With a soft voice and the classic Southern demeanor often those from the South are coveted for, country artist Kalisa Ewing is sincere without trying to hard.
Of all the aspects of performing, Ewing said her favorite is connecting with the audience because of how she can make connections with the audience, and possibly have an influence in people’s lives.
“If I can just connect with one person in the audience, that’s all I do it (perform) for,” Ewing said. “I don’t have to win over 200 of the people. It (music) helps them feel a little more normal, and can relate with the artist. (Music) is a very universal language.”
Ewing said she plans to make an impression on Knoxville fans when she performs at the Preservation Pub and Blue Plate Special on Dec. 10.
Ewing said one of her most memorable impressions happened during one performance when she connected with a fan whose father recently passed away. The two shared some tears, but Ewing said it was an experience that reminded her the power her music has over fans.
Senior in child and family studies Courtney Baine said she enjoys country music, and while Ewing isn’t on her iPod yet, Baine said can relate to any artist with personal appeal.
“(Country music) is catchy and relatable,” Baine said.
Growing up just outside of Nashville, Ewing said she began singing at 10 years old, traveling at state fairs and performing different shows there.
“When I was really young, I always loved listening to the radio and would fall asleep listening to it,” Ewing said. “I always wanted to be inside the boom box. it was kind of like my sanctuary it saved me.”
Despite the share happiness between her and fans, Ewing said there are some hardships to face.
But theses issues are interval, Ewing said.
“You have to continue to believe in yourself, keeping yourself motivated and keeping yourself going,” she said. “And it’s hard though because the music business is not the easiest industry.”
Ewing will play at Blue Plate Special at 12 p.m. and at Preservation Pub at 10 p.m. on Monday Dec. 10.
