By Jackie Turner

Keri Noble is one of today’s most passionate singers and songwriters.

Whether her songs are about bad break ups, new beginnings, or even alcohol, she sings with her entire heart and soul.

While she sang and played the piano at O’Connell’s coffee shop Tuesday night, she created a comfortable atmosphere for students to relax and enjoy her music.

Noble played many new songs and a few oldies which the audience knew well. She involved the audience by explaining what her songs were about.

I talked with Noble, who is releasing her third album this spring, before her performance to learn more about her personally. She is one of the most down-to-earth people I have ever met.

This was her third time playing at St. Ben’s and St. John’s. Noble found CSB/SJU through her family friends, whose daughter Kelsey graduated from here two years ago.

Noble started in the music business when she was 18 years old. She has been singing her entire life, but after high school she began writing her own songs and performing them in local coffee shops.

She said she fell in love with music, but it was not an easy ride. She moved to Minneapolis and took every opportunity that came at her to perform. Eventually, people fell in love with her music, which helped her get a record deal.

Noble has advice for anyone who wants to enter the music business.

“Do not let the record companies steal your soul,” she said. “It is a tricky business, but if you follow your heart and keep your passion, it will come naturally.”

Her favorite part about her job is performing live and being with her band. She said they are one big happy family.

Noble will start a tour in Japan in November, which she is extremely excited about. She is also playing in a Christmas concert in Minneapolis. There are two showings, but the first one is already sold out. Noble is a passionate musician who CSB/SJU has been very fortunate to host over the past three years.

Filed under: Music, Variety by Justin Roth