Kat Parsons
Band Story
Kat Parsons, the dynamic one-woman indie music sensation, has seen her blossoming career propel into full-scale overdrive since the release of her acclaimed album, "No Will Power," on March 29. Distributed nationally by Cleopatra/Navarre, this recording was uniquely funded entirely by her dedicated fan base, who contributed over $18,000 through a creative pre-order and investment system.
In early spring 2005, Parsons celebrated the album's release with sold-out parties in Washington, D.C., New York City, Chicago, and Los Angeles—cities where her enthusiastic fan community, numbering over 5,000 subscribers to her email list, eagerly awaited her performances. Her popularity surged, prompting Parsons to post a gentle apology on her website to those who couldn’t secure tickets due to high demand.
The music industry has quickly taken note of Parsons' success. In April 2005, she graced the cover of the influential industry magazine, Music Connection, highlighting her as a prime example of DIY musical success alongside stars like Shania Twain and Joss Stone. Her story and music have also been featured in prominent publications like Billboard, Campus Circle, and The Boston Globe.
Parsons has captivated television audiences nationwide, with memorable performances on major stations like WGN Morning News in Chicago, San Diego Morning News on KUSI, and Good Morning Arizona. Radio appearances include the celebrated "Local Licks" program on Los Angeles’ iconic rock station, 95.5 KLOS.
"No Will Power" earned the prestigious honor of being a Front Page Editor’s Pick by the renowned independent music platform CD Baby. Derek Sivers, CD Baby's president, praised it enthusiastically, describing it as "one of the best I've ever heard."
The album's creation is a testament to Parsons’ creativity and business acumen. Fans were invited to invest at various levels, with rewards ranging from personalized signed albums to special concert experiences, acknowledgments in the album credits, and even lunch with Parsons herself.
"No Will Power," driven by personal experiences including a poignant breakup, showcases Parsons' deep artistic sincerity and universal emotional appeal. It explores the complexities of love and relationships in songs such as the heartfelt title track, "We Deserve More," the soul-stirring rendition of "Someone to Watch Over Me," and the epic "To Return to You," reminiscent of U2.
The album's production, expertly handled by Paul Maylone and enhanced by veteran producer Geza X, is complemented by an impressive lineup of session musicians, including actor Dermot Mulroney on cello, guitarist Michael Chaves (John Mayer, Sarah McLachlan), upright bassist Joe Ayoub (Liz Phair), and trumpeter Chris Opperman (Steve Vai).
Born in Vienna, Austria, Kat Parsons comes from a deeply musical family—her parents being the esteemed opera singer Darrell and popular recording artist Julie, with whom she co-wrote "I Know It's Time." Raised in Maryland, Parsons studied piano and theatre at Northwestern University. Her professional journey has seen her sharing stages with notable artists such as The Fixx, Dave Mason, Spin Doctors, Jonatha Brooke, and Charlotte Martin.
Parsons hopes listeners will find reflections of their own lives in her music, stating, "Being able to recognize yourself in the world is a huge thing, and makes you feel not so alone."
With a passion ignited early in childhood—entertaining neighbors with homemade performances and creatively charging admission—Kat Parsons continues to blend profound artistry with entrepreneurial savvy, leaving an indelible mark on the indie music landscape.
In early spring 2005, Parsons celebrated the album's release with sold-out parties in Washington, D.C., New York City, Chicago, and Los Angeles—cities where her enthusiastic fan community, numbering over 5,000 subscribers to her email list, eagerly awaited her performances. Her popularity surged, prompting Parsons to post a gentle apology on her website to those who couldn’t secure tickets due to high demand.
The music industry has quickly taken note of Parsons' success. In April 2005, she graced the cover of the influential industry magazine, Music Connection, highlighting her as a prime example of DIY musical success alongside stars like Shania Twain and Joss Stone. Her story and music have also been featured in prominent publications like Billboard, Campus Circle, and The Boston Globe.
Parsons has captivated television audiences nationwide, with memorable performances on major stations like WGN Morning News in Chicago, San Diego Morning News on KUSI, and Good Morning Arizona. Radio appearances include the celebrated "Local Licks" program on Los Angeles’ iconic rock station, 95.5 KLOS.
"No Will Power" earned the prestigious honor of being a Front Page Editor’s Pick by the renowned independent music platform CD Baby. Derek Sivers, CD Baby's president, praised it enthusiastically, describing it as "one of the best I've ever heard."
The album's creation is a testament to Parsons’ creativity and business acumen. Fans were invited to invest at various levels, with rewards ranging from personalized signed albums to special concert experiences, acknowledgments in the album credits, and even lunch with Parsons herself.
"No Will Power," driven by personal experiences including a poignant breakup, showcases Parsons' deep artistic sincerity and universal emotional appeal. It explores the complexities of love and relationships in songs such as the heartfelt title track, "We Deserve More," the soul-stirring rendition of "Someone to Watch Over Me," and the epic "To Return to You," reminiscent of U2.
The album's production, expertly handled by Paul Maylone and enhanced by veteran producer Geza X, is complemented by an impressive lineup of session musicians, including actor Dermot Mulroney on cello, guitarist Michael Chaves (John Mayer, Sarah McLachlan), upright bassist Joe Ayoub (Liz Phair), and trumpeter Chris Opperman (Steve Vai).
Born in Vienna, Austria, Kat Parsons comes from a deeply musical family—her parents being the esteemed opera singer Darrell and popular recording artist Julie, with whom she co-wrote "I Know It's Time." Raised in Maryland, Parsons studied piano and theatre at Northwestern University. Her professional journey has seen her sharing stages with notable artists such as The Fixx, Dave Mason, Spin Doctors, Jonatha Brooke, and Charlotte Martin.
Parsons hopes listeners will find reflections of their own lives in her music, stating, "Being able to recognize yourself in the world is a huge thing, and makes you feel not so alone."
With a passion ignited early in childhood—entertaining neighbors with homemade performances and creatively charging admission—Kat Parsons continues to blend profound artistry with entrepreneurial savvy, leaving an indelible mark on the indie music landscape.
Band Members
Kat Parsons, Ron Barnes, Tom Barrett, Brian Cohen, Ralph Covert, Rob Newhouse
Kat Parsons, Ron Barnes, Tom Barrett, Brian Cohen, Ralph Covert, Rob Newhouse
Location: AMERICA NORTH: USA: California (CA)
Genre: Pop