Hey Kendra! So excited to be chatting with you! How did you come up with the name “Kendra and the Bunnies”?
Thanks so much for inviting me to interview with you today. The main reasoning behind the name “Kendra & the Bunnies” stems from a few things. First, one of my favorite songs is “White Rabbit” by Jefferson Airplane. Not to mention, the white rabbit from Alice in Wonderland is a character I really appreciate too. The entire story, the rabbit is scrambled with stress and concerned about not having enough time. It’s a representation of anxiety and desire for control. I reflect high stakes themes in my songs next to relaxed vibes. Then there is a representation on the other end of the spectrum of bunnies… there is the element of a blonde Playboy bunny; I live somewhere amidst those extremes.
Can you tell us a little something about yourself?
I am a highly meticulous go-with-the-flow type of person. I love to experience spontaneous adventures, while also setting boundaries, keeping a schedule, and knowing particulars. It’s like when I go into a performance. I love the improvisation aspect of jam rock ‘n roll music, however, I like to have my songs down to such a point that I know them inside out.
What inspired you to pursue music?
My desire for in-the-spotlight action. My background in musical theatre. My love for poetry, storytelling, and singing along to songs. I pursue music because it is what I am all about. I write, perform, record, review, collaborate, create music because writing a good song is one of the raddest feelings in the world. When you sing back the lyrics and think… this one is golden.
How would you describe your musical style?
Lovingly… Folk Rock Americana… “Her style has been said to remind listeners of Grace Slick from Jefferson Airplane if she were to be singing Grateful Dead songs. It’s like Joni Mitchell and Stevie Nicks sat down to play a game of poker and Neil Young were the dealer.” The 1970s meets the 1990s.
What artists do you look up to right now?
Rising Appalachia, Grace Potter, John Mayer, up & coming artists in the jam band scene right now like The Higgs.
You just released a single “Silent Sleeper”! How excited were you to get this project out into the world?!?
Actually, very excited. I wrote the lyrics and melody to this song back in 2017. The song patiently waited on my iPhone voice memos for 2 years before being added to chords and made into the brilliant 3-part ambient song of hope that it is today. I would think of the melody quite often. In-fact, I think there is another rendition and arrangement in “Silent Sleeper”. I’d like to record/perform it sometime in a show-tune style. Upbeat and big band.
Can you tell us what this song means to you?
This song is an offering of comfort from one character to another. With an element of dreaming being the driving force behind “Silent Sleeper”, this song’s context allows for themes of guidance, compassion, and protection. It is about growing up and making decisions for one’s self.
What do you hope your supporters feel after hearing the new song?
My intention through this song is to bring about a feeling of peace and balance. Peace to wipe the slate clean, and balance to build on one’s foundation. It’s even like the song can function as a reset button for your mood or mind. It can serve as a reminder that all is good, and you are on your way!
Why do you think social media is so important for artists today?
I think social media holds a lot of importance for artists today, because it is like a rotating representation of who a creative person is, what they stand for, and what they are doing with their message. It’s got so many implications to it too. Like my profile can be seen by people all over the world. When I land on the Instagram Explore & Discover page, hundreds to thousands of more people receive access to my music. It is great outreach. I’d almost consider Spotify for Artists social media too. In the sense that there is an algorithm, and I update and maintain my artist page.
How has this whole music career experience been?
Long and winding road. I am starting to get a sense as to why it seems a lot of rock ‘n rollers seem ‘seasoned/wise beyond their years’. It’s because we go through a lot. There is a lot of learning from the visceral effect of putting all my loving work and music out there to be listened to and discussed. I think there is a lot of power in chosen vulnerability. This music career experience is great. I dig it.
Do you have any advice for aspiring music artists?
Go see live music (take notes) and listen to classic jazz.
Thank you for your time!
Thanks so much for inviting me to interview today!!
Peace!
End of Interview