Nashville-based alternative pop/rock artist Kitty Coen releases her debut album Hellcat on 30 April, with new single Yellow Light out now. We asked her the BIG questions . . .
Emerging from the vibrant music scene of Austin, Texas, Coen is a rising singer-songwriter known for her blend of indie pop, alternative rock and country western. Her music has been referred to as 'western witch rock'.
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The title and the album's themes are derived from the word's definition, and its ties to societal rejection of women deemed "witches." "At one time the word 'witch' was not negative but was applied to women who worked in holistic medicine to heal people with illnesses," Kitty says.
"Through time, the church detested these women because it argued with divine greatness and ultimately went against the church."
She adds, "They began hunting and killing any woman that fit this `description’ consisting of any woman who appeared educated, attractive, tempting, or dominant in any way.
"I believe that this album shows the progression of a woman harnessing her anger and frustrations with the world and utilizing them to create magic, love and light."
Speaking about Yellow Light, a nostalgia-soaked recollection of a first love, she says, "it showcases the alchemy of my music and how I have used the fire I have in me to harness love and magic instead of stew in my anger towards the world and ultimately the patriarchy."
Tell us three things about yourself . . .
I was raised in Texas, I am a bit of a recluse, and I am an artist in all senses of the word.
How would you describe your music?
The music has been coined "western witch rock" by fans, which I love. I've always set out to make rock music with a western gothic flare. Some songs are dark and stormy while others are warm and soft but they all feel like a form of spell casting to me.
Who are your musical inspirations?
I am most inspired by films when it comes to making my music. I think in terms of colour and setting so I believe movies (specifically ones with a strict colour palette) help me to write and dream things up.
What was the first gig you ever went to?
First show I went to was Hilary Duff at the Dallas Texas rodeo and the first show I ever played was in Austin Texas at SXSW in 2019.
What was the first record you ever bought?
Fly by The Chicks
What’s your favourite song right now?
ALL ABOUT ME by lilyisthatyou.
Favourite lyric of all time?
"We have nothing to lose, nothing to gain, nothing we desired anymore - except to make our lives into a work of art." - Lana Del Rey.
If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Little Wing by Stevie Ray Vaughan.
Where can people find your music/more information?
All streaming platforms or my Linktree. TikTok and Instagram.
Alan Corr
