Interview: Savannah Outen

Savannah Outen has 600K+ YouTube subscribers, over 150 million YouTube views, and is hot off the success of her debut single, “Boys.” We had the opportunity to talk to Savannah about her career, debut single, and musical inspirations. Read what she had to say below and be sure to subscribe to her channel!

Tell us a little bit about your musical background.  You play piano and guitar, specifically. How did you get your start?

I’ve been singing my whole life. It was always a huge part of my life. My parents bought me a guitar for Christmas when I was 13 and I fell in love with it. Now I can’t imagine my life without a guitar. 

You uploaded your first YouTube video about 8 years ago. How has YouTube helped kickstart your career?

I can’t believe that was 8 years ago! YouTube has been an amazing way to reach people all over the world. It’s been so helpful in sharing my music with people who never would’ve known who I am.

Would you say you have changed as an artist since your debut with songs like “Goodbyes”? How so?

100%. I was in 7th grade when I wrote “Goodbyes” and it was the first song I ever wrote. I’ve grown so much and gone through a lot since then. I have a secure sense of self and who I am as an artist now.

We’d like to congratulate you on your debut original, “Boys!” You’ve said that you were inspired to write this song after passing a stranger in New York. When you’re writing, does inspiration typically come as easily?

Thank you so much! And yes, I get inspired at the most random times. Sometimes I’ll be at the grocery store and think of a melody and have to record it secretly into my phone so no one thinks I’m a weirdo, LOL. Conversations I overhear inspire ideas too. Sometimes when I’m in a session it takes a minute to figure out what I want to say or what message I want to convey, but it’s such a fun process every time!

Who are your musical influences? Have they changed significantly over time?

I’m inspired by so many artists. My top influences are Celine Dion and Justin Timberlake. Celine is such an incredible singer and carries herself so well. I love Justin’s style and how he’s always changing his sound. I also love Bon Iver, John Mayer, and Adele.

You seem to be really active connecting with your fans.  Could you talk about that and its importance to you?

It’s so important! They are the reason I’m living my dreams and doing what I love! I love talking to them, having a relationship with them, and especially meeting them in person. That’s the best!

Obviously your YouTube channel has covered a variety of songs and genres. What’s your favorite cover or collaboration you have done?

My favorite cover that I’ve done is from a few years ago, it’s “Hallelujah” by Jeff Buckley. That’s gotta be one of the best songs in the world and I was so scared to even touch it, but I put my own spin on it and had the best time. We turned off all the lights and lit a ton of candles while recording and it was a really memorable experience. I also loved doing my collab with Mirandasings. I’m her #1 fan ;)

What’s next for you? What can we look forward to in terms of touring and new releases?

More music! I’ve been working really hard in the studio, staying focused, and constantly writing. Hopefully everyone will hear something very, very soon :)

Filed under: Interviews Tagged: boys, interview, savannah outen, youtube