Interview: Ren Patrick - Get to Know the Houston Indie-Pop Artist
Posted on September 24 2020
Interview: Singer/Songwriter Ren Patrick
Get to Know the Houston Indie-Pop Artist
Cypress-native Ren Patrick is a long-time family friend of mine who is an amazing musician. She got her start by playing local venues in Houston. At 17 she moved to Los Angeles and co-created the dance-pop band Stamps. She is now breaking out as a solo artist and recently gained recognition from her appearance on American Idol. It's been so exciting to see her career grow and I'm thrilled we got to interview her. Stick with us as Ren discusses her experience on Idol, coping with COVID, and new music.
What influenced you to be a singer-songwriter?
I started singing when I was a toddler. It’s always given me a feeling that I can only compare to “Magic”. Singing makes me feel home, and safe-almost therapeutic in a way. I’m not sure if I was influenced by my father being a musician, or the fact that it just felt destined to be, but I’ve always known that I wanted a career in music and songwriting. My goal is to be able to connect emotionally with other people through my voice and writing.
How would you describe your style of music?
I’d call my writing style jazzy indie pop. :)
What is your creative process like? How do you start writing a song?
It’s always different. Sometimes it starts as a journal page full of lyrics that I’ll put to a melody and guitar/piano. Sometimes it starts as a melody, and other times it’ll be me messing around making a track first. My favorite songs are the ones that are written lyrically first though.
What was it like to be on American Idol?
Honestly, it was like a dream. I had a hard few years before that where my confidence was crushed, and American Idol made me believe that my voice was worthy of listening to again.
In your audition you sang, “Dancing on My Own” by Robyn. What inspired you to choose that song?
I LOVE Robyn, and her almost techno pop style, but her lyrics are so full of substance and heart. I thought it would be cool to take her song and make it more like a singer-songwriter’s love story where the words could really shine.
If you could perform with any musician who would it be?
Paul McCartney!!!!! I’m a HUGE Beatles fan.
If you weren't a musician today what else could you see yourself doing?
Maybe a painter? Or maybe I’d open up my own animal rescue shelter. Or a chef!!!!!
Any advice for young and aspiring singers?
You will be rejected. Keep getting up, and never, ever give up. Do it because you LOVE it. And never let someone else’s insecurities determine your worth.
How has COVID-19 affected your career as a musician?
It’s been AWFUL. Musicians have been hit so hard from Covid... not being able to play shows has been extremely difficult, emotionally and financially.
I’ve done a few Instagram live shows, and am planning to do more! Lately, I’ve been writing lots of songs for commercial and tv placements. Having a studio at home has really come in handy during quarantine!!! I’m also releasing a new song this fall. :)
1 comment
Ren is amazing and has an incredible voice! She has what it takes to be a big star. I’m rooting for Ren all the way!!!! I admire her resiliency and honesty.