Today we’d like to introduce you to Cat Calabrese.
Hi Cat, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I decided to pursue music in September 2020 following a breakup from an abusive relationship. I used music as a way to cope and heal from the trauma. Music allowed me to take back from all that I had lost and transform pain into power. Once I started the process, I was all in. I released my first single in March 2021, and since then, I have built a catalogue of nearly 20 songs.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It’s been so rewarding, and I’m so proud of all of the music I’ve made. However, it’s also tested me in ways I never expected. Prior to music, I never concerned myself with social media or comparisons to other people. But unfortunately, this business can really magnify certain insecurities and doubts. You’re constantly on social media figuring out ways to “keep up” and are being told that the algorithm defines your talent and popularity. The industry today is so oversaturated that you have to find ways to get your songs heard. It’s not enough for it to be a great piece of art; you have to find a way to sell it, and that process can be extremely discouraging. You have to continually fight those voices in your head that are obsessing and comparing and remind yourself to love the process and focus on no one else’s journey but your own.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a pop vocalist and songwriter. I specialize in writing vulnerable lyrics that tell stories about hard-hitting topics (including abusive relationships, depression, and anxiety) while pairing those lyrics with memorable pop melodies. I am proud to share my vulnerability through music. My rule for songwriting is simple: just be honest. I think what sets me apart is that I’m not afraid to say uncomfortable things in my lyrics; I share the darkest parts of my story in hopes that the person listening feels less alone and knows they’re not the only ones who feel the way they do. I show up for my music, and in turn, I get to connect with others.
Any big plans?
Right now, I’m all about leaning into what feels good and authentic to me rather than what I think will look good to others. I have a lot of great music that I can’t wait to share in 2024, and I am currently in the planning phase for those. I’m hoping to work more on my live shows, too; there’s nothing better than getting away from a screen and connecting with people in real life. I also have a couple of collaborations with artists I really admire that I’m hoping will be green-lit next year.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://catcalabrese.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/catcalabresemusic/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/catcalabresemusic/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/cat_calabrese_
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@CatCalabreseMusic/
- Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4AtqkoG6vBW1XHyYsIEPMJ?si=ovclLePNTJKLkFOt7lmDbQ
Image Credits
Lindsey Poyar
Jillianne Bartholomew
