Photo Credit: Jason Bennett
Our latest interview is with Karen Lee Batten! She just released a music video for her latest single “Drinkin’ Song” which is included below!
- Artist Name: Karen Lee Batten
- Hometown: Abbotsford, British Columbia, Canada
What project(s) are you currently working on?
I’m excited to have recently released my new single, “Drinkin’ Song.” It’s now on country radio here in Canada with brand new official music video that’s out now!
I’m also working on an EP release in the fall!
What inspired you to pursue a career in music and when did you know?
I think the people around you help, you know. Your loved ones, your friends, the people who tell you the honest truth help the most!
I started singing in the church at a young age, and then on to choirs and bands all the way through school and college. I knew I wanted to sing when people started to tell me I should. So when “Canadian Idol” started, I took a leap and tried out. Even though I knew before this that I wanted music to be a part of my everyday life, I think it was when I got to the Top 10 of “Canadian Idol” that I thought this dream might actually be attainable.
If you weren’t pursuing a career in music, what would you be doing for a living?
I love making organics, so at the end of 2019 when the world changed for a little while, I started a small business called “Earthya.” I hand-make over 100 different organic all-natural products with premium essential oils. Products such as bar soap, lip balms, lip gloss, body/hand cream, foaming had soaps, bath scrubs and salts… etc. I love it, so I’m sure this is what I would be doing. Of course, I might also be a real estate agent in Mexico – haha!
What is your favorite downtime activity?
Is hanging out with friends drinking wine a downtime activity? If so.. that’s it! If I can add in sun and a beach, then that seems pretty perfect!
Who is your biggest celebrity crush?
George Clooney – young and salt ‘n’ pepper!
Who is your favorite sports team(s)?
Well, I have always loved the Vancouver Canucks and now I get asked to sing the anthems for them, so that’s a win-win! For football, the 49ers… don’t judge me!
What is the last movie that you watched?
Hmmm.. I usually watch Netflix. I’m in the middle of “Breaking Bad” and “Heartland”.
A movie would have to be a super awesome cheesy spring special Hallmark movie with the word “Love” most likely in the title. Those are the bomb!
What is the last album you listened to?
“Skeletons” – Brothers Osborne
If you could only listen to one album for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Can it be a mix tape? Haha… oh man, this is way too hard. If I could only pick one, I would have to say “Songbird” – Eva Cassidy
What is the greatest country song of all time?
This is literally impossible for me to say… it gives me anxiety.
- “Crazy” – Patsy
- “Ring of Fire” or “Folsom” – Johnny
- “Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain” – Willie
- “I Will Always Love You” – Dolly
- “The Gambler” – Kenny
- “The Tennessee Waltz” – Patti
- “The Devil Went Down To Georgia” – T.C.D Band
- And so on…. I just can’t.
- Oh … and “Drinkin’ Song” by me – hehe!
What has been your favorite city/town that you’ve visited out on the road?
I fell in love with the Williams Lake Stampede in British Columbia the first year I went there. I have been back 6 times over 5 years now. It’s a small town and it’s a great town, full of the most amazing people that are totally a part of my music family now. Such a great Stampede, such a fun party, and I would go back there year after year as long as they want me.
What is your favorite meal?
I LOVE Sushi!!
I also really love a great fish burger… basically I love seafood.
Who is your dream duet partner?
Willie Nelson
Who would you like to go on tour with?
Brothers Osborne
What is your ultimate career goal(s)?
-To Write or Co-Write a #1 single
-To be nominated and ultimately win a CCMA Award
-And in this moment … to get back on stage, play some great live music and party with ya’ll!!!
