Small-Town Singer Gets Big Chance to Help Others

State College’s own Hannah Richardson has had the opportunity to perform live more than 500 times across the country in places as big as the Apollo Theater, but her latest project, “Chasing Rainbows,” means more to her than anything she’s done before. 

It’s the first album Richardson has produced in Nashville — the holy grail for country music.

“(It’s) pretty amazing for a small-town girl in Pennsylvania,” she said. This small-town girl is only 16 years old, and has had some big-town success so far.

She’s performed in Los Angeles, Washington, D.C., Chicago and New York City — all while producing original music and releasing albums over the past few years. Set to be released Monday, Sept. 18, Richardson said the album showcases mandolins, fiddles and “of course, some epic electric guitars from studio musicians.”

Music isn’t her only passion, though. As the face of Gomee Girl, a company invested in improving the self-esteem of young girls, she’s hoping to be a role model in addition to a musician.

“If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that girls don’t think they are enough. We girls constantly strive for the unattainable and fail miserably.”

The namesake song from her new album, also titled “Chasing Rainbows,” echoes her thoughts on the current state of young girls in America. In the melancholy ode to girls who think they should have something they don’t or be someone they’re not, Richardson makes it clear in this song that what’s pretty from a distance isn’t always so.

“How can we possibly look like the models who don’t even look like themselves? This is why I do what I do. I truly believe I can make a difference by being a role model (for girls).”

Richardson said her goal is to make other people feel like rock stars when they listen to her music. More information can be found on her website, www.hannahrichardson.com, or on her YouTube page.

There will be an official CD release party Saturday, Sept. 23, at Tussey Mountain from 1 to 3 p.m. Those interested in attending can RSVP at www.hannahrichardson.com/rsvp for a concert, food, CD signing and more.