In this exclusive interview with Spinex Music, the multi-talented songstress Kerrigan Barry opens up about her music, hobbies, lifestyle, and much more. As an artist, Kerrigan Barry is driven by a deep desire to create music that uplifts and empowers, aiming to offer solace to those in need and spark liberation in weary hearts.
Her latest single, “Bittersweet,” is a testament to this ethos, and it is now available for streaming on all platforms. Stay tuned as Kerrigan Barry shares her insights, inspirations, and aspirations in this revealing conversation with Spinex Music.
Read excerpts of the interview below:
Who is Kerrigan Barry?
In short, I’m someone who will never be what anyone else wants me to be. At the end of the day, I am and will always be a writer—that’s my superpower, and it’s probably the only label I have that no one else can argue with. Aside from that, I’m both a rose and a razor, depending on who you ask. I was baptized by rock n’ roll, raised on boxed wine and stolen tequila in plastic water bottles. I’m a daughter, a sister and a friend; I’m your greatest champion and your fiercest challenger. A friend of mine once told me that my fuse could get sparked by someone merely lighting a cigarette across the street, and I can’t disagree with that statement. I’m a big fan of the underdog. I’m also a closet nerd and a stone cold weirdo. I feel everything to the fullest extent, and I make music to cope with it. I’m a little fucked up, but I like to think it gives me character.
What inspired you to write “Bittersweet”?
Bittersweet was written after I heard that one of my exes used details from my private life to win points during a drinking game. My friends were sick of hearing me bitch about the situation because it’s not like this guy being an asshole was some big surprise, everyone knew who he was. The entire relationship was this hedonistic game of cat and mouse, and it was no secret that it wasn’t going to end well for me— I was fully aware he and I had no future. So, I wrote Bittersweet to say ‘hey, you suck, but I still played your game and rode the rollercoaster. Thanks for the ride.’
How would you describe the music that you typically create?
I write the way I speak. For as long as I can remember, I’ve been the one to say what everyone else was thinking, so I try to do that with my music, too. Words are really important to me, so I try to make them count. From a production perspective, I’m inspired by the raw energy of rock and punk, but I also love the immersive wall of sound that comes with today’s pop scene.
On a scale of 1 to 5201, how good is your new single compared to your last one?
I think that depends on who’s listening and what kind of message they need to hear. I make music to help myself, but I ultimately want to give everyone else around me a sense of relief.
How many songs /albums have you released to date?
I currently have 2 singles available on all platforms— Bittersweet and We Don’t Talk Anymore.
What would you be doing right now, if it wasn’t for your music career?
I actually work in PR and artist development, in addition to writing, recording and performing. I’ve also got a freelance photography gig, and I dabble in graphic design.
How long have you been making music?
I wrote my first song when I was 5, if I remember correctly.
What are your hobbies?
Aside from writing and being on stage, I love photography and art. One of my daily rituals is taking my dog for a long walk, and I’ve got 2 cats that I treat like my children. I’m definitely an extrovert, so I thrive on night life— I’ll go out to see live music whenever I get the chance.
How do you feel the Internet has impacted the music business?
Well, as I mentioned, I work in PR and artist development, so the internet opens up a massive line of communication. I’ve been able to connect with artists and outlets all over the world. One of my favorite things is checking streaming analytics and seeing I’ve got a fanbase in another country, it’s a crazy feeling.
If you had one message to give to your fans what will it be?
To anyone that’s listened and loved my music, I think of us as kindred spirits. If I can offer you anything at all, I hope it is the inspiration for you to be yourself. My mantra has always been, “Fly your rebel flag high, and if they don’t like it, fuck ‘em.” Stay wild.
