Sarahbeth Taite – First Rodeo

By starrymag | July 19, 2024

By: Jamie Steinberg

 

 

Q) How would you describe your sound?

 

A) I would say it’s incorporating a lot of classic, country sounds/instrumentation in a way that’s my own. Upfront storytelling along with simple, pure tracks.

 

Q) Who are some of your musical influences?

 

A) I have been so inspired by Lee Ann Womack, Trisha Yearwood, Faith Hill, Martina McBride and Alison Krauss – both sonically and lyrically. I love the way they celebrated womanhood in their songs.

 

Q) “First Rodeo” is a unique take on a saying we have all used at some point. Talk about the story behind it.

 

A) I wrote “First Rodeo” with my friends Scott Stepakoff and Grant Vogel. I remember that day we went in to write, Grant came in with this idea. It was a title we all felt like we’d already heard a million times – but the angle was brand new. We all were so excited to dive in and try to tell this new story from an old phrase.

 

Q) What do you think it is about the song that fans connect to?

 

A) I hope fans will connect with the nostalgia that this song brings and the traditional country sound it’s taken on in production. To me, this song is such a universal experience and I hope it resonates with people the way it did with me.

 

Q) How does the video for the track play into the message behind it?

 

A) The “First Rodeo” video is simple, but perfectly fitting. It was filmed in the green grass on a hot July afternoon in Tennessee, summer bugs and all. I think it represents the vision of this song beautifully.

 

Q) What is your song writing process? Do you need music before you can create lyrics?

 

A) I always like to start a song with a strong hook/title to write towards. The lyrics are the most important piece to me. A melody usually comes along with it, but that part is much more subject to change, as long as the lyrics are teeing up the hook well.

 

Q) How much of a hand do you have in the production of your music?

 

A) Watching the life of a song from the writing room to the “big time” studio is so magical to me. I love to be really present for the production decisions, tracking, etc., but I have had the honor of working with Nathan Chapman and Parker Welling as producers on this upcoming project; two unbelievable talents. I trusted them wholeheartedly. We had a really cohesive vision going in, so I just got to be a witness to their magic in the studio.

 

Q) You have an EP set to come out on August 23. Can you tease some themes you will explore on it?

 

A) “The Way We Started” is about becoming a woman, navigating heartbreak, settling down and celebrating motherhood.

 

Q) Where are some of your favorite places to perform and what makes those locations so significant to you?

 

A) Anywhere there are country music fans wanting to listen! Of course, I always love getting to perform near my hometown in Fort Collins, Colorado. It always feels extra special there.

 

Q) Who would you most like to collaborate with on a song in the future?

 

A) I would die for a Chris Stapleton or Cody Johnson duet!

 

Q) What artist/musician are you currently listening to and why do you dig them?

 

A) It’s summertime, which means I’m currently in my Kenny Chesney, Tim McGraw, Alan Jackson and Deana Carter season. For obvious reasons!

 

Q) You are a part of social media. Why is that such an important way for you to connect with your fans?

 

A) Like so many artists, social media has really changed the game for me. It’s the quickest and most effective way for me to reach listeners every day from all around the world. It’s a part of my job that I can do while being home with my daughter which is also an added blessing.

 

Q) What would you like to say to everyone who is a fan and supporter of you and your work?

 

A) Thank you!!! If even one line from one of my songs has resonated with someone or made them feeling something — then I’m living my dream.

 

 

Watch The Video For “First Rodeo”