New Music: interview with Katie Armiger
August 18, 2008
Only 17, Katie Armiger, a newcomer on the country music scene, already released her 2nd album and has been featured in People's Country special issue as one of the hottest new country talents. This powerful singer and witty songwriter seized her opportunity when she won a Houston 93Q radio station country contest a year ago and recorded her first single and then album with legendary producer Mark Oliverius (Trick Pony, Lorrie Morgan) on Houston's Cold River Records. The new album Believe, on the heels of her successful self-titled album, is a reflection of Katie's optimism, overcoming challenges and believing in yourself. The new album rocks from the start with the 1st tune, Jealousy. Her producer, Jonathan Lawson, shared his talent co-writing and singing on this tune. All but one of the tunes were written by Katie. The writing is sincere, genuine, and singing is completely from the heart. This is really what great heartfelt country music is about.
A Texas native, Katie enjoys the built-in fan club of her family including 5 other siblings. Perhaps, it is this support that nurtured her talent for writing poems before she was 14. Her strong voice which shines best on Believe, the new album's title track, does bring comparisons to Martina McBride and Leann Rimes, but is undisputedly original and proof Katie Armiger has secured her spot on the country music stage.
We asked this rising star a few questions in this email interview.
How did you get your start in music?
I did a radio contest in Houston and won. There were a few hundred contestants. I won a $1000 and a recording deal.
What was the first album you ever bought?
Brooks and Dunn
What is the last album you bought?
Sugarland
Who are the biggest influences on your music?
Martina McBride, Tim McGraw, Brooks and Dunn, Patsy Cline. First contest I ever did I sang Blue Moon of Kentucky.
What was it like debuting on the CMA red carpet last year?
Awesome! It was a dream. I was very inspired. I felt like a Princess.
Believe is your second album this July, following on the success of your self-titled album last year. What have you done differently this time?
It is mostly all my own material. The first one I loved but the second album reflects my growth as an artist.
What have you learned?
Lots and lots of stuff! What things I should or shouldn't say on air.
You wrote the majority of songs on your albums. When did you first start writing your own songs?
When I was 13 or 14 is when I wrote my first complete song but even in Kindergarten I have always written stuff.
Where do you draw inspiration?
From everything. Life in general. Friends, Family, tv, movies. Just sitting down and people watching. You can write so many songs from that. There are some really great stories out there.
You wrote a number of tracks together with Ashlee Hewitt, a recent competitor on Nashville Star. Have you known each other for a while?
We have known each other for two years. She is my best friend and I respect her as an artist, songwriter and producer.
What do you love most about country music?
That it is real, honest, and from the heart. Nowadays songs don't seem to have meaning but the majority of country songs have meaning.
What's next for you?
Have a showcase in Nashville on the 20th, My video is coming out, working on material for the next album, and looking at more shows and hope to be joining a tour.
What is one thing you can't live without?
Barnes and Noble, Benadryl and shampoo!
You can find more information about Katie Armiger on her website, www.katiearmiger.com
