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New York based, singer/songwriter Hailey Knox, is making moves with the recent release of her debut EP ‘A Little Akward’. Her lead soulful-pop single “Awkward,” is pure sonic goodness with lyrics that make a powerful statement about parenting and social media. Hailey is definitely on the rise and is one to look out for, she will be hitting the road this fall with Charlie Puth on his “We Don’t Talk Anymore” US tour!
GroundSounds recently caught up with Hailey to talk about her latest music and more, check out the exclusive interview below.
For those just discovering your and your music, can you tell us a little bit about your background and how you got started with music?
I’ve been singing for as long as I can remember and my dad taught me the guitar at 7 years old. The very first song I learned to play was “Blackbird” by The Beatles which I performed at my 4th grade talent show. Artists that have influenced me include Ingrid Michaelson, Corinne Bailey Rae and Dave Matthews. I began playing locally in my town at little coffee shops and open mics. I also posted covers of my favorite songs on Facebook and YouTube. Two music producers saw my version of “Like A Star” and became interested; however, it wasn’t until I received my loop pedal for Christmas that we really began working together. I used my loop pedal to create my own version of Aloe Blacc’s song “I Need a Dollar.” Producers Mike Mangini and Peter Zizzo reached out for the second time and we’ve been working together ever since.
What do you enjoy most about NYC?
I love being able to walk outside at any time and explore the city. There are are so many interesting people with their own unique style. My sister and I love finding cool new coffee shops, clothing stores and restaurants.
Can you tell us about working on your debut EP ‘A Little Awkward’ and bringing it to fruition?
“A Little Awkward” was written over the course of two years. My school allowed me to take Fridays off so that I could take the train to the city and work on my music. My team, “The Dreaded Us” (consisting of Mike Mangini, Peter Zizzo and Imani Coppola) would write and record together. Once we had rough demos of about 10-15 songs, we narrowed down which ones would make it onto the EP and began working on the production.
What made you decide on the title A Little Awkward?
It took me a while to settle on a title for the EP. I ended up calling it “A Little Awkward” because going through my teenage years, I have been in quite a few awkward situations – whether it be with my friends, my past boyfriends, my parents, or virtually countless situations. My teenage years have definitely been and continue to be “A Little Awkward.”
Can you tell us about the creative and writing process involved with your single “Awkward?”
“Awkward” was written as a response to the people who bothered and nagged me as a teen. At times, I felt like my parents were constantly watching over me and not giving me enough freedom. I love my Mom and Dad but I think any teen can relate to having an overprotective parent at one point or another. I explained to them that the overall message of the song is “trust me, I got this” as opposed to “leave me alone, Mom and Dad!”
What was it like the day you filmed the music video for “Awkward?”
Filming the “Awkward” video was such a cool experience. I had an amazing makeup artist and director. We also managed to have one of my favorite viners, Nicholas Megalis, to be in the video. I was star struck when I first met Nicholas and was so psyched that he agreed to be apart of the video! I actually had to hold back my laughter at times because I kept making mistakes while swiping!
Can you tell us about the inspiration behind your single “Geeks?”
“Geeks” was written about how I felt during high school. I was very quiet and a bit anti-social. I preferred staying in the music building and playing my guitar instead of socializing with friends. I realized that feeling like a nerd and being a weirdo is okay – weirdos are the coolest.
What musicians/bands are you currently listening to?
I’m really loving Jon Bellion and Allen Stone! They’re music is so interesting. Jon Bellion has such an incredible approach to songwriting and the production of his music. I also love the soulfulness in Allen Stone’s voice and how groovy his music is.
You will be joining Charlie Puth on tour soon, what are looking forward most in regards to hitting the road?
I’m really looking forward to meeting Charlie and traveling to all the different states! This will be my very first tour so I am excited to experience the “tour life” and hopefully get to meet some fans!
After the tour, what’s next? What can fans look forward to?
After this tour, I will be releasing an album. We don’t have a date just yet, but we’re working on a lot of cool songs that I can’t wait to release!
