Cat Burns is making waves in the music scene with her heartfelt, stripped-back pop sound. Often compared to breezy, easy-listening artists, Burns brings a weight and depth to her music that resonates deeply with listeners. In a recent interview, she delves into her journey, her creative vision, and the importance of authenticity in her artistry.
From a young age, Cat Burns possessed a clear vision for her music. While briefly swayed by external advice to experiment with different sounds, she quickly realized the paramount importance of creative control. “I definitely got rid of for a couple of years, where I let other people use their expertise,” Cat Burns admits, “But doing that made me realise how much I do need to be in control.” This realization led her back to her core passion: stripped-down music. Embracing her gut feeling proved instantly successful. Cat Burns recognized a gap in the pop landscape, noting the underrepresentation of black female artists playing guitar in the genre. “I knew that there was a demand for that,” she explains, highlighting a desire for diverse representation in pop music beyond traditional R&B and rap categories. Even in her early teens, Cat Burns’ musical direction was clear. Though she experimented with R&B, her heart remained firmly rooted in stripped pop, a genre where she felt a profound connection.
The Power of Authentic Storytelling
Authenticity isn’t just a buzzword for Cat Burns; it’s the cornerstone of her songwriting. She believes in crafting songs that transcend trends, focusing on universal human experiences. “I try my best to write about things that won’t ever go out of style,” Cat Burns states. Themes of breakups, friendship struggles, and relatable emotional challenges form the bedrock of her lyrics. This commitment to authenticity, she believes, ensures her music’s longevity and continued relevance. By being vulnerable and genuine in her songwriting, Cat Burns creates a lasting connection with her audience.
From Covers to Original Tracks: A Songwriting Evolution
Like many artists, Cat Burns began her musical journey by singing covers and sharing them online. However, songwriting was always a part of her artistic expression, starting as early as age 13. While she playfully acknowledges her early songs as “awful,” this formative period was crucial for her development. Mentorship played a key role in her growth. A friend’s producer father recognized her potential and provided invaluable guidance. “He saw that in me at 14,” Cat Burns recalls, emphasizing the encouragement that fueled her passion. Through consistent practice and exploration, her songwriting skills evolved. She honed her unique style and refined her way of expressing herself through music, leading to the compelling lyrics that define her current work.
“Gorgeous” Lyrics and an Exciting EP on the Horizon
Cat Burns’ lyrical prowess is undeniable, exemplified by lines like “you only call me when you’re drunk,” a sentiment that resonates with many. With an EP release on the horizon, anticipation is building. Cat Burns describes the upcoming project as “very personal,” delving into a range of deeply felt emotions and experiences. The EP tackles themes of anxiety, exploring internal dialogues about self-doubt and the ability to navigate life without constant worry. Another song addresses abandonment and commitment issues, capturing the fear of losing connection even in stable relationships. “We’re Not Kids Anymore,” a particularly poignant track for Cat Burns, explores the bittersweet feeling of drifting apart from childhood friends as life progresses and changes. Mental health and the importance of taking breaks are also prominent themes within the EP, showcasing Cat Burns’ commitment to addressing relatable and important issues in her music.
Building a Career: Live Shows and Future Plans
Having cultivated a significant online following, particularly during lockdown, Cat Burns is now focused on live performances and connecting with audiences in person. “This year is really about building,” she explains, emphasizing the importance of live shows in solidifying her fanbase. With festivals and support tours on the horizon, Cat Burns is eager to build upon her online success and establish herself as a compelling live performer. Her journey is a testament to the power of authenticity, creative control, and connecting with listeners through honest and relatable music.
Cat Burns’ single “Go” is currently available via Since 93/Sony Music. Fans can download and stream it here.
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