Ella Hanshaw

Ella Hanshaw was a self-taught musician born on October 7, 1934, in Procious, West Virginia. She began playing the guitar at the age of 12 with dreams of becoming a country star. Over her life, she wrote hundreds of songs, many of which were spirituals reflecting her Pentecostal faith. Despite never being professionally recorded during her lifetime, her music was captured in private home recordings and demos. Ella's music was often performed with the Hallelujah Hill Quartet, a group she formed with her husband Tracy, and others. Her songs are known for their craftsmanship and spiritual themes, with a notable focus on faith and healing. Ella passed away on July 29, 2020, but her legacy lives on through her music, which has been compiled into albums like "Ella Hanshaw's Black Book," featuring both gospel and country tracks.

Ella's music career was marked by her deep connection to her faith and her belief that her songs were a divine gift. She was a devoted performer in churches across West Virginia, and her music reflects themes of love, longing, and spiritual connection. Recent releases of her work, such as "One More Hill," showcase her ability to craft heartfelt and melancholic melodies. Her granddaughter played a crucial role in compiling her music for release, ensuring that Ella's unique voice and legacy are preserved for future generations.

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