Catlea Has A Powerful Connection To Music & Details Her Passion
Intro:
Singer-songwriter Catlea is an artist from Cincinatti, Ohio who’s truly passionate about music. Their latest EP release “Bones” came out this past Halloween & has been adored by music fans all over. In general, Catlea has a unique ability to blend multiple genres & styles to create a true form of artistic expression. With this deep connection to music, millions of listeners can directly empathize with the real-world stories told in songs like “Lying” or the EP’s title track. Before reading our full conversation & learning more about Catlea below, you should follow them today @CatleaCreates & visit the official website online.
Meet: Catlea
Me: What originally got you into making music when you first started?
Catlea: My first memories are about music. When I create music I’m fulfilling my purpose. Time passes in 60 bpm, sometimes in 4/4, other times in 2/4 or 6/8. The tempo never changes. The time signature does. This is how I see life, in beats, scales, chords, and progressions. When I create, or when I am around people who are creating, I feel as though I belong.
Wonderful! From there, how did you develop your current stage name? Has it ever changed?
Originally, before I recorded my first song, I planned on going by the stage name Pistol after Ancient Pistol in Henry V, but that became problematic from an Internet search perspective. So, I came up with Catlea.
How would you describe your style of music for new listeners reading now?
I have fairly eclectic tastes covering a range of musical styles, but my main genres are indie-pop, alternative, rock, and EDM.
Who are some of your favorite artists or producers to collaborate with while working in the studio?
I've been fortunate to work with great people over the last few years including producer Jason Boshoff (Ed Sheeran, Josh Groban, David Gray, Rufus Wainwright) and Oscar Garcia-Bragado of Room to Studios in Barcelona, Spain. One song ‘Crumbling’ on my upcoming album was produced by the multi-talented musician and producer, Claudia Mills (BITTERS). I also worked with drummer Wally Reyes Jr (Chicago, Steve Linwood, Santana) who is a wonderful person. And, my bandmate is guitarist Max Shirley who is one of my best friends.
It’s truly a blessing to meet other creatives who you can share the process with! Now, what was the first song you've ever made?
Yes, I wrote my first song, 'Breathe Away' while in St. Augustine for my cousin's wedding. The place I was staying had a view of the water and I picked up my ukulele and it just came to me. 'Breathe Away' is a fan favorite at live shows.
Oh wow! Not many other artists can say that about their first songs haha. Outside of music itself, what are some other hobbies or talents you have?
I love traveling, learning new languages, designing my own cover art, and trying new restaurants.
Nice! On the topic of music again, how would you describe your typical studio setting & experience for the readers?
I am in Barcelona Spain at Room to Studios working with my producer and their in-house band, Bives. I consider Jason and Oscar part of my "found family". They are extremely talented, creative, and funny. I'm a big fan of humor.
What’s been the biggest challenge so far during your journey?
I love being a musician—the writing, recording, performing, collaborating with other musicians, meeting new people, traveling—all of it. There are challenges of course— I’ve had to work hard to be confident in my own abilities regardless of whether the feedback I receive is praise or criticism. But it always comes back to the music in my soul.
That’s great to hear! I’m sure many will be inspired by that statement honestly. Furthermore, is there any advice you would give to someone else considering getting into music?
Practice your craft and stay the course. The path to success is a long road with many pitfalls and distractions so surround yourself with people you trust.
And finally, what’s next for you that readers should expect? The new Bones EP has been quite a treat for the fans!
Yes, I just released an EP called 'Bones' which contains four songs from my upcoming "Language Barrier" album that comes out in January 2025. I'll be touring and also doing a showcase in London in March, and hopefully playing some festivals.
