Texas singer/songwriter Shelley Laine first developed her love of music via her parents, whose wide-ranging listening tastes (classical, jazz, country, gospel, blues, rock) left an impression on her early on. By the age of 16, Laine was writing her own songs and performing at local fairs and charity events (including opening for Lisa Loeb at a charity concert). A CD that Laine had issued herself found its way into the hands of veteran promotions/marketing executive Ed Spacek (whose client list includes Loretta Lynn, Willie Nelson, the Dixie Chicks, and LeAnn Rimes, among others), which led to a recording contract with Palo-Duro Records. Laine's debut album, Skipping Stones, followed in 2001, and showcased the young singer's penchant for penning memorable country-pop tunes. ~ Greg Prato