Katie Thompson - Katie Thompson Newsletter Interview
11 May 2008 // An interview by Shade
What is the best gig/event you have ever performed at, and why?
One event that stands out in my mind would have to be in 2007 when I went to the Tamworth Music Festival in Australia. There I entered a competition called the Jazzer Quest. People from all over Australia and New Zealand had entered, so I was stoked when I got into the finals. They read out third then second place and I though “bugger, I would’ve liked a placing“, and just as I was about to go grab a beer they called my name out as first place. I was lucky enough to have my family and band members with me to celebrate the event.
What is your favourite NZ venue?
That’d be a tie between the Woodstock Pub and the Red Lion Tavern (Hokitika). They both hold regular jam nights. This is where I got the courage to get up and perform, learnt some good old country music & met many of my mentors/musicians. These venues and guys have made me who I am!
What can we expect to see from you over the next year?
At the moment I’m getting ready to record my first album at Sunset Records so I’m finalising which of my own songs I want on their and it’ll be all go very shortly. At the moment I’ve got two demo songs on my Myspace site. After recording I hope to go back Tamworth Australia to promote my album and when I get back I will start promoting it here in New Zealand.
What other NZ musicians or bands would you like to see more of, and why?
I’m based on the West Coast of the South Island and unfortunately hardly any of the big New Zealand acts come our way, so really all of them!!! I would love to see Anika Moa back this way, Atlas to do a gig at the old Regent Theatre, OpShop, Goodnight Nurse, Scribe, Elemeno P etc. I’m into every genre, so bring ‘em on!!
If you could, what rumour would you start about yourself?
That I’m already famous in Australia and if New Zealand doesn’t hurry up and claim me as their own the Auzzies will take me!!!
What advice would you like to give to other aspiring musicians?
If you’ve got a passion for music - stick to it! Practice up on your instrument and/or voice and learn from other musicians. Some of the best advice I’ve been given has been from an old muso at the end of a gig. Music may not make you rich, but would you have it any other way? You can’t buy happiness.
About Katie Thompson
Katie Thompson is a versatile and prolific alt-country artist hailing from the West Coast.
Her 3rd studio album Bittersweet saw her as a finalist for Best Country Song & Best Country Artist at the 2020 NZ Country Music Awards. This has solidified her position as a prominent figure in the New Zealand country music scene.
Her accomplishments extend to her impressive stage presence, having opened for legendary artists such as Sir Elton John in 2011 and recently captivating audiences as the opening act for Don McLean at the Christchurch Town Hall in May 2023.
Visit the muzic.net.nz Profile for Katie Thompson