We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Gracie Yates. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Gracie below.
Gracie, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Are you happier as a creative? Do you sometimes think about what it would be like to just have a regular job? Can you talk to us about how you think through these emotions?
Working as an artist is something I will never take for granted. Sharing my music and connecting with an audience, whether through the stage or online, is my dream job, my dream life. For me, the creative process and being an artist are linked and it takes both sides of that coin for me to be whole. When I am doubting myself, maybe the bookings are not coming in like I want or I can’t get a song the way I hear it in my head I will start to doubt. This time of year especially, because I am hustling, planning my next year of bookings, filling those weekends, trying to leave time to write and be creative. But then I imagine what life would be like if I worked a regular job every day; although it may be an easier path I would never be fulfilled as a creative individual. I have come to the conclusion many times that following my dreams, and reaching for my full creative potential is the only way I feel successful. I am so grateful that I get to do what I love every day!
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
Fans say vulnerable live performances set me apart, with my guitar, original music, and voice. Inspired by artists such as Elvis, Halsey, Hozier, and even Taylor Swift, I sing (and write) with a unique blend of contemporary/indie, folk, and country. As a lifelong poet and old soul, I strive to connect with the audience by being authentic. I am currently touring and sharing my music all over the country. I will be going to Connecticut next! Behind-the-scenes professionalism is key in communicating and serving my venues.
I released my first single “Boys Like You” in March of 2021 and have since been featured on CMT, DirecTV, Country Fix, and other major networks. I get regular radio airplay on contemporary and country stations worldwide!
Is there mission driving your creative journey?
I have a lot of goals that drive my career. Every year I create a dream board that helps me focus on what I wish to accomplish in the coming year. I also choose a word that summarizes my main goal for the year, for example, this year my word was growth. This year my dream board had a few other specific goals like performing in four new states, growing as a writer, and growing my social media platform. I accomplished these goals by writing a lot of new songs and performing in South Carolina, Florida, Connecticut, and I am currently looking for a show in Maryland! I have also accomplished my goal of growing my social media platforms by posting daily reels and posting often to connect with my audience. I have had multiple videos reach over 15K views and one video has reached over 94K views. My overall goal as a singer-songwriter is always to share my music with as many listeners as possible.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
The most rewarding aspect of my career as a singer-songwriter is pursuing my passions as my full-time job. Growing up I was always taught to follow my dreams and I am proud to say that I have accomplished that. I also love to hear feedback about how lyrics inspired someone or how they felt that connection, like someone else, has been there too.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.gracieyates.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/gracie_yates_
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/GracieYatesMusic
- Linkedin: NA
- Twitter: NA
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8EA36GrsMYY
- Yelp: NA
- Other: https://linktr.ee/gracieyates