11 Questions to a Nashville Musician: Kate Klim

Kate Klim“Something Green” is a new album “Kickstarted” by Nashville singer-songwriter Kate Klim that will drop on March 4. Since taking a break following the birth of her two sons, this is Kate’s first record since 2014’s “100 Million Years.” The 2010 Kerrville New Folk winner calls the upcoming LP “a collection of ten songs about new growth and new terrain.”

You can watch a friendly Kate alone at her electric piano presenting some of the new songs during  this special Kickstarter Kickoff Show. On the upcoming release, Kate’s keyboard-driven sound is beautifully embellished to match the hope she shares in her songs.

Thanks, Kate, for joining the 11 Questions alumni. We look forward to seeing you get out to support the new record.

 

Where are you from originally, when did you move to Nashville and why?

I was born outside Chicago and spent my grade school years there. Then my family moved to Downingtown, PA which is what I usually refer to as my hometown. There were definitely a few stops before settling in Nashville. I was in Boston for college through my 20s (which will always be one of my favorite places in the world) and even a short run in DC.

I came to Nashville for just a summer at first, in 2008. Someone said “oh, you’re going to fall in love with it and move here” and they were absolutely right. I fell in love with the music community, the food, the hills, the size of the town, and so much more and moved here in 2009.

What are the first and the last records you bought, and where did you buy them? Were they CD, vinyl or digital?

First ever? It was a much beloved cassette of The Bangles’ Everything album which included “Eternal Flame”. I’ve always had a thing for sad ballads. I believe I got it in my Christmas stocking. I still love some 80’s music: The Bangles, Cyndi Lauper, and Crowded House. That sonic feel definitely found its way onto the new album.

The most recent album I bought (digitally, although I’m about to buy a record player and quite excited about it) was actually the soundtrack to the Bo Burnham Inside special. It’s billed as a comedy special, which he filmed alone during the pandemic. But man, if some of those songs weren’t masterpieces of social commentary. And the occasional super low brow song to lighten the mood.

First and last live concerts that you’ve seen?

My first concert ever was Lollapalooza when I was 12. And the lineup was nuts: Smashing Pumpkins, Beastie Boys, The Breeders, and a bunch of other 90’s acts at the heights of their careers. I was convinced I was going to be on the news for being that young at such an epic event and already had answers ready for questions like “You’re 12? And at Lollapalooza? How can you possibly be so cool?” Alas, I was not on the news. But the concert was great.

The most recent concert I went to was here in Nashville. Mary Bragg and Mark Erelli played at The 5 Spot, and it was a great night of killer lyrics in a venue I hadn’t been in since pre-COVID.

Whose star should be added to the Music City Walk of Fame?

My vote is for Jason Isbell. He’s an incredible, incredible songwriter. Really, gut-punch after gut-punch. And also, someone who seems true to himself in his music, and outside his music. I always respect that.

Where do you go in Nashville for coffee and pizza?

Ugly Mugs is my spot for coffee. When the weather is nice, I’ll sit outside and soak up the sun. They’re just about the friendliest folks. And Five Points Pizza is my go-to spot. My kids now ask for is specifically on Pizza Night.

What’s your favorite record to ever come out of Nashville?

Oh, picking my favorite ANYTHING is always a struggle. I can say my recent favorite was Jill Andrews’s Thirties album, which was recommended to me while I was going through my own divorce. Her voice and songs resonated so much. I would hike around Bells Bend Park listening to it.

Where’s the best place to eat late night after a show?

Most of the places open late are bars so it would probably be some good bar. It’s a little on the fancy side, but a new bar called Henry James just opened in my neighborhood and has the perfect combination of amazing mood lighting, fancy cocktails, and delicious carbs.

The Bluebird calls and asks you to host an “In the Round.” Pick three local songwriters to join you.

I have played Bluebird rounds with my friend Robby Hecht, and he’s an incredible songwriter. So definitely him. Liz Longley is actually from my hometown in PA, and she’s fantastic. I’ve only played a show with her once and it was years ago. And I’ve written a few songs with Amy Speace. She’s great and would love to dust some of those off with her at the Bluebird.

What are your favorite music venues to play in town?

The Bluebird for sure, because of the pin-drop listening room atmosphere. And the Bowery Vault on the East Side is a teeny tiny spot where they really care about good songs, good sound, and making the artists feel welcome.

Name a musician who you’d like to see move here.

I’m such a Phoebe Bridgers fan these days. I’d love for her to move here, even if only to get to see her play more local shows or to run into her at Trader Joes.

Finally, what’s in your musical future?

I’m really excited for my new album to come out in March. It was a labor of love that took a few years, partially because the final stages of recording pivoted to being from my home during COVID. The initial plan was to tour and promote the album with my friend Andrew Delaney, who also produced the album. Hopefully we can still plan for that in late spring or summer 2022.

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