Looking at her resume, you would hardly believe it belonged to a teenager. Yet, Katie Belle Akin has already accomplished much in a short period of time and seems committed to doing much more. For starters, this teen country pop singer-songwriter, actress and model is currently a featured artist on the nationally acclaimed Teen Nation Tour 2014. Teen Nation Tour travels to middle schools across the U.S. with their message to Stand Strong and Defend Against Bullying. She has won numerous awards and has recently watched her debut radio cover song 'Let Her Go' climb to the top spot on national and international radio charts. The music that she writes conveys positive messages regarding having faith in onself and persevering. Reporter Andrew Edwards caught up with Katie Belle recently to learn more about this rising star and her plans for the future.
ANDREW: When did you first discover your love of music?
KATIE BELLE: Like many teens in my age range, my first personal exposure to music was the ‘Hannah Montana’ show; I was about 7 years old. My dad had always played a lot of classic rock so I am familiar with many of those artists. Tried and true classics along with modern pop-country are what ignited my passion for music. In third grade, I had a music teacher at school who saw potential in me. He worked with me and encouraged me way before even my parents understood that I was an artist!
ANDREW: Your song 'Let Her Go’ has been a big hit on radio for its third straight month. What was your initial reaction when you first heard your song playing on radio?
KATIE BELLE: It is surreal to hear your voice coming out of the radio! I screamed and tried to get a picture of the tag line. It is just an awesome feeling and at the same time I had several friends texting me and saying they heard me! As a singer-songwriter, it is without a doubt a special moment when you hear yourself on the radio.
ANDREW: Your rendition of 'Let Her Go' by Passenger is very beautiful. What was it in particular that drew you to this song?
KATIE BELLE: When my brother first had me listen to ‘Let Her Go’, it was my first time hearing Passenger and the song completely captured me. The lyrics and melody sounded very fresh and new and it really is just a beautifully written song. I love the imagery of Passenger's lyrics in this song.
ANDREW: Would you say that the mood of your other songs is in the same vein as 'Let Her Go’?
KATIE BELLE: I enjoy a good ballad, but most of the songs I write are up tempo and energetic with positive storylines. My goal is to leave the listener in a happy state of mind and of course wanting to hear more and following me on social media. I write my songs from things that happen to me and my friends and life lessons I have learned. The list of song ideas is really, really long.
ANDREW: How would you characterize yourself as an artist? (ex. Down-to-earth, serious, fun-loving...)
KATIE BELLE: Fun, aspirational, genuine, hard-working.
ANDREW: Did you come from a musical background? Are there other musicians in your family?
KATIE BELLE: I come from an artistic family. Both my grandparents were professionally trained pianists. I have relatives who played the violin and organ, but no true vocalist that I am aware of. I also have an aunt who is a painter and an uncle who painted and played several instruments. I would say creativity is in my blood.
ANDREW: What do you find most rewarding about being an artist? What do you find most challenging?
KATIE BELLE: I love meeting people, making fans and getting to know a lot of them personally. The most challenging part is balancing school, social life and the many hours I devote to my music.
ANDREW: Who are your role models in music?
KATIE BELLE: My role models are Beyonce for her vocals and business sense, Carrie Underwood for her vocals and live performances, the early music of Miley Cyrus because the lyrics were relatable, Taylor Swift for her lyrics and connection with her fans and Kacey Musgraves for her melodies and lyrics. Other long time favorites whose songs I study are Dolly Parton, Elvis Presley, The Beatles, Johnny Cash and Connie Francis.
ANDREW: What advice would you give to young, aspiring musicians out there who are unsure and need guidance?
KATIE BELLE: Build stage confidence by entering local talent competitions or musical theater. Get a voice coach and start a Youtube channel. Another thing is to gain confidence in songwriting by joining a local songwriters group or looking for seminars. I feel the more you learn about all aspects of music, the more confident you become and really understand your brand and what you are trying to accomplish with your own music. I also do a little modeling and acting, which broadens my artistic perspective.
ANDREW: What's next for Katie Belle Akin? Is there a follow-up single in the works? If so, what can you tell us about it?
KATIE BELLE: Coming up next from me is a lot more music. I have just released my EP titled ‘Next Thing In Tennessee’. There are five songs on the EP. I was a major writer on all of the songs. The single on the EP getting the most attention is titled ‘Falling for You’. Hmm...as a matter of fact I should enter that song into The Akademia Music Awards for original song! My music library grows monthly and I have several summer performances lined up mainly in the Southeast. This fall I continue my roster spot on Teen Nation ‘Stand and Defend Against Bullying Tour’. We will be coming through my hometown of Atlanta and I am so psyched. I will be on tour for six weeks in North Carolina, Georgia and Tennessee. I also want to take this opportunity to thank all the people who are involved with my music. I have an awesome team- my family, my fans, my management team and did I say my fans? They have all been major factors in my success.
ANDREW: Well, you've certainly got a lot to look forward to! Thanks for taking time out to share your story with me. I wish you continued success and good luck!
© 2014 Marquix Global Network
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