Brandon Heath interviews new Fervent recording artist Francesca Battistelli in the second installment of his "New Artist Spotlight."

The first time I heard Francesca’s song “I’m Letting Go” on the radio, I wondered, “Who is this, and where do I find her record?” It’s cool to see Christian radio embracing a new female artist. I thought it would be fun to get to know her better, so I gave her a call. –B.H.

Brandon Heath: Francesca! Brandon Heath here! You may be excited to learn you are the “New Artist of the Month” for CCM. You just told me you’re in Nashville right?

Francesca Battistelli: I am!

Brandon: Are you having a little time off from your busy schedule?

Francesca: Yeah, I am here for almost the whole week. Then, we end the tour on Sunday with Newsong and Aaron Shust. It’s been a blast, but we’re almost done!

Brandon: Is this your first tour? Had you been on a tour before?

Francesca: Yeah, this is my first official tour. I was out with Big Daddy Weave all last spring, and that was a blast. Still haven’t done the bus thing yet. Still flying and driving everywhere.

Brandon: It’s good and weird at the same time because you wake up in a parking lot! So you have been driving? Is anyone with you?

Francesca: Yes. I have a good friend from back home, Shayna, who is with me and who does road managing and merch. She’s been a lifesaver.

Brandon: You said you grew up in Orlando?

Francesca: Yes, my family moved when I was 7, and my whole growing up was there. [I] went to college at the University of Central Florida. Shayna went there too; that’s how we met. It’s a great place to grow up—tourist capital of the world!

Brandon: What’s it like for your family to see how well you’re doing?

Francesca: I am an only child, so my parents are thrilled with everything. They are awesome! I am blessed to have a Godly, amazing family; parents who love the Lord… They want to be [involved]. My mom is volunteering at a share-a-thon at a radio station back home as a way to give back to the stations who have been so supportive.

Brandon: How has it been learning the radio stations and keeping up with everybody?

Francesca: I remember faces better than I remember names, so it’s been a lot of fun. I have only had good experiences so far. Radio folks have all been so sweet to me. It’s been an experience, those morning shows…