Exclusive Interview with Karen Johnson Miller -Musician
NY Glam: What is your music background? Do you write your own songs?
I have been in the profession since 1985 and have the opportunity to sing internationally as well as record in New York, Nashville, and LA. Yes, I write, as well as sing, play saxophone, keys, and a bit of percussion. I am currently in two different groups. A duo called “Brent Rogers & KJ Miller” (classic pop, country, blues and originals) and the five piece Americana band “Wayne Richards and Southern Nights” (originals and a few covers)
NY Glam: How important is image?
Image is important, but my view of image is to be authentic. Every time I perform, my goal is to give a piece of me through the music and story I tell. Of course it would be awesome to look like a million bucks on stage and have amazing pics, but honestly, people are going to be drawn to you because of what you give them, not because of how you look.
NY Glam: Describe your style.
I grew up doing jazz, big bands, and torch songs and evolved to blues, rock, country. I even enjoy singing a bit of French!
NY Glam: What are you currently working on?
I am currently wrapping up an album with my duo.
NY Glam: What inspired this project and who did you work with?
This project was Kurt’s inspiration….I was just lucky enough to get asked to bring this character to life with my voice and then acting in the video. It was a joy to connect with this character. She was full of innocence, hope, sweet love, and then heartbreak. But her strong character and hope prevailed and she never gave up….and I can connect with that.
NY Glam: How do you define success?
Loving what you do and being blessed with amazing people around you!
NY Glam: Can you share with us any of your memorable performances?
Many years ago, I performed on a live national TV show called Un Dia es Un Dia.
The piece was “More Than You Know” and I was accompanied by a French pianist, who didn’t speak any English…we didn’t even get to rehearse! Apparently I was fearless back then!
NY Glam: Which instruments do you play if any?
Alto and tenor saxophone, piano and some percussion.
NY Glam: What other hobbies do you have?
I am an avid outdoors person and my husband and I try to provide the majority of our food. We grow a huge garden and I put up juices, fruits, vegetable, soups, and meats. I love to hike all terrain, waterski, run, and scuba dive.
NY Glam: What are your long-term career goals?
For both music and acting, to always grow and keep doing it! Musically, getting a bigger audience and getting some of our music in soundtracks or tv shows. A secret goal of mine, (though I suppose now it’s not a secret) is to get up and sing a song with Keith Urban or Wynonna, or open for them! For acting, I would love to get the opportunity to explore more characters in a drama or action setting. I look forward to what the future holds!
NY Glam: Tell us a little about yourself, growing up and your passions.
I grew up in Washington state. My pre-adult activities were chores, training and showing horses, and gardening, music, and sports. After college I began my modeling, acting, and music careers and have never looked back.
NY Glam: What made you take this role?
I loved the idea of this role! The time period is so romantic and who can resist a tender love story with amazing costumes! Plus I was thrilled to be able to work with such an amazing and talented crew!!
NY Glam: What journey does your character go on in the course of the monologues?
This is one of those amazing roles that you have no actual dialog, but rather song and everything is done through your eyes and body language. Her journey is one of young, strong love and the bond that was created before they were tragically separated…but she never gives up!
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