We recently caught Kristen's show at the Brimstone Tavern in Pembroke. WOW! Blown away.  After checking out her video, read more about her in a Q&A with SSW below...

video credit: jakecurtisblog

Kristen is trying to get the attention of Ellen DeGeneres who started her own record label (eleveneleven) and is looking for new talent. Watch Kristen's video, catch an upcoming show, and then write in to Ellen!!!  

SSW recently caught up with 26 year-old Kristen (from Hanson) to find out about her background, her American Idol experience, and all of the great things currently in the works!  

SSW: At what age did you start singing and playing guitar and when did you realize you wanted to pursue this as a serious career?

KM: I've been singing every since I can remember. I had my first solo when I was in the first grade. I was always involved with chorus classes, church choirs, a capella groups, musical productions etc...I taught myself how to play the acoustic guitar when I was a junior in High School. From that point on I began to write my own material and played them at open mics all over the place. It was then that I slowly worked my way into the bar scene, playing a mix of covers and originals. I've always seen music as an outlet for emotions and a great way to deal with what life throws you. I enjoy being able to share my passion with everyone, especially if my music can touch the lives of others in one way or another.

SSW: Tell us a little bit about the American Idol audition. Was it what you expected? What were the judges’ comments?

 KM: The American Idol Audition was quite the long process. I was super excited to be a part of it, but also ridiculously nervous! Making it to the top 100 out of 7,000 was quite the accomplishment. It was interesting to see the "behind the scenes" of the making of this show. The judges seemed to be all business and no play. In the end, I was told I was "too theatrical" and "not heartfelt".  Although crushed by these remark, I held my head high and continued to go back to the local bar scene and rock the mic!

SSW: Did you walk away from the Idol audition/experience with any lessons learned, or perhaps a renewed sense of what kind of performer you want to be?

KM: I didn't really walk away much different than when I went in. It was sad to see that the show was not so much talent-based. It led me to pursue my career that much more, just to prove that real talent can and will make it.

SSW: Who are your musical idols (the artists that inspire you)?

KM: I don't so much have any idol, however, I do very much enjoy the music of Missy Higgins and Colbie Caillat.

SSW: Aside from playing cover songs during your performances you also sing some of the songs you've written. How would you describe your genre/style?     And, do you have a CD with your original work that people can buy?

KM: I always like to mix it up in my sets and slide in a few originals here and there throughout the night. I have a style all my own, however, some may say it is a bit of a pop/country crossover sound. I am currently working on my first original album under Producer/Engineer Taylor Barefoot at Barefoot Productions in Brighton, MA. This album is expected to drop mid-year 2011. It will be available through my website www.KristenMerlinMusic.com as well as iTunes, CDBaby, Amazon etc.

SSW: We know you are trying to get the attention of Ellen DeGeneres (who has a new recording label). What can your fans do to help you in that effort?

 KM:  I am asking that all fans write in to Ellen with a blurb about me and how she should check me and or my site out and bring me on board her label!

Contact Ellen at:  http://ellen.warnerbros.com/show/respond/?PlugID=398

Comments(1):

1. Kristen Merlin

   Catch Kristen this Saturday night at the Fireside Grille at Middleboro rotary from 8-11 Her performance is incredible! You must hear one of her originals "Confusion" which plays as you open her web site www.kristenmerlinmusic.com A hit for sure!!

   Friday, February 11, 2011 Kelly