Posts tagged "country music"

Spotlight x Karen McCormick!

What happens when your passion for music + beautiful vocals perfectly collide? An undeniable artist full of creativity, talent + energy sprouts up on the scene named Karen McCormick! Her captivating voice + inviting guitar creates musical magic for her audience + listeners to enjoy while being inspired.

Homegrown country pop artist Karen McCormick is a Washington based singer and songwriter. Raised on the contemporary country sounds of Carrie Underwood, Faith Hill and more, Karen began honing her guitar and songwriting skills at the young age of 13. After posting videos of her performances to YouTube, Karen caught the attention of many new fans, including NBC The Voice’s Terry McDermott who invited her be the opening act at his show. She has amassed over 830,000 views worldwide and continues to interact with her growing fan base who is eager to hear the release of her highly anticipated debut single “Just A Song“ on March 16, and her debut EP due later this year.

Let’s get to know Karen a little better…

You first picked up a guitar and began your musical journey at the young age of 13! Why was it important for you to express yourself through song + music?
Up until I turned 13, we had moved around quite a bit. Music had been something that remained constant for me. I had joined the church choir, then joined the school choir, and it was evident that I loved singing. But when I started to play guitar and write my own songs, I found it was the easiest way for me to express myself and I didn’t want to stop!

You have created an amazing following with over 800,000 views on YouTube! How has social media played a role in building a community + sharing your gifts? And why is it important to be proactive in going for your dreams by creating your opportunities + not just waiting?
Social media is an amazing tool and platform — especially for independent artists like myself. Artists have the ability to reach international audiences without a record label! That’s incredible. I would feel like I was doing myself and potential listeners a disservice if I didn’t take advantage of the opportunities that social media platforms can provide. More importantly, we only have one life and nothing is guaranteed — why not go all out for your dreams?

At the age of 22, you already have your debut single, “Just a Song” releasing on March 16th! Is it tough to tap into your emotions and pour your thoughts + vulnerabilities in your music?
I’ve actually found that music is the easiest place for me to be vulnerable and share my emotions. For me, if I write a song about a situation, then perform that song for an audience, every time it gets easier and easier — because I’ve processed the event and I’ve moved on. At that point, the song is for the audience. It’s for them to listen to and connect with and hopefully relate to.

You’ve opened for Terry McDermott of NBC’s The Voice + performed for countless festivals + concerts​, how does performing live inspire you in the music you write to connect with your listeners?
What I love about music is that it can bring together a group of people with completely different upbringing, ages, or beliefs. Music has no boundaries, no rules. When it comes to performing, if I’ve connected with just one person in the audience, I feel I’ve done my job. And I’m proud. As a songwriter, singer, entertainer, I feel my job is to help listeners forget about what is going on in their everyday lives and just have a good time during those two hours of my set.

We are all about empowerment, what does EMPOWERMENT mean to you?
For me, empowerment is taking control of your life. I’ve wanted to sing since I was 16 years old, but along the way I’ve lacked confidence in myself and my ability to go after those aspirations. Now I’m 22, and I feel like I can accomplish my goals as long as I believe in myself and work hard. It’s realizing that you have the ability to create your own path and the only thing that can stop you, is you holding yourself back. So don’t! 😉

What advice would you give girls who want to follow their dreams and passions but are nervous or intimidated?
It’s scary! I completely understand and 100% relate to being apprehensive to following your dreams. But think about it this way — what’s stopping you? In my case, it’s always been me holding myself back. No one else. You have the ability to make your dreams and passions come true, all you have to do, is do it. This year, I created a vision board for myself so I could have a visual representation of my goals and see them every day. It’s helped me so much! I wake up, see my goals, and ask myself, “What am I going to do today that will help me get one step closer to accomplishing these goals?”

Time for faves! Celeb Crush? Artist? Food? Movie?
Celeb Crush: Nick Jonas! Ugh, I’ve been waiting for him to realize I exist since I was like, 13!
Artist: Carrie Underwood. She has mastered the balance of having an incredible career and a family. I love that about her.
Food: Pizza, pizza, and still pizza. Though I’m boring…my favorite flavor is cheese!
Movie: I don’t have a favorite movie, because I have several favorites! But one that I can never get tired of is 10 Things I Hate About You!

Make sure to download her DEBUT single “Just A Song” on iTunes on March 16th!

 

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*Talent Spotlight*

Good morning!

Need some morning music? Check out 17 year old singer/musician, Karen McCormick, as she covers some of today’s hottest songs!