Casey Urwin - 2010 Lewis Agency Red Carpet Premiere - SIR Studios, New York City
Posted by Vanessa Willoughby on 10.13.2010
Christian pop singer Casey Urwin holds a showcase at New York City's SIR Studios, putting her skills as Miss Oklahoma to good use.
After watching her short showcase, it’s not hard to believe that Christian pop singer Casey Urwin won Miss Oklahoma in 2002. Animated, bubbly, and fresh-faced, Urwin is the type of performer that believes the best way to win the heart of her audience is through her smile.
Born in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, Urwin’s family moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma in 1995. Urwin attended Oral Roberts University, which proved to provide the first steps to following a musical career path. Although she obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Mass Media Communication, it seemed that Urwin was just as passionate about music. During her time at ORU, she was a member of the ORU Chamber Sisters and Jazz Ensemble, which toured in England, Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.
Music wasn’t her only interest. Urwin’s extracurricular activities included participating and winning the 2002 title of Miss Oklahoma. After, Urwin competed in the 2003 Miss America pageant and won 2nd Runner-Up. Although she didn’t win the crown, she didn’t go home empty-handed. Urwin received the Eleanor Andrews Talent Award. Not surprisingly, she found a way to include music into her official duties as Miss Oklahoma. Urwin served as the spokesperson for VH1’s Save the Music Foundation, in addition to America Cares for Children.
In 2005, Urwin moved to Texas with her husband, Marty Urwin. The couple not only shared the same faith, but a sincere devotion to music. Thus, the couple was able to successfully combine the devotion to their faith with their appreciation of music. The pair was a part of the recording of the Faith Family Church’s first album, “All Debts Paid.”
When taking the stage at the Lewis Agency’s Red Carpet Premiere, Urwin’s poise and humility seemed to reflect her training as Miss Oklahoma. Dressed in a sleek black ensemble and matching black heels, Urwin seemed at ease behind the microphone. Guided by musical director Corey Henry, Urwin’s backup band provided solid rhythm, never faltering with either precision or sound.
“Wave Your Banner,” also the title of Urwin’s debut album, kicked off her set. Although her demeanor showcased a seasoned performer, her initial vocals revealed shaky nerves. Nevertheless, Urwin forged ahead, making sure to accent her performance with frequent hand gestures. As the song progressed, Urwin seemed to grow more comfortable with her environment and trusting of her vocal abilities. Truthfully, “Wave Your Banner” may not have the most original lyrics, but Urwin’s delivery was so sincere that one couldn't help but appreciate her efforts.
“Wave Your Banner” quickly progressed into “Worship the King.” Unlike “Wave Your Banner,” Urwin’s second song was slower in tempo. The keyboard was a much more prominent instrument. Urwin hadn’t lost her Miss Oklahoma charm, making sure to maintain steady eye contact with the audience. Again, Urwin’s vocals seemed stronger towards the end of the song, rather than the beginning.
For her final song, “Heaven,” Urwin’s soft vocals were initially overpowered by the band. However, Urwin delivered her song with the same earnestness as witnessed throughout her performance. Although Urwin may not have the vocal prowess as such octave-conquering divas like Mariah Carey or Christina Aguilera, her vocal range is surprisingly expansive.
Certainly, Urwin's vocals are not only easy on the ears, but promising.
The 411: With her debut album about to released via Bandage Man Group, Casey Urwin clearly utilizes her past experience in the pageant world as the foundation for her performance persona. Both her stage presence and her vocal abilities showcase an inherent sense of humility and poise.
