With a voice that rivals superstars like Shania Twain and Carrie Underwood, and her keen ear for selecting and writing great songs, April Kry is on the verge of becoming the next big up-and-coming star. Her most recent single, "While We're Young" is another example of her fun personality and insanely catchy pop-country songs. April took some time to answer some questions about her new single and what she'll be up to the next few months.
Aileen James: What was the process of writing "While We're Young"?
April Kry: This song was written at a writing camp for my project a couple years ago at Blackbird studios. It started with a chord progression that Micah brought in and just blossomed from there. It was one of those sessions that just flowed so seamlessly. I walked out feeling incredible about what we had just created.
AJ: Why did you decide to release this song as a single?
AK: I think this song represents a new beginning for me as an artist, and it really says something so important- to cherish every moment and to not be afraid to take risks in love and life.
AJ: What is your favorite part about writing songs?
AK: I love that it's healing. It's healing to write, and it's also healing sometimes to the person listening to the finished product.
AJ: You’ve been very vocal about your love for 90’s country. How have you incorporated themes and sounds from that era into your music?
AK: I do love 90's country, especially the women who dominated that era like Martina, Faith, Shania. We brought in songwriter Stephanie Bentley who's written songs I grew up on like "Breathe" by Faith Hill, and "Concrete Angel" by Martina McBride. For this project I really wanted it to still feel modern production-wise, while still drawing inspiration from those legendary women of 90's country lyrically by telling a story and painting a picture for the listener.
AJ: This song is such an infectious blend of pop and country. What artists from different genres do you listen to, and does that tend to blend into the music you make?
AK: Absolutely! I started out listening to gospel and contemporary Christian music because I grew up singing at church. Then I gradually broadened my horizons and really got into the power singers like Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey and Celine Dion. I actually didn't get into country until I picked up the guitar and started writing. My mom bought me the self titled Martina McBride LP and I fell in love with the story telling and deep meanings to the songs. I knew that's where I wanted to end up. Today I still incorporate those genres and sounds into my music. I think it's really important to pull inspiration from the artists that helped mold you into who you are today.
AJ: Many of your recent singles have been uptempo songs, songs that really make listeners want to get up and dance! But then you also have songs like “Daddy’s Little Girl” that are definitely more emotional. What sort of balance between emotion and fun have you developed, and what’s the difference for you when releasing the two different kinds of songs?
AK: That's one thing I really enjoy about being an artist is that I am able to put out songs that meet the listener right where they are. If they're happy, I have a song for that! Sad? I have one for that, too! Music is so healing and has helped me through some dark times in my life. I am so thankful I get to release songs that have had such an impact on me and hopefully whoever listens to it as well.
AJ: Any plans for an EP soon?
AK: Definitely. Right now I'm just trying to gather the best songs possible that represent me and my sound. Hoping to release more music very soon.
AJ: And finally, anything else I should know about this song or what you’re planning for the coming months?
AK: I'm already starting to plan the music video for it, and I'm SO excited! I'm going to be working with James King who is a genius and incredible director. I'm also looking forward to playing CMA fest and seeing everyone there!
April Kry: This song was written at a writing camp for my project a couple years ago at Blackbird studios. It started with a chord progression that Micah brought in and just blossomed from there. It was one of those sessions that just flowed so seamlessly. I walked out feeling incredible about what we had just created.
AJ: Why did you decide to release this song as a single?
AK: I think this song represents a new beginning for me as an artist, and it really says something so important- to cherish every moment and to not be afraid to take risks in love and life.
AJ: What is your favorite part about writing songs?
AK: I love that it's healing. It's healing to write, and it's also healing sometimes to the person listening to the finished product.
AJ: You’ve been very vocal about your love for 90’s country. How have you incorporated themes and sounds from that era into your music?
AK: I do love 90's country, especially the women who dominated that era like Martina, Faith, Shania. We brought in songwriter Stephanie Bentley who's written songs I grew up on like "Breathe" by Faith Hill, and "Concrete Angel" by Martina McBride. For this project I really wanted it to still feel modern production-wise, while still drawing inspiration from those legendary women of 90's country lyrically by telling a story and painting a picture for the listener.
AJ: This song is such an infectious blend of pop and country. What artists from different genres do you listen to, and does that tend to blend into the music you make?
AK: Absolutely! I started out listening to gospel and contemporary Christian music because I grew up singing at church. Then I gradually broadened my horizons and really got into the power singers like Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey and Celine Dion. I actually didn't get into country until I picked up the guitar and started writing. My mom bought me the self titled Martina McBride LP and I fell in love with the story telling and deep meanings to the songs. I knew that's where I wanted to end up. Today I still incorporate those genres and sounds into my music. I think it's really important to pull inspiration from the artists that helped mold you into who you are today.
AJ: Many of your recent singles have been uptempo songs, songs that really make listeners want to get up and dance! But then you also have songs like “Daddy’s Little Girl” that are definitely more emotional. What sort of balance between emotion and fun have you developed, and what’s the difference for you when releasing the two different kinds of songs?
AK: That's one thing I really enjoy about being an artist is that I am able to put out songs that meet the listener right where they are. If they're happy, I have a song for that! Sad? I have one for that, too! Music is so healing and has helped me through some dark times in my life. I am so thankful I get to release songs that have had such an impact on me and hopefully whoever listens to it as well.
AJ: Any plans for an EP soon?
AK: Definitely. Right now I'm just trying to gather the best songs possible that represent me and my sound. Hoping to release more music very soon.
AJ: And finally, anything else I should know about this song or what you’re planning for the coming months?
AK: I'm already starting to plan the music video for it, and I'm SO excited! I'm going to be working with James King who is a genius and incredible director. I'm also looking forward to playing CMA fest and seeing everyone there!
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