Interview with Kat Orlando
Kat Orlando is a Jazz musician.
Why did you want to be a professional musician?
I was drawn into music at a very young age. It was just fascinating to listen to and watch singers on TV. This continued as I grew up in the 60s 70s, a prime time for innovative artists. I thought being a musician and vocalist would be the most expressive thing you could do. I had artistic drawing ability and went to school for that as my fall-back option. But early on I felt like I would be stifled and caged in a corporate situation. Now I do both graphics and music. Ironically, these days, music is the dominant factor in my life.
What inspires your music?
Artists I listen to, dreams, beats, melodies. Thoughts, feelings, social situations in the world, stories.
What things get you in the mood to write songs or do lyrics come spontaneously?
I like to be in a relaxed setting without interruptions but ideas come to me in all kinds of situations. Driving, dreams, in the shower. I can be in conversation and get an idea and have to go off in another room and record an idea in my phone or write lyrics down. Sometimes I'll just play random chords on the keyboard, which can lead to lyrics and melody. Just writing thoughts, journals can lead to rhymes, songs.
How do you want your music to affect people?
Even though I write from my own experience, I try to find a common denominator in my lyrics that people can relate to. Melody is important too, the rise and fall of chords, melody that changes the mood, implying emotion. I used to be all about making people want to dance and feel emotions like happiness, joy, just fun. Now I may be getting more into conveying feelings, emotions like loss and sadness. Music used to always help me get through bad times. That is another goal to have in reaching people with my music.
Do you test out your songs before releasing them?
No but I probably should. Well... I have my producer or musicians be the sounding board on things. I want to come out the gate with the confidence to present a song to the audience. Sometimes people will judge if they have not heard it built up by the media as a great or viable song. I'd rather go with my gut because other people in or out of the business have different concepts of what a good or great song is. Constructive criticism and positive feedback suggestions are welcomed. No comments speak volumes sometimes. I can't be swayed by this, or I will not open up the way I can.
How do you prepare for a gig?
Warm-ups are always good, vocal-wise and playing. I like to move, so physical exercise stretches are good to get adrenaline going. But really, that will happen anyway!
What is your favorite song that you've written?
That's kind of like asking who is your favorite child. ;-) Most anything I've brought out from the studio is special to me.
Has there been a reaction to one of your songs that you've been surprised by?
Just getting a reaction is special! My music is online so I may not know what the reaction is. Sometimes I get negative reactions. Recently someone found my lyrics annoying! The one they referred to, I did push the "envelope" on my lyric content but if you listen to rap stuff, anything goes... and what does "sound too clean and polished" mean?? I never thought a clean solid recording was a bad thing. Maybe the best one was being told at one point, my stuff sounds like Prince.
What are some ways that you promote yourself?
Mostly online these days, Facebook, e-blasts. Also trying to be consistent on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube. I'm trying to get more show based promotions going, like CD release parties, listening parties, live steam talk-music shows. Lately looking into a few merchandise items, to put out there.
What would you say has been the biggest challenge of your career?
Definitely promoting myself! I'm not my best salesperson, but I have to be. Doing shows where I am the full-on organizer is something that takes special motivation for me. This is because it's all on me to make it a success, musically and financially, as well as a good experience for the audience.
What have been your favorite places to tour?
Right now I'm in Florida, and I do like it here. I miss Colorado. I'd like to go back to perform there. If someone called with a European tour and the right situation I'd go!
Are there advantages to being an independent musician?
Yes. Sometimes I may get frustrated by lack of recognition but on the flip-side, in certain situations, I have more freedom to do what I want, musically. (I wish that were the case financially!) Socially, I don't have to worry about being mobbed! If someone recognizes me out and about, that's icing on the cake.