Interview with Fiona Culley
Born and raised here in the UK, Fiona Culley is now making great waves in Nashville. We first interviewed the singer songwriter last year and now she is back with a brand new single and an album on the way. We caught up with Fiona again last week and had another chat!
Q: Hi Fiona, I’ve literally just heard your new single ‘Act Like a Lady’ and I have to say it’s fantastic. I love the attitude and the edginess of the song. Tell us how it came about!
A: I like to think “Act Like A Lady” is an anthem for women. It’s says that you can do anything a man can… I like to live my life that way.
Q: The song is the lead single from your upcoming debut album. What can you tell us about the album? And how exciting is it to be on the verge of your debut album release.
A: My album goes through all of the emotions. From strong and empowering songs to heartfelt ballads. I can’t wait for it to be released to the world, but at the same time it’s like having someone read your diary.
Q: Last year you released “Life on the Line”, a duet alongside Darius Rucker. The song is the theme tune of the film of the same name, starring John Travolta, Kate Bosworth and Sharon Stone. That must have been some experience, especially working alongside Darius.
A: I still can’t believe I got to sing with Darius Rucker. It was the most nerve racking day. He is not only an incredible artist but such a nice guy.
Q: It’s only 3 years since your cover of Ed Sheeran’s ‘Thinking Out Loud’ was named as ‘One to Watch’ by VH1. Nearly 3 million views later, how do you look back on that time. And what effect has it had on your career?
A: I love that song so much which is why we covered it. I had no expectations and certainly didn’t expect to get such a huge amount of views in such a short time frame. It really helped with my social media presence. We have done a few videos since… I have to really love a song to cover it otherwise it doesn’t feel real to me.
Q: Being a UK based site, we’re always exciting by UK artists making an impact on the scene. How do you find being a UK artist based in the US in a genre dominated by US artists?
A: I think being from the U.K. and living in Nashville has its pros and cons. It’s great as it’s different but I feel like sometimes that can be an issue. I’ve lived in Nashville for 5 years now and I think that has helped prove I am here to stay. Nashville is a huge city with a small town family feel. Everyone knows each other and I like it that way. This is the home of country music and I’ve spent the last few years getting my ‘country education’. I’m very grateful for that.
Q: The UK country scene is growing quickly. What advice would you give to an artist from the UK who is just starting out on the scene.
A: Be yourself and work hard.
Q: Are there any plans for you to head back to the UK. I for one would love to see you make an appearance at the Country 2 Country music festival!
A: Me too.. sign me up and I’m there!!
Q: What are your plans for the coming weeks and months. And tell readers where they can get their hands on your new single!
A: I still have a couple of weeks left on my radio tour. I’ve been on the road for the last 4 months visiting so many different states, it’s been amazing. My single is available on iTunes, Spotify, and there is a live acoustic video on YouTube. Visit www.fionaculley.com to get to all of my socials!
