Chit Chatting with Kimberly Caldwell

Written by: Jill Sheets

Kimberly Caldwell

Image credit: Matt Beard

Recently we had the honor of interviewing singer-songwriter Kimberly Caldwell. Her new album, “Without Regret,” should be out in June. Continue to read and learn more about Kimberly and her new album.

R: When did you start to sing? Was singing something that you have always wanted to do?

K: I have always known I wanted to be a performer. My first time falling in love with being on stage was at age five and I haven’t stopped since. Growing up, I traveled the country singing and when I was eleven, I started performing two shows a day in a production show in Branson, Mo. Entertaining has always been a part of who I am.

R: Tell us about being a contestant on “American Idol.” What was the best and worse part about doing the show?

K: It seems like a thousand years ago but it definitely made a mark in my life and career. The best part was the tour. Fifty something cities in two months. It was bananas! We all really got to bond together being on a bus 24/7 and we had a blast, to say the least! Worst part was not being able to share these unforgettable experiences with my family and friends.

R: What was it like performing at the Grand Ole Opry?

K: When I was thirteen, I sang for George and Barbara Bushes 50th wedding anniversary and opened the show for some of my idols like Vince Gill, Amy Grant and The Oak Ridge Boys. I was pretty nervous but my mom held my hand until I went on. It was definitely something I am still very proud of today.

R: You were also a five-time junior vocalist winner on “Star Search,” what was that like?

K: Star Search was my everything as a kid. It was what American Idol is today to young singers. I couldn’t believe it was really happening and I loved Orlando where we filmed the show.

R: You are also a song-writer. How long have you been writing? What is your writing process? Do you start with the words first? What was your first song about?

K: I started writing when I was a lot younger but I was always too nervous to really put my ideas out there. My inspirations, like DianeWarren and Melissa Etheridge helped me to jump over to the fearless side and just be vulnerable. It feels so good to have people really connect and accept my music. A writing process for me is all about story-telling and unloading your feelings onto paper. I’m sure my first song was probably about a silly boy. That’s some good material to work with.

R: Tell us about your new album “Without Regret.”

K: I try to always live with no regrets and it’s also something I try to teach all of my little sisters. This album has been a goal of mine for a very long time and it’s about being human and rising from the fall.

Kimberly Caldwell

Picture credit: Matt Beard

R: All the songs on the album are great, but what is your favorite song and why?

K: “Say Love” is my favorite on the album and probably the song I’m most proud of co-writing. The lyrics and melody just poured out of me and it was like therapy. Love is a scary word but sometimes you just need to hear it.

R: How would you describe the music on the album?

K: It’s emotionally vulnerable but still empowering at the same time. I allowed myself to really go there with these songs and be completely open so the listeners could truly relate.

R: What song is your favorite to perform on stage and why?

K: I really enjoy jamming with the band to “Going Going Gone.” I’m so outta breath by the end because it’s so filled with sass and attitude.

R: Are there any plans for an up and coming tour?

K: Stay Tuned!

R: If you could tour with anyone in the world, who would it be?

K: Melissa Etheridge because I have always looked up to her as a strong female artist and I think I could learn a lot about being authentic by sharing the stage with her.

R: What singers and bands can be found on your ipod or mp3 player? What is your favorite song by each one?

K: Right now, my jam is “Cooler Than Me” by Mike Posner. I love The Judds, Annie Lennox, Heart, Etta James, and Kisha Cole. I love listening to all types of music.

R: Who has been your biggest influence?

K: I grew up in Texas on country music, so Wynonna Judd and Reba McEntire had a huge influence on me growing up. But, Melissa Etheridge is, without a doubt, my biggest influence. I have also been inspired by Ann Wilson of Heart and, of course, Diane Warren as a songwriter and all-around inspiring woman.

Kimberly Caldwell

Picture credit: Matt Beard

R: What are some of your future goals?

K: I have way too many to list, but my main goals are to tour the world and be a good mom one day in the future.

R: Tell us about your obsessions with flea markets. What do you like to look for?

K: I live for vintage clothes and antiques. I love one of kind things that have a story behind them. My house is filled with my favorite findings and special things I’ve found over the years. And I just truly enjoy the process of shopping or searching for something you don’t even know you’re looking for.

R: What is the best advice you have ever gotten and by who?

K: My Grandma always says “Always remember everything happens for a reason.” It makes rough times seem easier and happy times seem even more special.

R: What advice would you give teenage girls?

K: Listen to your mother! She actually knows what she’s talking about. One day she just might be your best friend.

R: You have great clothing style. What is your favorite thing to wear?

K: I love wearing my black leggings and vintage boots with a baggy flowy shirt and lots of accessories.

Kimberly Caldwell

Picture credit: Matt Beard

R: What are five things people may not know about you?

K:  1. I have five little sisters that are my sweet angels

2. Me and my sister, Kristy, want to open our own animal sanctuary one day

3. The only picture on my nightstand is of my grandma as a girl

4. I love bamboo

5. I truly enjoy cleaning and I get a high off of it

R: What has been your favorite memory so far?

K: My favorite memory so far in life is on an Alaskan cruise with my family. When we docked, we took a helicopter to a glacier and went dog-sledding. It was so liberating!

R: What is you most embarrassing moment?

K: I don’t really get embarrassed too often, but probably walking out naked from the bathroom not knowing my best friend’s boyfriend was there. I screamed and then dropped to the floor so quick!

R: What is it like to be able to communicate with your fans? What is the best thing a fan has ever done or said to you?

K: The fans are my boss. They decide whether or not I get to keep performing by showing me their constant support. I have very loyal fans that keep me going everyday and remind me that I’m where I’m supposed to be. Their words of encouragement mean the world to me.

R: Kimberly, thank you for the interview. Have a great day.

Here are a list of Kimberly Caldwell’s social networking sites and official website.

http://www.kimberlycaldwell.com/

http://www.myspace.com/kimberlycaldwellofficial

http://www.facebook.com/KimberlyCaldwellOfficial

http://twitter.com/_kimcaldwell

Tags: American Idol, Caldwell, grand, interview, Kimberly, ole, opry, regret, singer, songwriter, Without