Megan Katarina

MEGAN KATARINA “BEING CRAZY AIN’T FOR THE WEAK” ALBUM REVIEW
By Kristin Whyte / April 13, 2018
While many artists release a personal project at some point during their career, Megan Katarina is laying it all out for us right away, making “Being Crazy Ain’t For The Weak” one of the most raw and authentic projects I have ever experienced. With her vulnerability at the forefront, we get to know Megan as she brings us deep into her story, and for her fans or new listeners like myself, there is an instant connection and appreciation.

“Anchor” kicks off Part 1 and reveals her struggle. A struggle that in some way, we have all gone through. Her set up and impeccable story telling leaves us no choice but to truly invest in this entire project.

First there is rage, then there is reflection. We see these stages in “Weak Moment”, and the ever so exposed, “He’s Seen Me Naked”, when the first moments of realization take place.

I can’t say that he took his time,
Stripping me down to my pride
I never took off my dress that first night
But he peeled the layers beyond site.
A ray of light shines through in “I’m Gettin’ Drunk”. While it could all be a mask to conceal the pain, this song brings out a carefree vibe. It is just the type of song we need to hear when we are the process of grieving. Not to mention, it sounds like it belongs on a classic 90’s female country playlist with the best of them.

The mood drastically changes in “8 Months Sober”, the closing track to Part 1 of this record. This song is bursting with emotion. While her words are convincing, we are still left on edge.

I’m 8 months sober, still hungover,
The thirst ain’t gone yet, but I’m getting closer
You’re out of my system, still feel the addiction,
I know it’s for the better, but I still know what I’m missing.
Just because I’m clean, don’t mean it’s over, but I’m 8 months sober.
Instantly upbeat, “Brave Heart” sets the tone for Part 2. We are breathing easy knowing that with this story comes a happy ending, positive self-reflection, and a lesson to all listeners that relate.

When you tore me apart, you gave me a brave heart,
I gave you everything, and I lost everything.
Or so I thought…
But if I never took a shot and loved so hard, I’d never have a brave heart.
“Doin What’s Easy” is somewhat of a clever thank you letter. It is the second you realize, all of this was for the best, and that feeling of relief that comes along with it.

And just after that moment, the pieces fall back into place. “It’s Not You It’s Me” is a bubbly and uplifting piece about becoming yourself again. You cannot help but listen to this song with a smile on your face.

Knock Knock, Who’s there, a brand new girl who don’t care,
When you turned forever into whatever,
You did you and I did better, so it’s me that you miss, boy how can I put this,
I don’t mean to be mean, but as you would say,
Hey, it’s not you it’s me.
“Being Crazy Ain’t for the Weak” is Megan’s moment on this record. Her voice and confidence soars. She is proud of who she is, and ready for what life brings her next.

This entire album exemplifies her range, diversity, and story-telling ability as an artist. It is memorable and will become something to turn to in trying times. It is clear that Megan Katarina accomplished just what she set out to do with this record, and it will become a defining moment as she launches her career. - Got Country

Let’s Talk Megan Katarina
So, you just found yourself thinking about your ex again, huh? And maybe you’re cursing yourself for having been so vulnerable with them, too? Well, have no fear, because I have a sure-fire way to reconcile with those foul feelings: listen to “He’s Seen Me Naked” by Megan Katarina. This song is not for the passive music listeners; I find myself dramatically lip syncing along to the smart lyrics when I listen. (“He’s shaken hands with my shame” hits me right in the heartstrings, every time). Katarina’s haunting vocals emote vulnerability and pain with a precision that can only be achieved by those who have mastered their craft- her voice manages to be both powerful and delicate at the same time. Katarina’s vocals on this track are potent, Carrie Underwood-esque, and indicate that this is just the start of a long and successful country music career.

If you want more of Megan Katarina’s music, her full album “Being Crazy Aint For The Weak” is set to be released April 13th. If you go pre-order the album right now, you will also receive the song “Brave Heart”, which is a perfect companion to “He’s Seen Me Naked”. Its upbeat tune and catchy lyrics will make you feel as if you’re in the car with the top down, smiling, sunglasses on, hair blowing in the wind, and headed for a fresh start.

There are only eleven days left until Megan Katarina’s first full album makes its way to the country music airwaves, and I, for one, cannot wait to hear its impact. - Kel's Review

Singer/songwriter Megan Katarina is busy, inside and outside of the studio. In the spring of 2015, she purchased a 1968 Airstream Tradewind and is currently working to renovate it and turn it into a tour bus.

A bus that will be put to good use because her first full-length album released last Friday. The album, Being Crazy Ain’t for the Weak, was produced by Jared Anderson and recorded live at OmniSound Studios.





The first single, “He’s Seen Me Naked,” is, in her own words…

“the most vulnerable song that I’ve ever written and being that vulnerability and transparency has kinda become my thing, it only makes sense that this be the first.”

The LP is a ‘coming of age’ one – divided into two parts: “Anchor” and “Wings.” Pages from her diary became the lyrics. It is based on true experiences, especially past relationships and her battle with anxiety and depression.

Here’s a video of Katarina singing “Anchor”



How did growing up in Florida influence your music?

“I grew up right next to the St. Johns River. So we would go out on the boat every weekend and all the rednecks were always playing their country. Of course, as I got older and started to go out I really enjoyed the reggae and soul bands that we have an abundance of on the beach. Reggae/punk rock and traditional country were my biggest requests when I played out. So I developed a really diverse set list and taste in music.”



As a young child, you began writing poetry and music, ala Shel Silverstein and Martina McBride. What poems/songs of theirs inspired you?

“The first song I ever learned and sang the whole way through was ‘Concrete Angel‘ by Martina McBride when I was in first grade for the talent show. I literally remember my mom helping me studying her lyric sheets from the CD Case! I love the storytelling. I can’t pick a favorite Shel Silverstein poem because I absolutely adore all of his poems still to this day, but one particular poem of his that inspires me is called “Magic”. Everything he writes seems like children’s literature because it’s so surface but almost all of it has an underlying moral or story and that is so beautiful to me!”

Can you remember the first time you wrote a song?

“Yes! I was 6 or 7 years old and I believe it was about my Dad!”

Who gave you the support to keep writing in the beginning? Who did you play the early songs for?

“My parents, definitely. They have always been my biggest fans and supporters. My Dad gave me my love for lyrics and storytelling and we could go on and on for hours about good music. He’s always been very fascinated and proud of my abilities and I think that’s why he’s always wanted to support my career wholeheartedly!”



Putting your heart and soul into your lyrics can be cathartic and daunting at the same time.

What are the backstories to the songs on your upcoming album, “Being Crazy Ain’t For the Weak?”

“That’s very true! There are a lot of stories, and all of these songs are based on true stories. But collectively, I guess, I wrote most of these songs about a time in my life where I used relationships to distract me from my own issues. Toxic relationships, usually. I was struggling badly with anxiety and depression, and the recovery was long and hard. It took hitting rock bottom and finally accepting being alone. And it was just so brutal. I fought my destiny so hard. I felt very misunderstood. I would do impulsive, reckless things because I literally didn’t care what happened to me. That’s why the album is divided into parts ‘Anchor’ and ‘Wings.’ ‘Anchor’ was that long, hard part with all the messiness and darkness. ‘Wings’ was/is about the redemptive part of life, the recovery, the ‘Oh, so that’s why that happened’ and the time I found my worth. I will say that about 7 out of the 10 songs are inspired by one particular relationship and it feels kind of good to make this art that I’m so proud of inspired by something that put me through so much BS!”

“He’s Seen Me Naked” The song placed third out of 2,500+ submissions in the 2017 NSAI songwriting competition and third in the country division of the 2017 John Lennon Songwriting Contest.

What do you think draws in listeners with this song?



“For one, that song was a work tape. It is crazy rare for a work tape to make it in the top 10 in a contest. So I think that definitely set it apart. Also, it is incredibly vulnerable. Talking about someone ‘calling your demons by name’ is not something you hear all the time, but I think everyone has loved someone who knows them that well to the point that when it’s over, there’s this feeling of embarrassment and fear that you let someone in that deeply. Also, the title usually perks people’s ears up!”

You’ve co-written songs for other artists, including Tyler Rich, Ryan Robinette, and Tana Matz. Is the songwriting process different when you’re writing for others?

“Yes, it’s very different! You have to feel out the other artist’s writing style and go with it. I find myself often saying ‘Are you okay with that?’ or something like that to the artist because I don’t want to write a song that they don’t even want to record. You have to let them lead and just humbly offer up your ideas with no ego. And keep in mind that what you think would be the best isn’t always going to be what they think will be. No one’s wrong. It’s just art. That’s the point!”

If you could open up for any artist on tour right now who would it be?

“It’s a tie between Kacey Musgraves and John Mayer. (I’m basic, haha)”

What’s your motto or the advice you live by?

“My favorite quote by Paulo Coehlho, which I quote all the time-

‘Tell your heart that the fear of suffering is worse than the suffering itself. And that no heart has ever suffered when it goes in search of its dreams, because every second of the search is a second’s encounter with God and with eternity.'”

What is your favorite song to belt out in your car?

“Right now it is ‘Learn To Let Go‘ by Kesha. I love her!” - CM Chat