Thank you for taking the time to have this interview with IMAAI.
Tell us about your music.
I will take a step back to explain my musical style origins. I started off in the Country genre about 9 years ago. My first songwriting sessions brought out the “pop” side in me! I was told my “country” songs sounded too “pop”. Staying true to myself my style evolved into a contemporary “pop” sound. The past 5 years have seen me release several singles a year all with a strong “Contemporary Pop” sound combining elements of R&B & EDM; if you listen real careful you may still pick up a hint of Country!
When did you start performing?
I started singing, just like many many artists in school and church. I had my first solo in the 3rd grade. I won a major talent competition when I was 11 years old which lead me to Nashville at the age of 12 for my first songwriting sessions. From the beginning I have been mentored with my songwriting by some awesomely talented people. I kept my production in Nashville until about 2 years ago when I was introduced to some great Pop producers in LA! I travel out to LA about every 3 months for songwriting and recording. My last several releases are from Cali!! I love what I’m doing in songwriting and production and already have my next single in the works.
What do you consider to be your hometown and how does that affect your music?
My hometown is Atlanta,Ga., born and raised! I have had the opportunity to reap the benefits of the music scene here in my city, Nashville (only 3 hours drive ) and also NYC and LA. My upbringing included listening to classic Southern Rock, Pop Rock, Jazz and surprise surprise Country!!! Country was a big influence when I was getting started. As I evolved my pop sound and being an Atlanta girl, there has been influence from the HipHop-Rap genre so popular here. Lyrics are important. I focus on listening to lyric structure and than I like to disect the instruments and beats used to bring the lyrics to life. Atlanta has a thriving live music scene, I regularly perform solo and full band shows.
What performers have been your inspiration?
Here are some of them in no particular order
Dolly Parton: What a legend, she has stay true to herself, although her main genre is country she branches out on occasion for spiritual and pop songs. Also, she has enjoyed longevity in the industry, gives off such positive and energy and a savvy business women!
Stevie Nicks: Again, to me she is a legend! I am most attracted to her vocals and her eclectic vibes. She has maintained her style and energy , I just saw her in concert… it was magical.
Taylor Swift, Keith Urban, Post Malone, Bob Dylan, Ed Sheeran, Adele, Miranda Lambert; all of these artists have such distinct styles and have strengths with songwriting and performances showcasing their music personalities. There are many more, I am a constant student of musical works.
What do you base your success on?
Great question, this one is easy!! I am a LEO, if you read the description of LEO , I am all of it!!!!!!! Determined, Focused, Tenacious, Strong willed. I felt the call of music at a young age and haven’t looked back. I always say “music beckoned me and I followed….”
What was your latest musical release?
My latest release is “The Best You’ll Ever Have”. My songwriting is greatly influenced by my life and those around me. This song is sort of a combination of “if you dont like me I’m leaving” or I gave this relationship effort and you don’t appreciate it so I’m out of here” The jest of the song was taken from a failed relationship and I took this song into “sassy” territory with the lyrics. The song is written by me and my Producer, Fabio Campedelli ( LA ).
Do you have any news to share?
I am working on several new songs, one of which is almost ready for release. The song is titled “Symptoms”. The song has some fun lyrics and a dance beat! I will be filming an official music video to accompany this release. Also, I have just put together a band and we have already booked/performed several shows with more to come. This is fun for me because I perform out a lot as a Solo or Duo and having a band is pretty darn exciting. I am looking at late summer or fall to do some shows on the road.
How can fans find you?
www.linktr.ee.com/officialkatiebelle
www.facebook.com/officialkatiebelle
www.instagram.com/officialkatiebelle
www.tiktok.com/officialkatiebelle
www.youtube.com/katiebelleakin1
www.twitter.com/katiebellemusic
Booking: www.officialkatiebelle.com/contact
or katie@katiebelleakinmusic.com
Lastly, please share some final words with the fans.
I am blessed every single day to be able to persue my music. I have support from my family and friends. Something very important to me are my fans, they inspire, energize and encourage me…I would not be here with out them…. I call them my “fanmily”. Can’t wait to see what I can do in the second half of 2023 and beyond.
Thank you for these great questions and inviting me to interview.
Katie Belle