CMA Fest: Q & A With Taylor Austin Dye

Where and when are you playing during CMA Music Fest? June 3 – Pirhana’s 11:00-2:00, June 5 – Hooters 5:00-7:00, June 6 – Chasin’ Melodies at Dawghouse Saloon 6:00-7:00, June 6 – Bus Call at Tin Roof Downtown 8:00, June 7 – Hooters 5:00-7:00, June 8 – Broken Spoke 2:00-4:00

When did you start singing? I started singing “professionally” at age 5 where I was a performer at Renfro Valley’s Barn Dance and Young Country Show in Kentucky. 

Who are your musical influences? I draw inspiration from many artists and genres. Some of my biggest influences include Bobbie Gentry, John Prine, Jo Dee Messina, Miranda Lambert, and Kacey Musgraves.

What is your favorite concert you have attended? What made it memorable? My favorite concert I’ve ever attended was probably Paramore! I have been a long time fan of Haley Williams and the band and it was always a bucket list item for me. I also really enjoy seeing Billy Joel live and have seen him 5 times so far! 

What is your favorite place to perform? What do you like about it?
I can’t pinpoint my favorite venue to perform at; I love every stage I am able to play! It is always fun for me to play downtown Nashville, but also going back to do shows in my home state of Kentucky is amazing because of the support I receive from friends and family! 

Other than artists, who has been influential in your decision to become a singer? Someone who has influenced my career the most, aside from artists, has been my music teacher, Bob Wilson. I started taking fiddle lessons from Bob at age 5, and picked up many instruments over the years. Bob has always been a driving force and a huge supporter in my pursuit of music! I could never thank him enough for pushing me to do what I love! 

What was the first song you ever wrote? I think the first song I ever wrote was an upbeat number called “Drip Drop” and I was 12 years old. Here’s some lyrics I can remember off the top of my head. ? 
“Drip drop, drippity drop This rain keeps a-fallin’ like it’s never gonna stop 
Wait that’s not rain I think it’s tears,  Hittin’ the hardwood and missin’ you dear”

What is your favorite original song? What was the inspiration behind it? My favorite original song is one I wrote in 2018 called “Salt On The Wound.” The hook is “I never know what I’m gonna get when I’m with you, salt on the rim or salt on the wound.” The premise of the song is basically about a person who is so hot and cold, you never know how they will act when you are around them. I hope to release it as my next single! 

Where can people listen to your music before CMA Music Fest? If you’d like to hear any of my music, you can find it on any streaming service! I also make youtube videos, so just search “Taylor Austin Dye” if you’d like to check me out on there!  As for social media, I’m @tayloraustindye everywhere and tayloraustindye.com