Interview by Carol Wright | Photographer: Curtis Csolak
We got to chat with singer/songwriter Kjersti Long about the advice she has for aspiring musicians, covering “Eleanor Rigby,” and musicians she looks up to.
Do you come from a music-loving family?
Yes, everyone in my family loves music. My Dad and Mom play instruments and my Dad’s family is very involved in acting. From a young age, I was a part of being in musicals and my uncle’s taught acting and Shakespeare, too.
Who are some musicians that you look up to?
A lot of the 80’s rockers; Joan Jett, Ann, and Nancy Wilson, Pat Benatar, Freddie Mercury. My love for the sound of violins, I got from Lindsey Stirling. She is a personal favorite of mine. I actually have a collage on my wall in my room of pictures of all of the great rock musicians and bands. I cover so many of their songs, too.
One thing that’s special about music is that it can connect with people of all ages. Take “Eleanor Rigby” for example, a song you recently covered. What about the song inspired you to cover it?
It was the lyrics that really touched me. It totally described what we were all going through because of the pandemic.
Do you have a particular songwriting process?
Usually, my Dad finds a cool chord progression on his guitar and then we’ll write the lyrics. But other times we will create a cool verse or chorus first and then we add the music. It kind of depends on the mood.
Tell our readers about “Not Your Princess.” What message are you trying to get across through the song?
I’m trying to help people know that they don’t have to fit in the stereotypical boxes that we get pre-assigned by society. Be who you wanna be.
What advice do you have for aspiring musicians?
I have a quote, ‘hard work surpasses talent if talent doesn’t work hard.’ I am not sure who originally said it, but my Dad reminds me of this and it has become something I live by. Work hard and enjoy it, too. The work shouldn’t feel like a chore. It should be fun and something you’re passionate about, it should make you feel good and make you happy. The time spent will not feel like work and ultimately you’ll reach your goals.