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I was at the Rainbow Bar and Grill on Sunset (Los Angeles) where I interviewed the lovely Kina Grannis after a wonderful performance. She's a young singer/songwriter whose melodies drip like honey. Here she is talking about her singing career path.

A: We want to get to know you a little better…so describe in your own words what kind of music you play?
KG: That’s a question I’m not good at answering. Genre-wise, it’s hard to classify. I guess honest, real, mellow music…not trying to be loud, showy, or pretentious.
A: I read your bio, and it said you got your first guitar at age 16. How did you know that was what you were passionate about? What was the defining moment?
KG: When was it [defining moment]? Really I knew all my life. I was compelled to sing like all around the house. I was in high school, and I went to see the Citrus Choir performing their Christmas set in LA with my family. Something hit me and I just started crying. I went home and downloaded karaoke tracks to sing along to. Then after I had my little karaoke phase, that's when I discovered we had a guitar stowed away under the piano, and I realized that it could be my savior from my awkward karaoke recordings. Then I locked myself away in my room, started teaching myself, and everything just clicked.
A: Where do the ideas for you songs come from?
KG: Most of them are things that happen. I draw from friends and family. Observation.
A: So I know you’re from SC…I saw you perform once at Ground Zero…how was it being such a young artist trying to balance school and your career?
KG: It was difficult at times, yet so enjoyable. It was well worth the extra organization. When I had to write papers, singing kept me sane. It’s my sanctuary.
A: Did you like performing at SC?
KG: I did! Ground Zero is one of my favorite places. I had a tiny USC following, and it was comfortable.
A: Was it anything like your 1st show…tell me a little about it.
KG: My first show was right after graduating high school. It was at this coffee shop where I was working. Well, people at school knew me as they shy girl so when word got around that I was singing, a bunch of people were shocked. The show lasted 2 hours which was way too long in retrospect. I was so shaky and had many awkward pauses. But it was really fun! Then when I finished, one person came up to me and handed me a rose. Then more people came up and handed me roses. All I could say was WOW. It sure made up for the awkward pain.
A: My blog is about motivation and inspiration. What motivates you to succeed in this career?
KG: One thing: something I love to do and I’m passionate about. If you’re that passionate, it’s only fair to yourself that you go for it. I get emails from fans saying how a song has helped them. I sing for people and when I can help and connect like that, then what I do makes it worthwhile.
A: What do you see as possible next steps for you?
KG: Well, I moved to Austin to be part of this band. It goes through mid-December so I will be mainly focusing on the band. Once I’m back in LA, I’m recording a new album, one that I’m 100% proud of. I’m taking it to the next level.
A: What are the most rewarding aspects of singing/least rewarding?
KG: Most rewarding—when I hear from people that I helped or inspired them. People say “that’s how I’m feeling.” Also, the fact that I’m doing what I want to do is very rewarding.
Least rewarding—a year ago I probably would have said that performing is hard. I was so down on myself. I’d get caught up in how I messed up on that chord. But now I’m definitely more comfortable.
A: What would you advise people who want to do what you are doing?
KG: I would advise people to keep going especially in these realms. A million people want to do it, but if you’re passionate, don’t listen to the nay-sayers, and keep improving, then you’ll be good.
A: Is this a full time gig? If yes, would you trade it in for a nice paying job with benefits?
KG: It is a full time gig, now that school is over. However, I was going to get a part time job but instead I got a gig in Austin. Music is finally a priority, and I hope to keep it up.
I don’t think so [trade in music]…as long as I have the means and until I’m homeless, I wouldn’t trade my music for a nice paying job with benefits. I get too much out of it!

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For more about Kina Grannis, please visit www.myspace.com/kinagrannis and www.kinagrannis.com

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