It’s not often that an artist allows fans full control over a release. Usually, fans are kept in the dark until the very last second, trying to grasp what they can from carefully curated social media posts. It’s not often that an artist cultivates a wholly symbiotic relationship with their listeners, but then again, it’s not often that an artist like Katie Jayne comes along.
Country music singer-songwriter Katie Jayne is a refreshing rebellion against the status quo of the music industry. Nothing epitomises this more than her new single, SOS. A tongue in cheek, no-nonsense look at ‘adulting’, SOS is upbeat and relatable, with a melody that you can’t help but hum along to. The title cleverly alludes both to the notion of asking for help, as well as standing for the catchy tag of the song: “I only smoke on a Saturday”.
And ask for help is precisely what Katie Jayne did. Taking to her online community, Kate’s Mates, Katie Jayne was able to involve her fans in every step of the production. Live video streaming ensured that Kates Mates became more than just Katie Jayne’s online community. They became her live, in-studio, production partners.
“We got stuck on two versions of the song. My producer and I couldn’t choose which one was better for release,” says Katie Jayne. “I gave Kate’s Mates full control at this point, asking them to listen to both and cast their vote. They unanimously chose the second version we recorded - the one I was thinking of shelving! That is how important my community are to me. After all, the music is for them”.
In a society that can feel more disconnected than ever, Katie Jayne subverts expectations and connects directly with her fans. Weekly live videos, frequent social media engagement, and honest behind the scenes insights into the country music industry ensure that Katie Jayne is the name on everyone’s lips – and that’s before they even hear her sing.
SOS perfectly represents Katie Jayne’s artistry: catchy, fan-led, and down to earth. So next time you’re out in the smoker’s area, have a look around and see if you can spot Katie Jayne for a chat. Do make sure it’s a Saturday, though.
SOS can be streamed on Spotify and Apple Music, or purchased on iTunes and GooglePlay.
Catch my podcast interview with Katie here
Tess Barnes © 2020 Visit website
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