Kyle Motsinger is a Singer/Songwriter and (sometimes) Actor originally from Central Illinois. Kyle has performed his original music in such venues as The Duplex Cabaret Theatre, The Bitter End, Bar Thalia at Symphony Space, and Leftfield. His debut album, “Far Away,” will be released this Spring featuring all original songs and a full band!
In this interview spotlight, we chat with Kyle about his influences, navigating the digital music world, his new project and more.
Full Q&A along with links and streams below.
Let’s dive a little deeper into Kyle Motsinger, the artist and your music. What attracted you to these genres and styles?
I heard many genres and styles of music growing up. My parents loved classic rock from the 60’s and 70’s, my brother loved 80’s hair bands, and my mother and I would listen to songs like K.D. Lang’s ‘Constant Craving’ and No Doubt’s ‘Don’t Speak’ in the 90’s while she drove me to play practice. Years later I became obsessed with pop music, alternative music, and the scores to musicals. Today I’m listening to anything from Tori Amos to Lady Gaga. The styles and genres that I wander through in my music are really an amalgamation of everything I mentioned and more. I love blending genres and blurring lines.
How long have you been creating and sharing your music with the public?
Well, my debut as a singer/songwriter was really my Freshman Year of high school. I wrote an incredibly dramatic and angsty song called, ‘Ghosts from the Past.’ I never lived that down. At least it was catchy! I also wanted to write musicals for a long time and I wrote a lot of unfinished melodies. Some of those have made it onto my upcoming album. When I moved to New York l wrote a very funny cabaret song about being a Ginger called ‘Pity Me.’ It wasn’t until a few years ago that I started writing introspective pop/rock songs. Two years ago I premiered 10 songs at the Duplex Cabaret Theatre. Most of those and a few more will be on my debut album!
Who or what influences your playing and writing? Also, what motivates you to keep going?
As I mentioned, the writing is inspired by a diverse group of artists. When I play I channel artists like Tori Amos, Billy Joel, and Ben Folds. I’m not shy off of the stage but I’m quiet and I like to listen and take everything in. When I’m at the piano I’m ON! I become a rock star and throw myself into the music like I’m fighting a battle. I really try to communicate the stories of the songs I’ve written. I want the words to sync in. Each time someone tells me a song speaks to them I’m inspired to continue. I want to write music that can move people. I want to keep writing music if it can affect people positively.
Were you trying to accomplish anything specific with “Midwest Boy”? Creatively or otherwise?
I wanted to write an anthem for a midwestern boy living in a big city. It’s a fierce declaration that the ‘big, bad city’ won’t beat me down. I wanted the song to really rock out and be an explosive beginning to the album. I’m very proud of it.
What was the last song you listened to?
Systemagic by Goldfrapp
Which do you prefer? Vinyl? CDs? MP3s?
I prefer MP3 but I miss the days of putting a CD in my car and singing along. I’d love to get a record player.
How about this one…. Do you prefer Spotify? Apple Music? Bandcamp? Or something else? Why?
You know, I only really use Spotify and not that often. I would much rather download music on iTunes and have it to play on my commute. I might be a bit old fashioned.
Other than the digital era overwhelming us with access to an abundance of music, what are one or two of the biggest challenges you face when trying to attract listeners to your music?
It’s hard getting people to pay attention to what you’re doing or releasing. There’s so much going on and everyone is so busy. It’s hard to convince people that you’re worth listening to or watching. I wish I knew a shortcut to building a fan base but I think it’s something that will take time and patience.
Do you gig, tour or perform? Do you ever live stream? Where can music lovers see you live?
I’ve just started performing more to get ready for the release on my album, ‘Far Away.’ I’ll be performing an album release show with my full band on June 9th at 9:30pm at the Duplex Cabaret Theatre, New York’s famous cabaret venue. Tickets are $10 in advance at www.theduplex.com or $15 at the door. There’s a two drink minimum and they make some tasty cocktails there! I’m also really excited that we’ll be performing a set at the 20th Anniversary of Folsom Street East, the outdoor fetish/kink festival on 27th Street in NYC. I’m looking forward to booking more shows and touring in the future!
Where is the best place to connect with you online? Discover more of your music?
You can check out my artist page at www.facebook.com/officialkylemotsinger or my website at kylemotsinger.com! I also love posting pics on Instagram. Look up @kylemotsinger for pics of my adventures!
My YouTube channel is getting busier now with music videos so check me out. I’ll be the tall ginger being goofy in front of the camera!
Any last thoughts? Shout outs? Words of wisdom?
Download ‘Midwest Boy’ on iTunes, Apple Music, and stream on Spotify or YouTube and look for my debut album on June 9th! I think you’ll enjoy it!
