Songwriter Interview – Katie Belle

On The Table Read, the “Best Celebrity Magazine in the UK“, singer-songwriter Katie Belle talks about her music career and what inspires her songwriting.

Written by JJ Barnes

www.jjbarnes.co.uk

I interviewed singer-songwriter Katie Belle about her life, what inspires her, and the creative process behind her new single, Now That I Know.

Tell me a bit about who you are.

My name is Katie. I’m a pop artist from Atlanta GA! I found my love music at a young age singing and school and church. When I was about 10 I got scouted by Capitol Records for artist development, and I’ve been playing then game ever since!

When did you first WANT to write songs?

I always wanted to write. I never felt like I was that good at it so it was really uncomfortable but I remember writing songs at 6 or 7.

When did you take a step to start writing songs?

The first real song I wrote that ended up being recorded was when I was 12. I was doing country music at the time with a producer up in Nashville and I’ve basically written on almost every song I’ve been a part of since then.

What was your first song released, and what was it about?

It was a little song I wrote when I was 11 or 12 called fight inside of me! I later sold it to an up in coming artist that was in the show My Big Fat American Gypsy Wedding (Jackie Dee) and that was her first single she ever released. Such a crazy story haha

What was your latest song released, and what was it about?

“Now That I Know” is my latest single! It’s a super fun pop breakup track. We dipped a little into the disco dance sound with this, a sound I’ve really been loving lately. And then a film theme with the words which I love because I’ve been talking to a guy in the film industry so its very fitting for me in my personal life as well haha.

Focusing on your latest song. What were your biggest challenges with Now That I Know?

Probably deciding whether I wanted to release it or not. I recorded a group of 5 songs last year and trying to figure out what to release next has been a challenge. It probably doesn’t sound like a big deal or that deep but there’s actually a lot of thought and strategy into deciding when and what to release!

What is your favorite song you’ve recorded, and what do you love about it?

I think Out Tonight. I wrote that in such a fun and interesting time in my life and I very much feel like the old me still especially when I listen to it. It’s an autobiography about me and my friends and it brings me back to being 17 and summer time and just living with no sense of tomorrow. I love that song.

Do you find other people’s music inspires you? Who do you listen to most?

Of course! I probably listen to other people’s music more than my own, I’m inspired by almost every artist I listen to. But I’ve really been vibing with Dua Lipa and some old Neil Young and always some Taylor Swift.

Do you write your own music, or do you have musicians you work with?

I do! I don’t write every single song but I always like to keep the creative process collaborative.

Do you play any instruments?

I do! I tap a little bit on the piano and I’m trying to pick up the guitar

Do you like performing live, or does it scare you? Where can people watch you?

I love performing live, I like live shows a lot  more than being in the studio actually!!! I do have some shows coming up in Atlanta 5/12,5/19,6/10 you can find more details on my social media!!!

Is your music available online, and where can people listen to it?

Absolutely! https://open.spotify.com/artist/7HLN8q74hfXmbPl1uMG6Uz?si=J_oKxQI2TbK6Hvk4isJsLA

Are you able to make music full time, or do you have a day job?

I do make music full time! I act and model as well so that help brings in income but mostly just live shows and appearances for music.

Are your friends and family supportive of your music career?

Super supportive. I’ve been playing a lot of private shows recently and my friends have been so upset because they can’t come, haha. So yeah my friends are awesome and my mom is always sitting in the front row. My brother and dad also come to as many shows as they can (:

Have you had any experiences that really stand out because of your songs?

How empathic I am. How I can write a whole song about a story that isn’t even mine.

Do you have any important events coming up we should know about?

All of my shows! They’ll be in the Atlanta area on 5/12, 5/19, and 6/10. You can find all details on my social media

What is the first piece of advice you would give to anyone inspired to write songs?

Be yourself. No one knows truly what it’s like to be you. Use that point of view to your advantage. Show the world what it’s like to see through your eyes.

And, finally, are you proud of your accomplishment? Was it worth the effort?

Absolutely, I’ve never regretted working hard. And there’s a lot more work to do but there’s so much excitement for the future.

Pop all your music, website and social media links here so the readers can find you:

Katie Belle Official ; officialkatiebelle.com

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