Music Interview: Savannah Outen

Savannah Outen is a singer/songwriter, who I have been a fan since her early days covering songs on YouTube. Her music career began in 2007 when she started posting her covers on YouTube. From there, she got to perform at the 85th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade, attend the American Music Awards, and much more. What attracted me to her covers and original music was her unique sound. Her edgy, soulful sound is one you can’t forget. I got a chance to chat with the singer/songwriter about her new music, what it’s like to be a part of the YouTube music community and more.

TYF: You have posted YouTube videos since 2007. How has your sound/vocals changed since then?
Savannah Outen: My voice has changed so much. It’s a lot stronger now. I feel like I finally found my voice 4 years ago. My sound has definitely changed as well. When I first started releasing original music, it was very pop. But now it’s more mature with rhythmic flares to it.

TYF: How has YouTube played a part in your music career?
Outen: It’s the reason I get to do what I love. If it weren’t for YouTube, I seriously wouldn’t be here. It’s been such an amazing platform to reach people all over the world with my music.

TYF: Touching on your start on YouTube, I have been a fan of yours since you started videos on the platform. What are some of your favorite covers that you have done?
Outen: My favorite song that I have covered is Hallelujah. It is such a beautiful and emotional song. I love singing it.

TYF: Are there any YouTubers you want to collaborate with in the future?
Outen: MirandaSings was always on my list and luckily, I got to check that off a few years ago! But now I would love to collaborate Pentatonix!

TYF: Why would you like to collaborate with Pentatonix?
Outen: They are incredibly talented and I think it would be fun to do a Justin Timberlake acapella mashup together!

TYF: Speaking of song choice, how did you pick which songs to cover for your YouTube channel?
Outen: I usually look at the charts and see what is popular. If I can find an arrangement I like, I’ll cover it. Other times, there are songs that I’m obsessed with and I cover them even if I know it won’t get a lot of views. Haha!

TYF: Are there any songs that you’re dying to record a cover of?
Outen: I really want to cover “Congratulations” by Post Malone!! I love that song! I want to turn it into a ballad.

TYF: Switching gears, I read that you took a break from writing music and spent some time trying to figure out who you are as an artist – what did you during that break?
Outen: I was releasing original music but I just didn’t feel that close to it. So I took some time to really figure out what I wanted to say, who I am, and what I want my music to sound like. It took some deep soul searching but I’ve finally found something I love and am proud of.

TYF: How did this break help you find your sound?
Outen: It helped me really dig deep down and figure out what kind of music I wanted to create. I am a huge music lover. I love so many genres, but sometimes that can hurt my songwriting because I don’t zone into one specific genre. So I had to figure out what I liked about each artist I look up to and create my sound.

TYF: Speaking of new music, you have a new single out called “Coins.” Can you walk us through the writing process of putting together this song?
Outen: We had so much fun in that session! I wanted to write an anthem for my supporters. I was so over being told who I should be from the industry. So, this is my response to those people!

TYF: How did you come up with the title of the track?
Outen: I had the title in my notes. I write down a ton of random words and titles and sometimes they inspire things.

TYF: During the writing process, have you ever stumbled on writer’s block?
Outen: All of the time! It gets so frustrating but I have to take a step back, do something else I love to do, like cooking or dancing, and wait until it comes back to me. I have learned to not get annoyed when that happens because it just means you need to give your mind a quick, little break. You have to go live some more life to write about.

TYF: You’ll also be putting out new music later this year, can you give us a hint as to what fans can expect?
Outen: I am SO excited about the next single! I can give you one hint, the new music is emotional and very personal. (lol)

TYF: Will you be going on tour once your new music is out? 
Outen: I actually just got off a tour with Haley Reinhart from American Idol! It was so much fun! I definitely want to do some more touring. My band and I have the best time!

TYF: Lastly, for young artists who are trying to break into the music scene, what advice would you give them?
Outen: Be persistent. You are going to hear “No” all the time, but if you really love it and can’t picture a day without music, you will reach your dreams.

You can find out more about Savannah Outen and her music by visiting her website.