Kelly Paris — Vocal law enforcement

Kelly Paris made his singing debut with a rendition of “Jesus Loves Me.”
That was for his aunt’s wedding. He was 3 years old.
Now Paris, a deputy with the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, is spending up to two weekends a month in Nashville working on his budding solo career.
“I love it,” Paris said. “That’s what I’m always wanted to do.”
Paris grew up in Crouse and quickly became active in singing groups.
Starting out in local groups, he worked his way up to regional ones and finally became part of a trio that toured nationally.
The group, David’s Heart, formed in 2000 and broke up in 2002. During the two years the band toured, members would play four to six shows a month.
It was during his time with David’s Heart that Paris made some of his most important connections — connections that would help lead him to Nashville.
Through the group, he met Gene Johnson, a tenor with the country group Diamond Rio.
“He listened and agreed to help guide me,” Paris said.
Paris tries to go to Nashville twice a month, when his schedule and finances permit.
He works with Joel Lindsey, who has penned several No. 1 gospel songs, on writing country tunes.
Paris also does demo work. He’ll sing the songs other writers have created, and those recordings will be used to pitch the songs to other artists.
He’s even cut a five-song demo album for Johnson.
Paris hopes to eventually be able to move to Nashville and focus more on his country music career.
Right now, he said he’s lucky his employers at the Sheriff’s Office are understanding enough to accommodate his schedule. His family is also supportive.
Paris is optimistic and ready to move forward with his dream career, despite hurdles he might face.
“I knew it was going to be tough, and it’s a long process,” he said.
“But I have to keep the mindset that this is my dream and this is what I want to do and try to be content in every moment.”
Paris lives in Cherryville with his wife and 3-year-old son.by Alice Smith