Being an aspiring singer is no easy feat, and trying to make it in Los Angeles is even tougher. Blonde-bombshell Kaitlyn Anderson not only has made it from the bottom up—she’s ended up making an impact on indie radio airwaves after only one week on radio.
As a child, Kaitlyn was inspired by the powerful vocals of Bette Midler, the moving lyrics of Amy Grant, and the catchy tunes of The Beach Boys. She pursued music throughout her life and never let go of her passion, even though she did stumble on some roadblocks getting to where she is now.
“Confidence used to be an issue for me. It takes a strong person to get out there and make dreams become a reality and I admit that I was scared at times.”
Now, Kaitlyn has perfected her sound on her debut EP (out since May 9, 2008) “A New Word for Over” as rock blended with a hint of pop. She notes that her musical influences came from the sounds of Paramore, The Foo Fighters, Carrie Underwood, and Mandy Moore. After giving it a listen, she definitely does have a Mandi Moore meets Paramore mixed with a strong dose of Kelly Clarkson kind of vibe.
Kaitlyn took time away from her recent show (after an impressive cover of GnR’s Sweet Child O’ Mine) to sit down and chat.
LA’s the Place: Has it been a difficult journey getting your musical career started from scratch?
Kaitlyn Anderson: I am tearing up as I answer this because it’s been and continues to be the most challenging experience of my entire life. However, absolutely without a doubt the most rewarding & fulfilling (and FUN).
As Hamilton Holt said, "Nothing worthwhile comes easily."
I am grateful because I have learned so much, and will continue to learn every day. Also, the support from family, friends and my team has been indescribable…there is no way I could have done anything without them.
LATP: What has been your biggest challenge?
KA: Getting fans out to my shows. It’s tough because LA is so spread out, shows are late, there are age restrictions, etc. But I will never stop promoting! :o)
LATP: I hear ya… Where in LA have you played shows?
KA: I’ve been lucky enough to play at some amazing venues: The Troubadour, The Plush Lounge at Key Club, M-Bar, The Gig (Melrose), The Derby, The Mint, The Rainbow, The Cat Club, Good Hurt, with more venues on the map in and outside of town. Check out my MySpace page for my calendar. www.myspace.com/kaitlynandersonmusic
LATP: That is great… Tell me, what is your favorite thing about being a singer/songwriter and why?
KA: It is definitely that I can write about whatever I want, knowing that I will understand it and connect with it. Music is so powerful when you believe in it.
LATP: Which song on your EP means the most to you personally and why?
KA: Truthfully, they all mean a lot to me because they’re all pieces of me and tell stories about what I was going through at the time.
However, if I had to choose one, I would say most likely say "Walk Away." I was in a very emotionally difficult place when I co-wrote that song, & it came out exactly how I wanted it to.
If I can choose two (laughs), I would choose my single, "Unhappy" because I wrote that as a way to literally say goodbye to someone. I was living every day for "them" – not for me. That made me miserable, which is no way to live. Realizing that and doing something about it was extremely hard, but very empowering and it ended up being the best decision I have EVER made.
LATP: How does it feel being played on radio airwaves?
KA: Ridiculously exciting. I can’t believe it’s finally happening. I’m young, and my life is only just beginning.
LATP: You hit radio, what is up next for you?
KA: Thank you for asking! Grabbing a hold of the stars, and not letting go. ;o) I might be a small girl, but I want to do BIG things and I think I have a pretty good shot!
Short term, I want to play more shows (a tour) up and down the California coast and in other states to gain more FANS! They’re absolutely the most important thing. I also want to write more to show my range – vocally and emotionally.
Long term, I want to continue to expand my "team" and get a sweet record deal. (Smiles) Ideally, I want to establish a rad career with longevity and make a life with fantastic music.
LATP: We wish you the best, you are a very talented lady.
