‘It has changed me as a person’ - Music dream continues for former Nairn Ness Factor finalist
A Nairn singer who took part in a major Highland fundraising event last year said it has changed her, making her a much more confident performer.
She credits the competition with helping her overcome anxiety and gain more confidence in performing.
“It has changed me as a person,” she said.
“I do highly recommend applying for this kind of event, firstly because you are helping yourself - whether for mental health reasons, anxiety, lack of confidence or something to do. But this is also a great way to raise money for these charities that require fundraising to keep going. You never know, one day we may require their services.”
Since Ness Factor, she has also continued performing for charity events with some of her fellow finalists, who she said have become like family to her.
“Liam Christie - who everyone will know is a great supporter of charities, fundraising and organising events - has been my rock,” she said.
“With his knowledge and experience within the events world, and his Ness Factor experience from hosting it as well from the very beginning, it's thanks to him for supporting and guiding me that I am where I am today.
“I also had the opportunity to open up the Black Isle music tent this year as a solo performer. Since then, I have had a fair few local pubs get in touch for me to sing.”
Although she said she doesn't have any plans to push for recording deals, she enjoys performing at gigs either as a solo artist or with her new band, NessiX, formed in April this year.
She said: “I've wanted to be part of a band for the last few years, as I love a wide variety of music.
“Ebo Mcdowall - also known by some as ‘The Vandal’ - is another inspiration in getting me into the music scene during my Ness Factor journey, with lots of rehearsing, learning new songs, performing together at open mics and giving me his advice on how to work a crowd as a performer.
“With NessiX, we were originally a six-piece band - hence the name - sadly Garry Clark, who was also a Ness Factor finalist, had to leave due to personal circumstances.
“It was myself and Garry who wanted to get into a band as we missed the group meet-ups (after Ness Factor) and felt lost.”
The band focuses on covers of songs by the likes of Fleetwood Mac, AC/DC, Guns N’ Roses and others, with “big plans” for new material, including original songs.
“It's just a great opportunity to do something I have a passion for and gives me a real buzz,” Katie said.
The band’s first public performance together was at the Nairn Book and Arts Festival’s town takeover at the end of August.
“Nairn is a great place to sing,” Katie said.
“I have a soft spot for The Bandstand. They have so many amazing musicians playing and give new people an opportunity to sing at their open mics every Sunday.”
Katie also has some solo performances lined up as well as others performing as a duo with with Liam Christie while plans for another charity event are ongoing.
For this year's Ness Factor she is supporting fellow Nairnite Jo Turner, who she pushed to apply.
Katie said: “She has a unique voice, I was blown away. I am also helping Halde Pottinger on the #bigred project. But at the moment it's all top secret. Watch this space!”
