Interview: Austin singer Robynn Shayne dropped a true country record today
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All photos: Brandon Sandler
Guest contributor: Heather Forrester
Austin singer-songwriter Robynn Shayne uses a hashtag to promote her work. It’s called #HustleWithGrace. When asked about the meaning behind this tag she explained that it’s about positive flow, not being a jerk or trying to step on anyone while making your dreams happen. It’s about artists helping other artists rise to the top. To the top is where Robynn is headed. The Cosmic Clash recently sat down with Robynn at Detroit style pizza-pie joint VIA 313 in Austin to discuss her latest album, Coffee Days and Whiskey Nights. This is Robynn’s third release, after her self-titled debut and a sophomore album Rebel Child.
Heather: Tell me about your new album and the running theme?
Robynn: Well it has six songs on it and they’re all pretty honky-tonk for the most part. This is a true representation of me and probably my favorite record to date
Heather: Tell me about the recording process, didn’t you fly to Nashville to record?
Robynn: I did! I went to Great Hill Productions to work with our buddy Shawn Byrne whom I met at the Dripping Springs Songwriting Festival
Heather: What was the mood/inspiration while you were there?
Robynn: Whiskey? Just kidding. Actually, I grew up listening to Loretta Lynn, Dolly Parton and Merle Haggard and I wanted to put a real country feel on this one. My last albums have been a little more rock and country. This one is really country which I thought would be fun to do. I just call this kind of album honky tonk like what my dad played in the 80s.
Heather: How about a vinyl release?
Robynn: Yes, Austin Signal is doing the vinyl.
Heather: What are your touring plans for the new album?
Robynn: May 12th at the Saxon Pub is the album release show. Our goal is to tour outside of Austin. We are currently in the middle of a Radio Tour promoting the title track to the new record and will piggy back off of that for the new record.
Heather: In seeking out the right venue(s) would you say you have staple venues?
Robynn: Yes, the Saxon Pub in Austin and Coupland Dancehall in Coupland, Texas. The Coupland Dance Hall is historic where you can dance, and my music is made for dancing. Also, I’m looking to get back up into Ft Worth like at Billy Bob’s where I will be playing May 27th. Would also love to play Gruene Hall. I’m still discovering where we’ll be the best fit. I want people to feel my music and feel good when they hear it.
Heather: Let’s touch on what you were doing right before this album drops, didn’t you play some showcases at SXSW?
Robynn: Yes, we played the KOKE FM Rooftop Showcase at The Ranch. We also played the Big Red Drum Showcase at Stiles Switch BBQ, that’s two years in a row we’ve played out there. It has great BBQ and a nice patio.
Heather: What about playing out of town festivals?
Robynn: Yes, I played showcases this year at the Steamboat Music Fest in Colorado.
Heather: You can say that this album is the essence of Robynn, could you not? Whiskey, coffee and having a good time?
Robynn: Yes, exactly! Having a good time in life and not taking it too seriously.
Coffee Days and Whiskey Nights drops today. You can hear Robynn’s music on iTunes, Amazon, Spotify, Soundcloud and more. The new record is available everywhere music is sold. We recommend supporting your local, independently-owned record shops.
Find upcoming Texas tour dates on Robynn’s website. The singer will be performing at Saxon Pub on May 12. Tickets are available directly from the venue.
