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Louisiana-born Katelyn Benton is a singer, songwriter, and pianist whose dreamy and dark alt-pop connects the mysterious dots between Debussy and Disney movie soundtracks with an introspective, whimsical touch. Here’s our introduction to Katelyn Benton…
How long have you been playing music?
I began playing piano as a toddler on my Grandmother’s lap and studied classical piano all throughout school. I loved all genres of music though and began writing and performing when I was 12, and have done so ever since!
What should people expect when they check out your music? How would you describe yourself?
I’m a singer/songwriter with a dreamy and dark twist. Rich instrumental arrangements, thoughtful lyrics, and of course, a heavy influence on the piano. It’s a little genre-bendy, combining elements of pop, singer/songwriter, and even film composition.
How did you feel performing your first gig, and how was it?!
I played my first gig when I was 12 and had an absolute blast. My aunt and uncle own several restaurants and when they found out I was interested in performing, they invited me to play at the annual party they threw for their employees. It was a short set, probably only 4 songs, but I felt like a rockstar.
The new music scene is bursting at the seams at the minute with fresh talent, in what ways do you feel that a band has to stand out to build a name for themselves?
It’s true, new music is released all over the world every moment of the day. My hope is that my songwriting and piano chops help to set me apart, but I also believe that having so much music out there isn’t necessarily a bad thing. It can be hard to compete for the attention of listeners, but I think it’s great that today musicians can record and distribute music themselves, and don’t have to go through the gatekeeping of major labels. It also means that so many more genres have been popularised, which is great! When I write music that really makes me feel something, or helps me, or impacts anyone around me in a positive way, I have faith that there are other people who may feel the same way, and that’s who I release my music for.
What are you working on at the minute that people can check out?
I’ve released several singles lately that were produced by film composer Scott Nickoley and Ryan Franks, and I love the cinematic sound to those songs, which can be found on Spotify or any other streaming platform. I’m working on some solo piano tracks for the first time now, covering alt-rock songs from the ’90s by Radiohead, Pearl Jam, and Red Hot Chilli Peppers.
In terms of a similar audience, which band out there at the minute do you feel you would be best suited to open for?
I’d vote for Haim. Our sounds are actually pretty different, which is good for having a dynamic show.
Excluding yourself, which new band would you like to see break out and become a success?
Los Angeles artist Annabel Lee.
What are your own first musical memories? And what was the lightbulb moment that made you go “I want to do that”?
I saw a singer/songwriter play when I was quite young. Her name was Celeste Krenz and she had the most beautiful voice and her songs gave me chills. When I saw her play with a band, it made me want to be up there with her. She ended up becoming my mentor, my vocal instructor and helped me hone my songwriting.
What was the last gig that you attended as a fan?
Tame Impala at the Hollywood Bowl! Such an amazing show!
What current social issue are you particularly passionate about?
I’m a big advocate for mental health awareness. I think we need to normalise talking about mental health and providing resources to help people feel better and less alone.
The album that you have in your album collection/Spotify playlist that would surprise most people?
Probably Hanson. I’m not afraid to say it. Hanson is underrated.
Although 2021 was another year to forget, there were some amazing new albums released, what would be your album of last year? And, what new music have you been enjoying so far this year?
For 2021, Friends That Break Your Heart by James Blake, especially “Famous Last Words,” Cyclorama by Polo and Pan, and Haim’s Women In Music Pt.III. So far this year I’ve been enjoying Things Are Great by Band of Horses, The Silence in Between by Bob Moses, and The Dream by Alt J.
What does 2022 hold for you?
Hopefully, now that things are opening up, I’ll be back to performing for the first time since before the pandemic. Other than that, I’ve got a few more songs in the can ready to go that I’m eager to share.
How active are you on social media and where can people connect with you?
I’m most active on Instagram, and you can find me @katelynbenton
