Check out our interview with psychedelic pop / R&B singer, songwriter and producer Cate Hamilton who just released her new music video for her new song “Dimension”
Her style can best be described as cinematic pop due to the dramatic nature of her expressive tracks which incorporate sounds reminiscent of a film score. Hamilton’s shiny and soulful sound invites listeners to explore the depths of time, space, and energy dauntlessly. Her dreamy vocal hues reverberate a tangible nostalgia for past lives and future ones. Through her messages about personal struggle and revelation, Hamilton possesses an undeniable duality to be both powerful yet soft.
Follow Cate @cate_hamiltonn
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Hi Cate, please tell us a little about you?
I’m a psychedelic pop / R&B artist based in Brooklyn!
How did you get started in the business?
I grew up singing and writing songs, but I entered the business when I released my first EP “Angel Baby” back in 2017!
How has this changed your life?
It has changed the way I approach making music just because I found out that it’s something I can actually make money doing. I also learned that I feel really rewarded by being my own “boss” in a sense. Although the business side of being an independent artist can be tedious, I sometimes really enjoy that aspect of the industry.
Describe your sound in 3 words?
cinematic, sensual, and nostalgic
Who influenced you and why did you choose to make music?
Amy Winehouse, The Beatles, Beach Boys, Billie Holiday, Tame Impala are few, but music is everything to me. I’ve always loved singing and writing songs because I feel really passionate and in the moment when I’m making music so it just makes sense to surround myself with it.
Do you play any instrument?
I play guitar and keys! I grew up playing violin.
Do you ever get nervous?
All the time. As a person with anxiety, a lot of things make me nervous. Things like performing, putting my music out there, etc., but I’ve gotten really good at channeling those nerves into excitement.
Tell us about your new single “Dimension?”
“Dimension” is a synth pop song with a retro 80’s feel.
What’s the story behind the song?
It’s about that feeling you get when you meet a stranger, but you get a strange feeling of deja vu like you’ve definitely met them before. That feeling is explored throughout the song and was inspired by the concept of past lives, alternate realities, and different dimensions.
What is the most rewarding part of your work?
Probably feeling proud of something I’ve made. I usually discard a good chunk of the songs I make, but sometimes I surprise myself with what I create.
What book should every entrepreneur read?
Not quite sure! I haven’t read any great books about entrepreneurship.
What would say are the greatest lessons you learned so far?
One of the greatest lessons I’ve learned is to trust your creative vision. I used to doubt myself or try to recreate what I thought people wanted to hear instead of following my own instincts. I’ve learned it’s much better to create something authentic than something that is commercially appealing.
What advice would you give to your younger self and why?
Do not let people tell you who you are or who you’re going to be. I had a producer intimidate me into thinking his idea of who I was as an artist was more true than my own version because he was older and he was more experienced in the music industry. I compromised my own opinion too many times which I regret.
How would your best friend describe you?
Goofy, laidback, insane
What’s next for Cate Hamilton in 2022?
I’m moving to LA later in June, but the rest of this year will be dedicated to writing new songs and sharpening my producer chops. Hoping to release a new song or two later this year!
What is your favorite healthy food?
Lately, it’s sushi and anything with sriracha or avocado on it.
And your favorite cheat food?
I don’t really believe in cheat food, but I guess it would be tacos. I’m a hoe for Mexican food.
How would you explain your fashion style?
Psychedelic barbie doll. My fashion style is very feminine and colorful. I love anything ridiculous and flashy! Fur trim, sequins, floral patterns, etc.
What is your own definition of happiness?
Being around people you enjoy, making time for your passions / things that feel in alignment with your purpose, and experiencing as much pleasure as you possibly can.
What would be the dream holiday, and who would you go with?
Probably going to Thailand with someone I’m close with!
Where do you see yourself and your career in 5 years from now?
I see myself touring internationally and releasing more music! I want to have a cottage off of the beach with a recording studio in it.
Favorite song? Why?
This week is “The Boat I Row” by Tame Impala. Something about it makes me so emotional and nostalgic.
What do you think of Social Media?
I think social media is fun, but also an awful thing. It’s beneficial for artists because we’re now able to put our music out there in a way that wasn’t available before, but it’s also exhausting to constantly feel the pressure to be on it.
Where we can follow you?
Instagram / TikTok / Youtube / Spotify
Photo Credit: Savanna Reudy
