Austin Vida: Vicci Martinez stays true to herself

Pint-sized Vicci Martinez stepped onto the Momo's stage with just her acoustic guitar. Wearing blue jeans and her Chucks, she belted out several of her gritty folk songs to an intimate audience.

Martinez is only 25 years old and her powerful voice has given her many opportunities since she sang her first note at the age of 12. Appearing on Star Search and becoming a regional finalist for the first season of American Idol, she has received praise and recognition from celebrities like Wynonna Judd and Kathy Najimy (King of the Hill, Sister Act).

She doesn't have any label support though, as she's not willing to compromise who she is to get herself to the next level. However, she is proof that musicians don't always need the backing of a label because she's opened for various musical legends, such as Sting, Etta James and Jonny Lang.

Martinez sat down with me before her set at Momo's while she reflected on her musical career, shared what motivated her to become a singer and why she loves performing in Austin.

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Vicci Martinez live at Momo's. Look I got a shout out!