From Stamford, CT to the world! Natalie Carr saddles up in a thrilling new release titled “Cowboy,” a powerful anthem about independence, self-discovery, and breaking free from societal expectations. The lyrics depict a woman who refuses to conform to traditional roles and expectations placed upon her by a partner. Instead, she embraces her own identity and autonomy, likening herself to a cowboy – a symbol of freedom, strength, and resilience.
Natalie Carr began playing piano and guitar at a young age, later writing her own songs as well. She draws inspiration from crossover artists like Miley Cyrus, SZA, and Halsey. Additionally, she has contributed music for the CW Network and Netflix, and her songs have been played on both national and international radio.
In today’s interview, Natalie Carr discusses her musical style and influences, the creative process behind her newest track, and its significance. She also shares her thoughts on empowerment and self-expression in the music industry, her growth as an artist, the challenges of being an independent artist, and her upcoming performance at the Lovin’ Life Music Fest. Check it out!
What do you feel characterizes you as a musician?
As a Pop/R&B artist, I sit between a ton of different styles and draw inspiration from everything. I’ve also been experimenting with sounds in the vein of funk-pop, folk-pop, and electronic music, so I guess I’m all over the map. Above all, I’m an honest and vulnerable lyricist who isn’t afraid to say the things I think and feel, and I find solace in saying uncomfortable things.
Can you describe the creative process behind “Cowboy” and how the song came to be?
Sure! I actually thought of the idea for “Cowboy” while noodling on the guitar in my kitchen. The guitar in the song is totally different from what I had originally written, which was an acoustic, folk-inspired song. I knew the direction it needed to go, and co-producers (JMac & Philip Wheeler) brought it to life beautifully with their first idea. The most important idea for me to get across was, “I’m the cowboy, not you.” In movies and books, cowboys are often portrayed as wild, reckless, uninhibited, and effortlessly cool guys who break hearts and chase freedom. I’ve always felt like I possessed elements of that archetype, but because I’m a woman, I’d never be perceived as such. In essence, this song was me claiming that territory and leaning into that part of myself.
In what ways did writing “Cowboy” serve as a form of catharsis for you?
Because “Cowboy” is a women empowerment song, it felt very right for me to make it at this stage in my life. In the last year or so, I’ve done a lot of sobering introspection on why and how my relationships with men have looked like they did up until this point. I think the younger me really wanted to appease the male gaze because it felt safer, but as I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized that who I am is simply non-compliant. I’m loud, boisterous, and opinionated, and those qualities seemed to clash with the covert expectation of submission that certain men had for me. I felt like I was suffocating at times while trying to be this person I’m not. Leaning into the “cowboy” recluse/bandit persona really helped me feel like I was honoring myself and my truth for once. It felt like giving a high five to the wild little girl in me, who could never sit still and “behave,” while also acknowledging the strong woman I’ve become.
The song touches on the idea of defying traditional roles and expectations. How do you see “Cowboy” contributing to the broader conversation about empowerment and self-expression, especially in the music industry?
Upon hearing “Cowboy” and seeing this video, I want people who identify with the song and its message to feel that energy, like they can take on the world and not change who they fundamentally are to please anyone. There is so much societal pressure to be “traditional” in our relationships, our careers, our families, etc. It can be soul-crushing, especially when those closest to you are the ones imposing those ideas and you don’t realize it until it’s too late. If this song can be a wake-up call to even one person, then I’ve done my job. It’s okay to go rogue and say “F*** what you want me to be, I’m not that.”
Could you discuss your growth as an artist from your debut single, “Bad Side,” in 2019 to your most recent release? How do you feel about the evolution of your music and career during this time?
So much has changed! When I look back, it’s honestly hard not to cringe sometimes, but I think that’s true for almost every artist. When you start out, you’re figuring out so many things that have nothing to do with music while also making music. It can feel like a whirlwind. As for what’s ahead, I’m releasing my debut project this year, and piecing it together has been really exciting. I’m pulling from a few different genres, and no two songs will sound alike. It’ll be fun to showcase my range as an artist and writer, and I truly feel the best is yet to come! I’m creatively fulfilled (if not overwhelmed) with the sheer amount of songs and videos I’m either executing or planning. There’s a lot in the tank at the moment!
As an independent artist, what has been the most difficult challenge you’ve faced so far?
The hardest part about being an independent artist in the current climate is the forever question of, “What’s the best way to do this?” There are endless avenues to be seen and heard, which is a good problem to have but can also feel overwhelming. It can often feel like there just aren’t enough minutes in the day to tend to every aspect as an independent (making music, managing projects, doing shows/touring, branding, editing, merch, producing videos, marketing, promoting, generating income, etc.). The laundry list of tasks is never-ending and around the clock, so artists have a shared sense of fatigue. But when you love what you do, you get it done.
How are you preparing for your performance on May 4th at the upcoming Lovin’ Life Music Fest, a 3-day festival taking place in Charlotte, NC? And what can fans expect from your set?
I’m really excited to play at the festival! I’ve been rehearsing a bunch, and I’m also in the midst of a mini-tour as we speak. I’ll be playing one or two new songs from the project that people haven’t heard yet, and of course, all the songs people know.
How was your experience performing in Toronto? Can you share any upcoming tour plans with us at this time?
I’d never been to Canada, and Toronto is a super cool city. I had fans come and bring gifts that I’d never had the chance to meet or perform in person. It was a wild and super heartwarming experience. I had an amazing fan/friend who read me a poem, and another bought me a Canadian cowboy hat. It was magical to feel that level of love as a small artist in a new city! I performed with two other badass female artists (Katrina Anastasia and Mia Bella), who are talented beyond belief. I can’t wait to get back! As for right now, I’m finishing a few dates on my mini tour (Atlanta, Charlotte, and Nashville), and then I’ll reassess and see what the summer and fall have in store. After my EP is out, I’d love to do a Northeastern leg as well as one abroad (a girl can dream).
What’s on the horizon right now for you? What can we expect from Natalie Carr in the near future?
My debut EP is coming out this summer (yay, finally) and I have a few videos to accompany it that I’m very passionate about bringing to life. The EP will explore new territories that I haven’t yet touched (women empowerment, familial trauma, and addiction). I’m focused on creating and releasing music like my life depends on it, so stay tuned!
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