Exclusive Interview

You’re based in Atlanta, a city known for shaping multiple genres. How has Atlanta influenced your sound and your journey as a pop artist? In my earlier years, I latched on to more of a Pop Country Sound. My sound has evolved during my 13 years in music! Atlanta's eclectic music scene influences me with Pop-Rock/R&B.

How do you approach turning personal experiences into songs that resonate with a wide audience? I have always kept journals, most of my music has come from ideas and stories I've written over time. I do have conversations with many people, especially when I travel; this always gives me new perspectives and insights. We all go through a lot of the same ups and downs in life, this offers many introspective ways to compose music.

When someone listens to a Katie Belle song for the first time, what do you hope they feel or take away from it? I would love to think they can relate to my topic, a fresh way to hear a familiar story through the lyrics. I also focus on the emotion in my songs with my vocals and through the musical composition. The best compliment is for them to hit "replay". I get a lot of messages via social media about how people relate to my songs.

Pop music often reflects the moment it’s created in. How do you balance writing songs that feel current while still being true to yourself? My songwriting and releases include a wide variety of topics: just about every song I release came from a concept or story I have written in my journals ( I have over 10 journals I have filled up! )

Who are some of your biggest musical influences, and how have they shaped your songwriting or performance style? When I first got started songwriting, I was 13! During this period Miley Cyrus, Taylor Swift for lyrics, along with Justin Timberlake, Adele, Beyonce, Rhianna, and more. For current inspiration you will see the familiar names of Miley Cyrus and Taylor Swift! Current obsessions include: Teddy Swims, Sombr , Dua Lipa, Billie Eilish and more. I also listen to classic rock from the 70's and 80's!

Walk us through your creative process. Do your songs usually start with a lyric, a melody, or a production idea? Most of my songs start with my lyrical ideas and a very basic melody. Once I get into songwriting sessions we take it from there. I love my songwriting sessions with my team in LA!

Your recent releases show growth and confidence. What lessons have you learned about yourself since you first started releasing music? No topic is out of bounds if written the right way. I understand the importance of not being offended by critiques and. I lean on my producer and my songwriting team for inspiration and creativity in how we compose the final product

How do you handle the pressure of expectations, whether from fans, the industry, or yourself, while staying creatively fulfilled? I have my good days and my anxious days! I have been doing this for a while now and the growth and maturity serves me well, I am conscious to keep my schedule balanced with "creative" time and "everyday life" time. I just finished a five song EP, titled "People Pleaser". I am excited about other songs in the works!

What project or song best represents where you are right now as an artist, and why does it feel significant at this stage? What a great question! I have two songs, they are both off my EP "People Pleaser". The first is "People Pleaser" a Pop-Rock song expressing my freedom from, well .. always trying to please everyone. The second is "Avoidant Attachment" Dream-Lounge-Pop about the ins and outs of relationships. These are very relatable compositions in how I feel and what many others experience as well.

Looking ahead, what’s next for you, and what kind of legacy do you hope to build through your music? The ink isn't dry in the pen! I see many more songs in my future. As far as legacy, my music is dear to me and I hope it leaves a lasting impression on others who listen.

https://officialkatiebelle.com