10 Questions with ... Katelynne Cox

BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:

LABEL:

• Red Hammer Records

DISCOGRAPHY:

• One Girl (2011)

1) Tell us a little about your musical journey and how you came to be with Red Hammer Records.

When I was 12-years-old, I was the only person from the Pacific Northwest accepted to the first "American Idol" camp. A local radio station, KUPL, found out and asked me to record the national anthem for their morning show. Darren Bowls, owner of Red Hammer Records, happened to be in the studio that day and heard me sing. He came in and talked with my mom and one thing led to another and here I am today!

2) What's the story behind the new single "Me"?

The song "Me" on my new album is about realizing that you have to give your whole life to God, not just parts, and follow his plan because ultimately he chooses your destiny. It's important to understand that you can't stop the inevitable and that he is going to take care of you, you just have to have faith.

3) What's the message or theme behind your album "One Girl"?

There isn't necessarily just one theme or message. I chose songs that I feel I can relate to and things I've experienced and that other people have gone through too. Every song is a little piece of Katelynne. I want my audience to get a feel for who I am through my music and be able to relate to me and my life.

4) How does your story (as a target of bullying) inform your message to young people today?

I want people who have faced the same hardships I have to know that they aren't the only ones and that I know what they're going through. I want my listeners to be inspired to do what they love and be who they are. I think the song "One Girl" has a great message about standing out in the crowd, having your thoughts heard, and being beyond the status quo.

5) Who inspires you personally and/or spiritually?

I could go on and on about the people who inspire me. God has put so many great leaders in my life. Spiritually, my youth pastor Jono inspires me every time I see him. He is so loving and caring, and he makes having a relationship with God fun, not work, which I believe it is the way it should be. Personally, my manager's wife Bonnie inspires me. She has the most uplifting spirit I have ever seen and I appreciate all the things she has taught me in such little time. Bonnie truly is an inspirational and accepting person, and I hope I can reflect the same love and hopefulness with everyone I meet the way she does.

6) Do you have a favorite song that you perform?

My favorite song to perform is "Sticking with You." I have so much fun doing this live on stage because of the energy; I love to get all the kids in front of the stage. When the chorus comes around I have everyone, including the band, jump with me and be involved with the song. It's the biggest crowd pleaser, and I love seeing the smiles on the audiences' faces when my dancers get in the crowd, and we are all jumping and singing.

7) Where is your favorite place to play?

I haven't played in numerous places yet; however, every year the Clark County Fair in Washington is a blast.

8) Upcoming spring tour plans? Where will we find you on the road?

I will be doing spot dates this spring and summer. You can check out my web site for an updated tour schedule (www.katelynnecox.com).

9) Is there one song that you wish you had written?

I wish I would have written the song "Pocket Full of Rainbows" by Elvis Presley. My dad and I would sing that in the car when I was little, and I still know every word.

10) Do you have much time to check out other artists' music? What are you listening to right now?

I listen to music nonstop! Right now I am listening to a lot of Owl City, tobyMac and Guns N' Roses.