Jill Andrews, the sultry singer-songwriter based in Knoxville, recently released a benefit record with proceeds going to the International Rescue Committee and aiding the victims of the January 12 earthquake in Haiti. Her lonesome melodies and lyrical honesty have a subtle way of commanding attention from critics and listeners alike. Her songs will warm you like a winter quilt - or chill you to the bone. Either way, when you hear Jill Andrews sing, you will remember it.

Jill has been on the road since 2003 since she teamed up with Sam Quinn to create the everybodyfields. The everybodyfields played Bonnaroo and Floydfest, honkytonks, bars, and theaters from coast to coast. Paste Magazine listed them in their "Best of What's Next" issue in September 2008, saying that they "straddle old and new, bitter and sweet, desperation and transcendence with an arresting command."

Jill is now taking that arresting command into her new solo project, but the themes will be familiar, and fans who've fallen head over heels for her material can expect that signature alt-country, roots-rock sound to deliver and grow.

Check out the Harmony Republic exclusive interview with Jill Andrews:

1. What inspires you to write music?
Everyday things I guess. Love mostly.

2. At what point did that inspiration translate to pursuing a career in your craft?

It became a career when I quit my full time job as a social worker and started driving around the country with a band that I co-founded, the everybodyfields.

3. What's it like going from playing in a band to a solo project? Do you find there is more pressure on you personally?

There is definitely a lot more pressure on me. I am totally in charge now. With that comes a lot of freedom and also a lot of responsibility. Sometimes I catch myself waiting for someone else to entertain the crowd and then realize it's all me now.

4. Has having a child affected the subject matter of your song writing? Do you feel differently towards touring these days?

It has to a certain extent. He shows up in a couple lines here and there. I definitely view things differently now. I am more thankful and the world makes more sense.

5. Tell us why you made the move to Knoxville from Johnson City? I've been a long time fan of the music scene in Knoxville, what is your perspective on calling it your home base?

I moved to Knoxville because I really felt like I needed a change. I had lived in Johnson City since I was eight years old. It is a great city. I wanted to live some place that was close and I had a lot of friends in Knoxville. Most of them were musicians. There is a very supportive scene here. When you play everybody comes out to cheer you on.

6. Tell us about releasing a record to benefit Haiti... what prompted you to do so?

I really wanted to help the people over in Haiti in someway. I knew that the best thing that I could do was give money. I have a friend that had just recorded some of my live shows so I thought it would be a perfect way to help others.

7. Are you involved with any other non-profits besides the International Rescue Committee?

No. We donated the money to IRC because we were really impressed by their work. They are taking people by the hand and helping them rebuild their country.

8. What advice can you give those who are interested in pursuing a career in the arts?

It is a beautiful life. My best advice is to first double major in Marketing and Business. It would have helped me a lot.

Jill's Website: JillAndrews.com
Help Jill Andrews Help Haiti: HelpHaiti.JillAndrews.com