Carrie Cunningham: Nashville’s Female Country Music Chameleon

A Versatile Nashville Singer-Songwriter Breaking Boundaries

Described as a "musical chameleon" (Zetland Country, UK), Carrie Cunningham is a versatile Nashville-based country singer-songwriter who brings a fresh, dynamic edge to the country music scene. Like Kacey Musgraves, who has successfully fused traditional country with modern influences, Carrie pushes boundaries with her unique sound. “I love blending genres because life isn’t just one thing—it’s vibrant, colorful, and full of surprises. That’s how I want my music to feel.”

Her latest single, “Habit,” co-written with Riley Roth and Patrick Dodge, embodies this “genre-blending” approach, combining country and disco influences to create an infectious track that leaves listeners dancing and singing along. The song highlights Carrie’s talent for creating music that stays with you long after the melody ends. Before “Habit,” she released the fun and romantic “Just Like,” co-written with Warner Chappell artist Riley Roth.  This was the beginning of her blending country and disco, to create a perfect country love song with a sweet message and danceable groove, making it a favorite for weddings.

A musical awakening

and Early Influences

Carrie still remembers the night music first called her name. Lying in bed as a child, she was captivated by the cool groove of the bass and the eerie keys in Hall & Oates' hit song “Maneater.” As she listened to Daryl Hall’s voice, she imagined a woman transforming into a tiger—a powerful image that fueled her imagination. Growing up in a difficult environment marked by abuse, neglect, and time in foster care, music became her refuge. “Music was my escape growing up. It was the one place where I could create my own world, and the radio became my best friend at night.”

Carrie also found inspiration in the showmanship of Barbara Mandrell and the Mandrell Sisters. Watching their performances religiously, she was captivated by their ability to connect with audiences through singing, dancing, and storytelling. Carrie knew then that she was destined for the stage.


 

Hear music

From Choir to country stages

To escape the harsh realities of her home life, Carrie immersed herself in music by joining as many choirs as possible. Her dedication earned her a place with the Spokane Symphony Chorale for five years. She pursued a degree in Voice & Composition in college, and later, after years of performing as a regional Northwest entertainer, she returned to school to study Audio Production.

Carrie’s hard work and passion for learning led her to sign with the independent label Divulge Records. It was during this time that she partnered with the Vanished Children’s Alliance to create a poignant music video for her song “Smile Again.” 

This song was born out of a heartbreaking story that gripped the nation. The song was inspired by the tragic case of Shasta Groene, a young girl who survived a horrific kidnapping that claimed the lives of her mother and family members. Deeply moved by the news and the resilience Shasta displayed, Carrie wrote “Smile Again” as a tribute to the little girl’s strength and a poignant reminder of love’s enduring presence. “All I could think about was how Shasta’s mother was watching over her from heaven, offering guidance and protection, so I channeled that emotion.”  With its heartfelt lyrics and tender melody, “Smile Again” conveys a powerful message of hope, healing, and the enduring bond between a parent and child, even in the face of unimaginable tragedy.

Award-Winning Releases & Accomplishments

Carrie’s dedication to her craft has led to numerous accolades. She captured the title at the FOE Eagle’s 100th Year National Talent Competition and saw her EP “Let’s Dance” recognized as one of the Top 10 Albums of 2017 by Women of Country Music. Her “Secrets” EP reached #1 on the AirPlay Direct Country/Alt Albums chart, while four of her singles topped international charts, earning her loyal fans worldwide. In 2021,her album, “Showgirl,” was released single-by-single,and became a hit album amongst listeners, landing Carrie on nearly 100 playlists worldwide.  Carrie currently has over half a million streams to date.


 

A Multifaceted Talent: Beyond Performing

Carrie’s talents extend far beyond performing and songwriting. She has volunteered for many worthy organizations such as Big Brothers Big Sisters, CASA, The Special Olympics.Carrie is also a 3rd-generation auctioneer, specializing in benefit auctions. Her unique ability to create custom songs tailored to each event makes her fundraising efforts truly unforgettable. Blending music and philanthropy, she has helped raise hundreds of thousands of dollars for worthy charities such as Miracle for Kids, International City Theatre, National Charity League and more. Whether through a heartfelt melody or rallying donors during a live auction, Carrie brings an unmatched level of passion and creativity to every event.

In addition to her auctioneering, Carrie is a passionate live sound engineer and music publisher. Never one to shy away from learning something new, she has worked behind the scenes with national artists like Joan Jett, Lorrie Morgan, Grand Funk Railroad and opened for acts like Charlie Daniels, James Otto, Kacey Musgraves, Vince Gill and Crystal Gayle. Her music has also been featured as theme songs in podcasts such as “Living Single”, “Medi-Cast Medical” and “The Lisa Williams Show.”


 

Smile Again Video

A Passion for the Stage and Giving Back

Carrie’s love for live performance shines through in every show, whether she’s captivating a small intimate venue or energizing a festival crowd. She was the only indie artist to perform at Watershed, the largest Northwest Country Music Festival, where her dynamic stage presence stood out among major acts. Over her career, Carrie has graced more than 1,000 stages, sharing the spotlight with artists like Kacey Musgraves, Jake Owen, Diamond Rio, and Andy Griggs. “There’s nothing like being on stage and seeing a crowd connect with your songs. That moment when the music speaks for both of us—that’s pure magic.”

Carrie’s compassion extends beyond music. She actively supports causes like Big Brothers Big Sisters, The Special Olympics, and Vanished Children’s Alliance. Combining her music and auctioneering skills, she creates unforgettable benefit events, showcasing her commitment to making a difference.

As Carrie continues her journey, she remains a shining example of the power of music to inspire, heal, and transform. Whether connecting with fans through her heartfelt lyrics, lending her voice to important causes, or pushing artistic boundaries, Carrie brings a unique blend of passion, resilience, and artistry to everything she does.