KristenLeigh
CONTACT

SEEKING

Band to Join, Drums.

ABOUT

A singer/songwriter of genuine authenticity, Kristen Leigh's music encompasses nearly every genre with a subtle twang, raw emotion, and an alternative edge. From folk, to indie rock, to striking ballads, to blues, jazz, and punk, there is no style that Kristen Leigh will not play straight from the heart.

Influenced primarily by traditional folk music, and artists like Tori Amos, Bob Dylan, Joni Mitchell & Fiona Apple, the self-taught North Carolina native has independently recorded and released four albums. Performing since the age of 16 at live music venues, local bars, coffee houses, theaters and street fairs all over North Carolina, Kristen’s well-developed and down-to-earth stage presence is both unique and inspiring. Leigh is most often appreciated for the level of heart and soul she pours into every performance, as well as her ability to surprise an audience by connecting with them when they least expect it, whether it be through a change in vocal intensity, an unexpected medley of songs and genres, an off-hand confession, or a petition for their participation during an upbeat sing-a-long.

True to the folk tradition, Kristen Leigh lives to give voice to songs that speak to hearts and move souls. Live music sets are usually a mix of traditional folk tunes, folk spins on classic rock and alternative favorites, lesser-known songs by both folk and rock artists that Leigh believes are worth sharing, and a few of her own originals tossed in for good measure.

Screen name:
KristenLeigh
Member since:
Dec 13 2008
Active over 1 month ago
Level of commitment:
Very Committed
Years playing music:
20
Gigs played:
Over 100
Tend to practice:
More than 3 times per week
Available to gig:
4-5 nights a week
Most available:
Nights

Influences

The Beatles, Tori Amos, The Avett Brothers, Joni Mitchell, Bob Dylan, Gillian Welch, Iron & Wine, Fiona Apple, Neil Young, Kimya Dawson, Led Zepplin, Poe, Matt Sharp, Billie Holiday, Van Morrison, Amy MacDonald, Tom Petty, The Waifs, Yan Teirson, Skip James, Beck, early Liz Phair and Jewel (before they sold out), Blind Melon, "Oltremare", Beethoven, and Andrew Lloyd Webber's The Phantom of the Opera, and about a gazillion others.

EQUIPMENT

I gig with an acoustic/electric Alvarez guitar, two microphones, mic stands, and a Crate Traveler PA system. Other instruments also on hand: Ephiphone electric guitar (and Fender amp), banjo, mandolin, one harmonica in the key of G, a completely worthless Yamaha keyboard from the 80s, and a variety of "other percussion". Oh yeah, and I also have my own recording equipment. I am not an equipment snob, and I am absolutely uninterested in performing with anyone who is. Heart makes the musician, not expensive toys with fancy model numbers and brand names.

MUSIC