws inspiration from her health struggles. The singer-songwriter was diagnosed with a pituitary tumor in 2006, and has to take medication to maintain normal hormone levels.

“It’s definitely a daily challenge, but that’s why I think those obstacles have strengthened me and helped me get more in touch with my feelings, which I’ve put in my music and have been able to touch a lot of people,” Pearl said. “I’m thankful for it, but it is a struggle.”

In addition to creating music, Pearl said she also likes to dedicate her time to giving back to the community.

“Whispers in the Wind” was used to raise funds for Ribbons & Pearls, her team for the Inland Empire’s 2012 Susan G. Komen for the Cure event. And for the second consecutive year, Pearl was invited to perform at Reality Rally, a fundraiser that will take place April 5-7 to benefit Michelle’s Place, a breast cancer resource center in Temecula.

“For an independent artist there’s so many more opportunities now, but overall, I just want my music to get out there and help others,” Pearl said. “Music has always helped me, and I’m hoping my music does that for other people.”

To learn more about Pearl, visit Joannapearl.com.