Rhonda Towns: A Voice of Grace, Country, and Courage
by Rick Rome
Fifteen years ago, when Discover The Phoenix Region Magazine released its first issue, the face gracing our debut cover embodied promise, perseverance, and passion—Rhonda Towns.
She was carving her path in the country music scene, her unmistakable voice blending gospel roots, southern tradition, and heartfelt storytelling. Today, as we celebrate her journey, as well as our magazine’s 15-year milestone, we reflect on her remarkable progress, the barriers she’s broken, as well as the enduring hope her music inspires.
Roots in Faith and Song
Rhonda Towns was born in Gary, Indiana, as the daughter of Reverend James Edward Towns and Eula Towns, growing up immersed in faith, family, and music. Singing in church from the age of 4, young Rhonda quickly became known for her clear, soulful voice. Her earliest performances, in the sanctuary pews, revealed the powerful connection between music, faith, and the human spirit.
As a child, nicknamed “Sissy,” she entertained classmates with gospel tunes and talent show performances, eventually being invited to appear regularly on a regional country music TV show. Though her parents declined the opportunity in favor of education, the foundation had been set: music was her calling.
The Valley’s own country music artist, Rhonda Towns, is a success story and inspiration for people trying to take their talent to the worldwide stage…her heart is in Phoenix. We know this because of her annual concerts to support foundations dear to her: the founding local chapter of Make-A-Wish Foundation of Arizona, and Save the Family Foundation of Arizona.
In college, she pursued vocal training and joined the university gospel choir, deepening her natural gift. Her influences ranged widely—Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston, Patsy Cline, Reba McEntire, Loretta Lynn, and Charley Pride among them—but perhaps the most powerful influence was her mother, whose unwavering love and encouragement remained the compass for her journey.
Reba has such strength and power in her voice. Patsy was soulful, bluesy, and had a unique country sound…Loretta Lynn has an authentic sweet country voice I truly believe is an extension of her personality…my mother is my earthly spiritual partner. She has guided me through almost every challenge in my life and in the pursuit of my dreams.”
Stepping onto the National Stage
Rhonda’s first national spotlight came in 1994 with a performance on Ed McMahon’s Star Search. For many, this would have been the pinnacle. For Rhonda, it was just the beginning. Nashville soon beckoned, and with it came the challenge of finding her place in a genre that had not always been welcoming to women of color.
Rhonda immediately started establishing herself within the country music community in Nashville as a country music artist after appearing on Ed McMahon’s Star Search. She soon attracted the attention of producer Norro Wilson (Kenny Chesney/Reba McEntire/Sara Evans/Shania Twain) after sending in a demo of cover tunes to the A&R Department of Mercury Records.”
In an almost cinematic moment, she auditioned for Wilson without a demo tape, instead pulling out a karaoke machine and singing Lorrie Morgan’s “A Picture of Me Without You.” Wilson was so moved that he agreed to produce tracks for her—songs that would become the backbone of her early career, including “Slow Rain” and “Plenty More Love.”
Shannon Finnegan set up a meeting for me with Norro Wilson…my husband immediately said, ‘Wait a minute, we flew all the way from Phoenix, Arizona, she’s going to sing for you right now!’ So he took the karaoke box out of the suitcase, set it up and I performed for Norro…he decided that he would produce the first four songs on me including ‘Slow Rain.’”
From there, Rhonda earned standing ovations at Nashville’s Douglas Corner, Caffe Milano, and Bluebird Cafe, launched her own independent label, Dawn Records, and then began touring internationally. Her performances in Zurich, Switzerland, and on BET’s Live From L.A. introduced new audiences to her authentic sound, while events like the First Annual Black Country Music Show in Atlanta positioned her as both an artist and a trailblazer.
In 2000 Rhonda made her debut appearance in Zurich as a headliner at the 16th Annual International Concert of Switzerland, followed by her national appearance and performance on the BET Network. This officially made her the first female African American Country Music Artist to debut in Switzerland and the BET Network.
A Voice All Her Own
When Rhonda released her debut album, I Wanna Be Loved By You (2006), she wasn’t just adding another record to the crowded Nashville market. She was making a statement—that
her voice belonged not on the margins but at the center of country music. Produced by legends Harold Shedd, Norro Wilson, and Jim Cotton, the album delivered radio-ready singles like “Somethin’ Better” and the title track.
Rhonda attracted the attention of the late Jim Cotton…Jim Cotton and Harold Shedd produced five songs together for Rhonda before Cotton died. Inspired by Martina McBride, she finished the album a cappella with ‘The Lord’s Prayer.’ Rhonda officially launched Dawn Records from her house in Arizona.”
Listeners and critics alike were drawn not only to the power of her voice but also to its purity. Rhonda sang country music not as an outsider but as someone whose life, faith, and roots made the stories ring true. She wasn’t trying to sound country—she was country.
Trials, Transformation, and Triumph
After releasing her first album, Rhonda faced personal challenges, including a painful divorce, that led her to step away from recording for a time. Yet true to her spirit, she never abandoned music.
Her comeback single, Walking in Your Wonderful Light, released in 2021, was more than just a return to the airwaves—it was a testament to resilience. Written by Teddy Hayes and co-produced by Rhonda Towns and the legendary engineer Billy Sherrill, the song captured her faith-driven perseverance and resonated deeply with fans. Its uplifting message placed it on gospel and inspirational charts, reintroducing Rhonda to listeners who had been waiting patiently for her return.
Fifteen Years After Our First Cover
For us at Discover The Phoenix Region Magazine, Rhonda Towns holds a special place in our history. When we chose her for our very first cover, it was not only because of her talent but also because of what she represented: courage, authenticity, and possibility. In many ways, Rhonda’s journey mirrors the story of Phoenix itself—a city that has grown, transformed, and persevered through challenges while always holding onto its identity.
Her determination, faith, and drive have inspired and attracted many others of color to pursue music careers in the country music industry…All the hard work of launching Dawn Records and releasing her debut singles proved to be challenging but delivered a ground-breaking milestone in the genre of country music.”
Now, fifteen years later, we look at Rhonda’s life and see not just an artist, but a pioneer who continues to inspire. She stands as proof that dreams forged in faith and nurtured with perseverance can withstand every storm.
Legacy and Inspiration
In a genre where diversity has too often been the exception, Rhonda Towns has carved a space for herself and others who follow. She reminds us that country music is not defined by one look or one story—it is a tapestry of voices, traditions, and truths.
Her journey from Alabama church pews to international stages tells us that authenticity always resonates, and that barriers can indeed be broken. Beyond the music, Rhonda has consistently used her platform to uplift others through charity concerts and mentorship.
Looking Ahead
As Rhonda continues to record and perform, there is a sense that her best work may still be ahead. Her six-track EP, hinted at during the release of Walking in Your Wonderful Light, promises to showcase her ability to weave gospel inspiration with country tradition. With every note, she continues to carry forward the dream that first took root in an Alabama church, nurtured by her mother’s love and strengthened by her own passion and determination.
For those of us who have followed her since that first cover story, it feels like watching a circle complete itself: an artist who began with promise now stands in the fullness of her voice and purpose.
Fifteen years ago, Discover The Phoenix Region Magazine introduced Rhonda Towns to our readers as an emerging star to watch. Today, we celebrate her not only as a remarkable artist but also as a symbol of perseverance, faith, and grace. Her journey reminds us that true artistry is not measured only in chart positions or record sales, but in the courage to be authentic, the strength to overcome, and the willingness to share one’s light with the world.
Rhonda Towns is more than a country music artist. She is a voice of resilience. She is a storyteller of the human heart. And she will always be, for us, the face of possibility.
