An Interview with New York Singer Kathy Craig

Myspace has revolutionized music industry promotion. As recently as five years ago, undiscovered talent had virtually no hope of showcasing their talents without representation. Today, singers and musicians dominate the site adding their songs, marketing future gigs and creating mailing lists.

Kathy Craig is one such singer who has taken advantage of Myspace. On her page, www.myspace.com/katcraig, Craig features original and cover material. She has performed at open mic nights in New York City and continues to work on new songs. She was kind enough to sit and talk with Associated Content about her career, the state of the music business and her goals for the future.

A.C.: When did you know you wanted to pursue singing?

Kathy Craig: I knew ever since I was about 5 or 6. My mom said I used to make my dolls sing when I played with them. When I started school I always said I wanted to be a singer when I grew up. People used to laugh at me so I started saying that I was going to be a vet instead. Years later, I stopped caring what people thought and did what was in my heart.

A.C.: How supportive are your family and friends?

Kathy Craig: They are pretty supportive of what I do. They're interested in different projects that I'm working on. When I recorded my first demo my mom was so excited she brought the CD into work and played it for everyone, like, 5 times. I guess that's what mothers are for right?

A.C.: You attended C.W. Post and studied music. Many music professors look down on popular music. What's your take on pop?

Kathy Craig: Well, pop music is very broad and people have different opinions about it. Pop music has roots in R&B, rock and even a little jazz. I think it paved the way for a lot of artists from the 60's to today. I mean, do you think Michael Jackson would have been as popular if pop music wasn't popular?

A.C.: As someone who is musically tone deaf I find the singers on American Idol Season 6 to be severely lacking in talent. There seems to be an increased emphasis on image. What is your opinion of American Idol?

Kathy Craig: I think American Idol gives people a chance to really get out there and show the world what they've got. As someone who knows what the business can be like, it can be really difficult to get yourself seen by the right people. To be honest, I think American Idol is a lot like the music business. Yes you have to have talent but you also have to look the part. They're looking for the total package. Some people may not agree with it, but that's how the business is. If it was easy everyone would be doing it right?

A.C.: How do you handle stage fright?

Kathy Craig: That's a good question. Before a performance, I'm a nervous wreck. I get all shaky and I can't breathe well but I try (emphasis on TRY) and tell myself that this is what I love to do and I go out there and do my best. Once I start singing everything else just melts away.

A.C.: Is there a specific genre you feel most suited towards?

Kathy Craig: I'm not sure if you would really call this a specific genre but my music is more on the rock/jazz side. I'm not too good with the bubble gum stuff and you won't hear me screaming metal rock any time soon either. I sing what makes me feel good.

A.C.: Any audition horror stories?

Kathy Craig: The first time I auditioned for a band I didn't really know what to expect or how it worked. I practiced the song they wanted me to but I forgot the words. I had to read them off a piece of paper and when they asked me to sing some other songs I couldn't remember the words to those either because I was so nervous. Ugh, it was a disaster! They said they'd call me. I wonder why they never did...

A.C.: Would you rather be famous or well respected?

Kathy Craig: Do you want my honest answer or the politically correct answer? In all seriousness though I mean who wouldn't want to be famous? People want fans and all that comes with fame, good and bad. It would be nice to be well respected too.

A.C.: What would you do if you couldn't sing?

Kathy Craig: I think I would still do something creative like interior design or cooking. I love to cook.

A.C.: Who are your greatest musical influences?

Kathy Craig: It's the popular belief among friends that my greatest musical influence is Celine Dion. She's one of them absolutely but I'm also influenced by Ella Fitzgerald, Barbara Streisand and even Melissa Etheridge. The music to Coffeehouse Girl was inspired by one of her songs, Truth of the Heart.

A.C. Lastly and perhaps most importantly, boxers or briefs? :)

Kathy Craig: Big purple granny undies actually :).