Ali McManus Releases Debut Album 'Unbreakable' Today

Singer / songwriter / pianist / guitarist / inspirational speaker - 21-year-old Ali McManus releases her debut album Unbreakable today (Desert Dreams Books & Music), produced by the legendary Jack Douglas. An uplifting collection of personal songs, Unbreakable features distinctive vocals and honest, powerful lyrics that speak to McManus' place as a beacon for perseverance against adversity.

I am what I am
And I love where I stand
Yeah, I can't stand for long
But I'm goin' strong
I'm Unbreakable

These lyrics, from the title track, channel the indomitable spirit of Detroit-based McManus, whose music delivers a contemporary, earnest style with a message of acceptance. Confined to a wheelchair since the age of 7 due to a rare bone disorder, Ali has endured 11 surgeries, halo tractions, steel rods to fuse and straighten her spine, and more. It was during her time at Shriner's Hospital that Ali (who has played piano since the age of 14 and guitar since 16) discovered music not only helped her through the pain, but inspired others around her. Her performances, fueled with her effervescent energy, earned her the title of "Patient Ambassador" at the hospital. "One song means three minutes of no pain. And I can say things with song that I can't speak in words alone," shares McManus.

Entering the studio in 2017 with producer Jack Douglas to begin work on the album, McManus' sound evolved. Her music traverses musical moods from the soaring strength-infused opening track "Unbreakable" to the elevating nature of "Rhythm That Rhymes." The hopeful cadence of "Wings," buoyed by gospel organs, leads to the emotional weight of "Heart Shattered." Proving that an unstoppable spirit can topple all odds, McManus' strong vocal delivery betrays her 30% lung capacity.

Named Youth Ambassador for several charities, McManus donates her time giving back to Shriner's Hospitals for Children, the Children's Miracle Network and Dick Wagner "Remember The Child" Memorial Fund. "I don't see myself as a person in a wheelchair," states Ali. "I see myself as a regular person who just happens to sit down all day." With these words, she aims to connect with listeners, and hopes to inspire them with her story. Unbreakable is an open door to her soul, washing over the listener with her warmth and optimism.

Track listing:

1.) Unbreakable
2.) Rhythm That Rhymes
3.) Breaking Free
4.) Wings
5.) Heart Shattered
6.) Home

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