Pat Kennedy is a singer-songwriter based in Brooklyn.
In this interview, we discuss influences, the newest project, and more.
Full Q&A, links, and a stream of Pat’s self-titled EP below.
Let’s dive a little deeper into You, the artist and your music. What attracted you to this genre(s) or style(s)?
Folk music is such an intimate genre. It’s conducive to dive bars and coffee shops and living rooms and rooftop shows, what could be better than that? I love chatting with singer-songwriters after shows, getting to know the artists in my neighborhood and in my community. I like conversational lyrics that describe seemingly mundane rituals and experiences in a way that is relatable and poignant. And plus, living in New York City, guitar is by far the most practical instrument to carry around the city on the subway.
How long have you been creating and sharing your music with the public?
Since I was a kid. But this is my first formally recorded EP as a solo artist.
Who or what influences your playing and/or writing? Also, what motivates you to keep going?
When I start writing a song I tend to get compulsive about finishing it. It’s borderline unhealthy, in that I’ll put off meals and stay up too late and not do laundry for too long and refrain from social interaction until I have at least a full draft and regain enough peace of mind to re-enter the outside world again. The whole process drives me a bit crazy but it’s all very satisfying in the end.
Were you trying to accomplish anything specific on this new project? Creatively or otherwise?
In retrospect, I think of this EP as an attempt to make sense of young adulthood — relationships, growing up, feeling sometimes lost at sea, figuring out what I want to do and who I want to be. Right around when I finished recording the EP I turned 25 and my old family dog died, which somehow felt like a definitive mark of the end of childhood. The specific experiences are mine but of course the themes of drift and discovery and searching for home have deep roots in American folk music.
What was the last song you listened to?
“Where I’m Going” by the Wild Reeds. They’re amazing!
Which do you prefer? Vinyl? CDs? MP3s?
I love the intimacy of vinyl but in practice I’m too poor and move too often to actually collect records. So I use Spotify, YouTube, Soundcloud, blogs, and whatever friends and family send my way.
How about this one…. Do you prefer Spotify? Apple Music? Bandcamp? Or something else? Why?
My view is, the more platforms the merrier. It’s a golden age for sharing and listening to music.
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?
Some types of music are perfect for a celebratory wedding reception, and other songs are better suited to a 3am drive on the highway. It’s important to find people in the appropriate state of mind and play to the right audience.
Do you gig, tour or perform? Do you ever live stream? Where can music lovers see you live?
I perform regularly around New York City and I’ll be touring in Chicago, San Francisco, and Boston later this summer. I post all my shows on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/patkennedyplaysmusic/home
Where is the best place to connect with you online? Discover more of your music?
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/patkennedyplaysmusic/home
Any last thoughts? Shout outs? Words of wisdom?
Thanks for having me on MTM!
