“Stand Tall” is the new music video from singer-songwriter Kim Kline. It’s a song about the pervasive problem of bullying in today’s society, a predicament Kline experienced when she was younger.
The single, produced by Cristian Robles, is from Kline’s forthcoming album, Exhale. The video, directed by Clark Langon, speaks straight from the heart, encouraging victims to recognize their self-worth as individuals, and witnesses to intervene when they notice bullying occurring.
CelebMix sat down with Kim Kline to discover the inspiration behind “Stand Tall,” along with the song’s actual writing process, which borders on the magical.
How would you describe yourself?
I’m fun loving, very driven, and someone who loves to laugh and enjoys the little things in life. I don’t take myself too seriously and I’m a complete neat freak! I don’t drink and I’m a great designated driver. I’ve a tomboy streak in me but that probably makes sense being that I’m from Texas.
What is the most trouble you’ve ever gotten into?
In high school I drove from Texas to Tennessee, I had told my mother I was leaving my car at my boyfriend’s house. Busted, Whoops!
What’s your favorite song to belt out in the car or the shower?
I love to belt out some Lady Gaga in the car, but I play it cool at red lights (so as not to get weird looks!) …unless I’m invited to do Carpool karaoke with James Cordon in which case all bets are off!
Who is your favorite music artist?
Adele, her voice is just unbelievably gorgeous, Stevie Nicks, timeless, classic, … Bruno Mars, Ed Sheeran, The Weeknd, … oops that’s more than one!
How did you get started in music? What’s the backstory there?
I got started in music as a child, I would sing any chance I could get; church choirs, pageants, school events etc. My mother’s love of music was inherited by me as a toddler and has been in my soul for as long as I can remember.
What musicians influenced you the most?
Adele, Stevie Nicks, The Weeknd, Bruno Mars, Lady Gaga, the list goes on and on.
Your sound is described as “pop-rock.” How would you describe it?
My music is universal. It’s very catchy with melodic hooks that are easy for the listener to not only relate to but connect with. The relatability is key, since music can be an escape, a moment in time in one’s life or an experience the listener has gone through which the song connects them to. I think that defines connection to music for the listener, defines my music, defines me!
Your latest music video is entitled “Stand Tall.” What’s the story behind the song?
It was after seeing numerous things in the media about bullying and the effects it can have on children and their families, I found myself so saddened. I couldn’t even fathom how and why it drives some to commit death-by-suicide. My heart was just broken that kids/people are living this nightmare. It became embedded in my subconscious. So, when writing this album Exhale, I went to my co-writer’s house, who started strumming his guitar, causing this song to just pour out of me. The lyrics and melody came out effortlessly, it was meant to be.
What is your song-writing process? Music first, or lyrics?
My song writing process is “usually” with a guitarist/musician, and when they play it’s as if the guitar is speaking to me, the lyrics and melody just flow out of me. At times when I am traveling my co-writers will send a basic track/demo for me to write to. I’ve written songs on napkins, scraps of paper, anything I can get my hands on to make sure I don’t miss the moment when inspiration strikes.
Most artists like to believe their music is evolving. Is yours? If so, is it becoming more pop-flavored or leaning toward other influences?
My music has definitely evolved as I have, with different experiences and challenges in my life. My music is pretty much an autobiography of my life. I think it’s pop-flavored which is fair to say as “pop” is popular music and that’s what I’m writing, it’s broad in its appeal. The production is a collaboration of my passion and love for music of all styles and genres. We weren’t really trying to put it box or category, we simply sought to make music and an album that gives you goose bumps when you listen to it.
Your forthcoming album, Exhale, takes a different direction, looking outward rather than inward. What inspired the new direction?
This album “Exhale” is all about the camaraderie with others, the co-writers, the musicians, the listeners. In the past my music was very inward facing like a personal journal or a diary. My music now connects to others and inspires them though my eyes and my experiences which I feel is one of the greatest gifts I can share. When I’ve inspired others, I know I’ve achieved a lot.
Will you be doing any touring?
Absolutely, gearing up to tour as we speak… lots to announce in 2019 so stay tuned, I’m very excited.