We were lucky to catch up with Kate Stanford recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Kate thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.

I am a firm believer that the best things in life require taking calculated, well thought out risks. When I was seventeen and a senior in high school, I was given the opportunity to release a song for an upcoming Christian movie, called “Palau the Movie.” At the time, I had never released any of my own music, or even stepped foot into a recording studio. So many thoughts came rushing into my mind when trying to make my decision, “What will the people at school think? Will they think I am cringy? Am I even good enough to record music?” The chaos of self-doubt and fear consumed me for a few days, until I got an overwhelming gut-feeling to say “yes.” Without anymore thought, I jumped in head first and recorded my debut EP, “Bloom” and had my song “I’m a Believer” featured in the movie. If seventeen-year-old Kate had not believed in herself and said “yes,” I would not be where I am today. The biggest lesson that I learned from taking that risk 5 years ago is to always “commit to the yes.”

Kate, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I am a Christian singer/songwriter, but most importantly, I am a creative at heart. It is important for me to bring vulnerability and honesty to the forefront of my music and my personal brand. I aim to foster an environment where my listeners and followers can come as they are without judgement. The majority of my following is young women, and it is my mission to serve as a positive role model and “big sister” figure for them. In my music/content, I cover topics such as self-worth, mental health, and body image through a Christian lens. I believe that my vulnerability and authenticity brings something new to the Christian music industry.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

To me, the most rewarding part about being an artist is connection. I am a big extrovert and people person, and my goal in life is to always remind others of how loved they are. When I took on the title of “artist,” I knew this also meant taking on the title of “leader.” Through music, artists have the ability to change lives, and that should not be taken lightly. As a Christian artist, I have met hundreds of thousands of people through shows, festivals, and social media. Each interaction has given me new perspective on the world, faith, and even myself. Every comment and direct message that I receive on social media does not go unnoticed, and the support that I have received is invaluable to me. I understand that it is a privilege to have a platform, and I will continue to use it each day to glorify God and to bring people together.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

“Each no gets you closer to a yes” has become a motto of mine recently. As an artist, you have to become extremely comfortable with criticism and rejection. Whether it be people in the industry, or people on the internet, I have learned that each rejection gets me closer to my “yes.” Recently, I had someone tell me that my songs are “good not great,” and encouraged me to explore other career fields. I cannot lie and say that this did not hurt me, because it did. While I validated my emotions of discouragement, I also reminded myself that other peoples’ opinions do not equate to the truth. Do not be afraid of the “no’s,” because they could be God protecting you from spaces that are not meant for you.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.katestanfordmusic.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katestanfordmusic/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/katestanfordmusic/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC77qypb0RDT3d7iXUVJWMMw
• Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4BVwjeV33enWxFuRSwMNpk?si=Xf7ePCzwSbCj6XfPNgjUuQ

Image Credits

Jeremy Ryan Photography