August Featured Artist of the Month: Haleigh Martin

1. When and why did you decide you wanted to be a singer?

I began singing at a very young age- I had my own karaoke machine at 3 and would perform for my parents. It’s always been in me, and I can’t quite pinpoint when I decided I wanted to sing and make music. I feel like it’s been my calling all my life. 

2. When was the first time you performed live in front of an audience?

I grew up singing in church. My first performance was at 12 as part of our worship band. I’m so grateful for this, because worship has always been special to me, and having a small church congregation to cheer me on as I developed really helped shape who I am as a person and artist.

3. What is your favorite song to perform and why?

My favorite song to perform, wow! That’s a hard question. I think right now, my favorite song to perform is my own song “This One’s On Me”. I’m very proud of this song and my co-writers. It’s a very emotive song and, because I have a special connection to it, I always feel freedom to continue molding and shaping it, which is a blessing and a feeling I have about all my original music. It’s becoming one of my most requested songs, too! 

4, How does being an indie artist help your artistic freedom to choose what music you sing?

Sometimes, people don’t realize how much creativity and art goes into being a musical artist. You have to be in tune with your artistic abilities in not only music and all the different parts of a song, but visual art, communication, media, stage performance, aesthetic, branding, and so much more. I think I love it all- I love having creative control over all of the different parts of my brand as an Indie artist. It makes me feel like I’m showing up as my truly authentic self for my friends and fans. It also gives me a chance to sharpen my skills and gives me a creative outlet outside of music. 

5. Who is your favorite artist, any genre or era?

Oh wow! Another hard one. I have to say Kelly Clarkson. She’s not only a powerhouse vocalist, but she’s an example of an artist who has never let genre or aesthetic define her. She’s just raw talent and radiates joy and life, not only when she performs, but as a person. She’s been my favorite all my life and has definitely influenced me as a vocalist.