Interview: Kathleen Carnali
Nashville recording artist Kathleen Carnali just released her new song and music video '2020 (Strangely Dim)'. We spoke to Kathleen to find out how the song became even more apt in the wake of the Coronavirus pandemic. Read on to find out all about the track and Kathleen's story.
For those who haven't heard of you before, can you tell us a bit about yourself and how you got involved in making music?
I began doing music professionally when I was only 15 years old. But after having a life changing encounter with Jesus at 18, I gave my whole life and talent exclusively to my Savior. I moved from the Boston area of Massachusetts to Nashville, TN where I recorded my first CD of original songs. I began a three week tour to minister at different churches across the country, which quickly turned into three months! God’s blessing and hand was so evident, that my husband soon quit his job and began managing all of the bookings and tours. It was soon clear that this was going to be full time, all the time.
Tell us about your new single '2020 (Strangely Dim)' and what the inspiration behind it was?
Not long after Covid- 19 came to America, my tour was canceled and I found myself confined at home. I knew that in the midst of so much uncertainty, the need for an unshakable hope was of the essence. Something sparked inside of me, as I glanced down at the lyrics I had written and knew the time and need for “2020 (Strangely Dim)" was now.” I worked tirelessly, day and night, to bring the song to life through music and video. With the rise of the sickness, along with other major concerns like depression, drug deaths, and suicide rates being the highest they’ve been since World War II, there's a dark and vulnerable place that many people find themselves in, who desperately need help to get out. I’m believing for this song to be like a road map, guiding people from a place of hopelessness to finding solace in setting their eyes upon Jesus. It’s only when we look to Him, the problems of this world grow strangely dim.
Do you have plans to release more new music soon?
Yes, I am currently working on my next major release, “Coming Back To Life,” which is set for 22nd May 2020!
What message would you like people to take from your music?
There is hope. There is help.
There is One who gave everything, so that we might know eternal life and have life more abundant.
He is love. His name is Jesus.
And He is the reason why I sing.
How would you describe your style of music and what are your influences?
Growing up, I loved the theater and especially musicals. Seeing how a story paired with song can be so impacting was definitely a benefit and inspiration to me. I would say I listened to musicals as much as, if not more, that any regular pop music at the time. I had never heard of Christian contemporary music until after coming to the Lord at 18. I was blown away that there were others out there who had also given their talents God, and that was such an encouragement to me.
If you could work with any songwriter, who would it be and why?
Definitely my first pick would have been Keith Green. I love his style and unashamed way of bringing the word powerfully through song and connecting it to the people. I am thankful for the legacy he left of God’s goodness and glory. I want my music and songwriting to do the same.
How would you define success in your career as an artist?
I would define it, by fulfilling all that the Lord has called me to do, in regards to my music and ministry.
What is your favorite album of all time?
Well, at one time it would have been Bob Marley’s “Legend”… which shows my affinity for reggae. But now… wow. That is just way to hard to pick!
You're stuck on an island, it's hot, you only have enough battery life left to listen to one song on your phone. What track is it?
There Is A Fountain
What does the next year hold for you?
Releasing lots of new music and videos for sure! Also, learning how to navigate through this post Covid-19 world, where touring is not my everyday life anymore. I will be focusing more on going “live" and connecting with people online and through social media. I just want to remain faithful to the call of God no matter what the circumstances. I hope to see you there!!
