Unplugged Lounge Conversations with Katie Dauson

From heartfelt lyrics to vintage vinyl vibes, Katie Dauson is an artist who brings authenticity and soul to every note she plays. In this exclusive interview with Sonic Sisters Magazine, Katie opens up about her path from shy open mic performer to confident songwriter, the artists who’ve shaped her sound, and the deeply personal battles that fuel her creativity. With a new single out and a clear love for music’s golden eras, Katie is as grounded as she is inspiring — and she’s only just getting started. We’re thrilled to catch up with Katie Dauson.

Thanks for chatting with us at Sonic Sisters Magazine! Can you share a bit about how your journey into music began?

It all began with going up on stage at a local open mic. I had been playing guitar as a hobby for a long time, and always wanted to be able to stand up in front of people and entertain them, but for the longest time, I didn’t have the courage to do that. One day, I decided to change that, and I gave it a try playing other people’s music.

Who have been some of the most significant influences on your musical style?

There are so many artists that have influenced me that it’s hard to name them all. But, I’ll name a few: the Beatles, Bob Dylan, and the Alan Parsons Project.

And which female musicians or women in the music industry have inspired your journey?

Again, there are so many amazing women in the music industry who have been an inspiration. I would have to say that Wanda Jackson, Dianne Warren, Orianthi, and Joni Mitchell. The list goes on.

How do your personal experiences shape your songwriting, and what do you hope listeners take away from those connections?

I feel like sometimes, I’ve been to hell and back in my personal life, and because of that, I do struggle with mental health issues every day. However, even though I fight those demons every day, I also know that there’s hope, and I put that into my music. I hope that listeners take away the fact that they’re not alone and that I can bring joy to their lives.

Congratulations on your brand-new single 'Rock Along With You' - what inspired this particular song?

Thank you! It’s the second song off my new album, Pure Katie. It’s a true story about going to a rock concert and having a good time. Everything in the song really did happen at that concert at the Rivoli in Toronto on November 1st 2024.

What song (not your own) has had the biggest influence on you and why?

No one song has ever influenced me by itself. I listen to a lot of music on vinyl, and I listen to multiple artists and genres.

Is there a song in your catalog that holds a special personal meaning for you? We'd love to hear the story or inspiration behind it.

There is no one song from my catalog that has a special meaning to me. It’s not about me; it’s about my listeners, and I hope my music can make them happy, even if it’s just for a few minutes.

What are some of the aspirations you have for your music moving forward?

I just want more people to hear my music and to get some joy out of it. The more people who hear and enjoy my music from different places, the more I can go out and perform my music and make them happy.

What advice would you give to emerging female artists who are just starting out in the music world?

Listen to as much music as you can from the 50s, 60s, 70, and some into the 80s. It’s amazing what you can learn from the greatest eras of music and some of the greatest artists ever.

Before we wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to say to our readers?

Just try to take joy in everyday little things. Don’t let naysayers keep you down, and never give up on yourself.

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