Today we’d like to introduce you to Karlie Bartholomew.
Hi Karlie, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I was born and raised in Brooklyn Park, Maryland, where I started writing my own songs and performing at a young age. Growing up, I participated in every school talent show, singing and tap dancing to songs like Rod Stewart’s cover of “They Can’t Take That Away From Me” and “Tomorrow” from Annie.
In high school, I taught myself to play guitar on my father’s old six-string and started to take my songwriting seriously. My first performances outside of school talent shows were at a local open mic night at Frederick Coffee Co. while attending Hood College. I originally planned to study English, but that year I made the decision to pursue my passion for music. I transferred to Berklee College of Music in Boston where I focused on Performance and Contemporary Writing/Production. Before moving to Boston, I performed at notable Maryland venues like Rams Head Live!, Baltimore Soundstage, The 9:30 Club, DC9, and The Ottobar.
While attending Berklee, I was chosen as a featured soloist to honor Lucinda Williams at the school’s Commencement Concert in 2017. I had the opportunity to sing for an arena filled with seven thousand people, including Lucinda herself, Lionel Richie, Todd Rundgren, and Neil Portnow.
Now living in Nashville, Tennessee, I am currently working on my latest project – my debut EP titled “A Way to Start.” My debut single “Brooklyn Park” was released on October 29, 2021, and talks about leaving my hometown for the first time. This was followed by the release of my single “Back Bay” on November 12, 2021.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
While it has been a relatively smooth road, it has taken some time to adjust and find my footing here in Nashville. The biggest challenge has been navigating my work-life balance between my career in music and my day job. As an independent artist, I handle the business side of my career as well as the creative aspects like songwriting and performing which can be a full-time job in itself.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am an Americana singer/songwriter and performer and I’m most proud of my upcoming EP which the full project will be available on December 10, 2021. This record features some of my favorite songs I’ve ever written with an incredible line-up of musicians that I am so thankful to have been able to work with.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
Being my authentic self has worked well for me in terms of networking and finding a mentor. Doing so has always helped me connect to like-minded and supportive people.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.karliemusic.com
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/karliemusic
- Twitter: www.twitter.com/karliemusic
- Youtube: www.youtube.com/karliebartholomew
- Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4TQtmnb8nymbljAmFxIph3?si=YROlW5svRYmkcwKmr1Y3rg
Image Credits
Kirsten Balani Photography
