Check Out Kat Velasco’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kat Velasco. 

Hi Kat, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
From as far back as I can remember I was involved in musical theatre, dance, and pageants. I absolutely loved performing in any capacity. I have always been known as a very social person so in my early teens I drifted away from music and decided to pursue cheerleading. Living in the moment and enjoying what was directly in front of me at the time was very important during in my high school years. As I moved into my college years and twenties, I know it probably sounds cliché, (hint, my first single Cliché Country Song) I could not shake the feeling that I had a story to tell. As I started navigating through relationships, life experiences, and especially heartbreak, that feeling largely intensified, leading me to start journaling my experiences. I was in what I thought was a deep and meaningful relationship with big future plans that ended badly. The outlet of journaling and music was simply my form of therapy. This led to the point where I started pouring myself into my writing, I couldn’t stop thinking about how others go through similar life challenges and I had a strong need to share. I remember waiting three months before sharing any of my writing because it felt so scary to share such personal and raw emotion. When I finally shared my music with others, people flipped out and the feedback was extremely unexpected in the most positive way. 

Suddenly, everything in my life just started to click. The people that what felt like just fell into my life throughout my musical journey, continued to remind me that sharing my talents with the world is exactly what I am supposed to be doing. I was introduced to Kenny McWilliams at Archer Avenues Studio, who produced my first six songs and we really connected musically. Then, in a relatively short period of time, God placed the most wonderful people in my life. Greg Keys and Company, a very established band in Charleston gave me the opportunity to do what I love which is performing my music on stage. Now, as I am currently on my way to Nashville to work with Justin Eason and cut three new songs, I am beyond excited to see where the road takes me from here. 

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Far from smooth. It took some massive heartbreak and heartache, an abundance of sacrifices, and doubt that led to where I am now. A couple of relationships that I thought were the real thing, that turned out not to be. Some time periods, more than I would probably like to admit, of feeling completely lost. But the biggest takeaway throughout my experiences as a singer and songwriter is to enjoy where you are and live for the process. As a creative, we will always live with the feeling that there is more we could be doing, our workday does not end when the day is over. Chasing a dream that seems unobtainable at times is never going to a smooth road but it’s worth every single mile. 

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I connect with people through music. From sharing my life and emotions through writing to being together with people while sharing those emotions on stage. I have always had a deep love for country music because it tells a story. Although I love almost every genre of music, country music has allowed me the best of both worlds. 

I am most known for my ability to connect with others, not only through music but also through anyone I come in contact with. I genuinely want each person to feel special and know their worth and I would say that is what I am most proud of. 

What do you like and dislike about the city?
Charleston, South Carolina is a place like no other. I am a born and raised southern girl while also having a heart for the big city and all that a big city offers. Charleston gives you a feel for both of those things. From the top-notch food options and numerous tourists to the beautiful beaches and the fact that I’m close to my family. I also can’t brag enough of the live music scene in Charleston. The Windjammer will go down in history as one of my favorite venues, not only because it’s where I performed my first show, but because it’s especially unique to have a stage on the beach for locals to perform and bigger artists. As for what I like the least, with all the people moving to Charleston and visiting our wonderful city, it can get a little bit crowded! 

Contact Info:

• Email: katvelascomusic@gmail.com
• Website: https://linktr.ee/katvelasco
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/keepin_upwithkat/?hl=en

Image Credits
David Seginer Photography
Jimmy Rojas Films
James Haan Photography
Evan Laettner Photography