Smile in My Heart

The kid-tested original songs on Smile in My Heart were inspired by Suzi’s family and the families in her life, and the traditional dance tunes feature lively parts from the banjo and fiddle, just right for grabbing a partner and taking to the dance floor. “I tried to include something for everyone in this release,” notes Suzi. “Seeing little faces light up and watching families dancing together brings me so much joy.” The album was produced by Marc Bazerman, and it features guest vocals by Mike Messer from the Dirty Sock Funtime Band as well as Chicago’s Little Miss Ann. “Gonna rise it up/gonna share it with you:” the country-pop style sing-along title track “Smile in My Heart” reflects the bright melodies and heartfelt lyrics in Suzi Shelton’s repertoire. Of the three music videos coming soon, the call-and-response song “Go, Fire Truck, Go,” (co-written by a 4 year old student from Suzi’s work in local NYC schools) is perhaps the most anthemic and energetic. “The fire truck song always gets the most requests at our live shows,” she says. “Cinnamon Bear” is a wild and happy and free bear, and the subject of another lively and colorful music video. Suzi’s cover of the Jonathan Richman classic “Ice Cream Man” will get kids clamoring for icy treats. Fans will recognize the song “Tomboy in a Princess Dress,” which gained national kudos and radio play when it was released on Suzi’s 2011 EP by the same name.