Kerry Kimmel Spills the Tea on Her Songwriting Success

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Welcome to an insightful exploration of the music industry through the eyes of Kerry Kimmel, an accomplished singer-songwriter. In this blog, we delve into her journey, the challenges she faced, and the successes she achieved in her career, which includes having her music featured in over 650 movies, TV shows, and commercials. From her humble beginnings to finding her niche in music licensing, Kerry's story is both inspiring and informative.

Getting Started in Music

Kerry Kimmel hails from Florida, where she began her musical journey in high school. She was part of a band and started writing music early on. Reflecting on those initial songs, she admits they were not great, but they were a necessary stepping stone toward her growth as an artist.

After her high school days, Kerry secured a record deal with Atlantic Records, followed by a publishing deal with Chrysalis and another record deal with Virgin Records. However, as she would later discover, the music industry can be unpredictable. The president of Virgin was replaced, and with that change, Kerry's future at the label became uncertain.

The Move to LA and Early Struggles

In pursuit of her dreams, Kerry made the bold decision to move to Los Angeles. This transition was a significant step, one that many artists find daunting. She stayed with a friend and faced the typical struggles of an aspiring musician trying to make it in a big city.

Kerry recalls how difficult it was to adjust to the competitive environment in LA. She felt like a small fish in a big pond, surrounded by talented individuals all vying for the same opportunities. Despite the challenges, Kerry remained determined to carve out her space in the music world.

Overcoming Setbacks

Throughout her career, Kerry faced numerous setbacks, including losing her record deals. Initially, this felt like a significant blow, leaving her questioning her future in music. However, she recognized these challenges as opportunities for growth. Instead of giving up, she pivoted her focus towards songwriting and music placements in TV and film.

This shift proved to be a turning point in her career. By embracing the opportunities that came her way, Kerry began to see success in a different light. Her resilience and adaptability allowed her to thrive in an industry where many others falter.

Finding Success in Music Licensing

Today, Kerry is best known for her extensive work in music licensing. With over 650 placements, her songs have been featured in popular shows like *The Walking Dead*, *Pretty Little Liars*, and countless commercials. This aspect of her career not only allows her to create music on her terms but also provides a stable income.

Kerry describes how the holiday season is particularly exciting for her as many of her songs are featured in reruns of Christmas movies and shows. This consistent visibility keeps her work relevant and appreciated by both new and returning audiences.

The Songwriting Process

Kerry's songwriting process is both structured and fluid. She often begins with a concept or an idea that resonates with her. Sometimes she finds inspiration while driving or simply relaxing at home. Other times, she utilizes her home studio to experiment with melodies and lyrics.

When writing for specific projects, such as theme songs, Kerry reads through briefs provided by music supervisors. These briefs often include scene descriptions and sound references, guiding her in creating music that fits the desired mood and tone. This collaborative process is crucial in ensuring that her songs align with the vision of the show or film.

Economics of Licensing Music

A significant aspect of Kerry's success lies in her understanding of the economics of music licensing. She explains that licensing fees can vary widely depending on the project. For instance, trailers generally offer higher upfront fees compared to standard TV placements. However, TV shows often provide ongoing royalties, creating a steady income stream for artists.

Kerry’s ability to navigate these financial aspects has been vital in her career. She emphasizes the importance of owning her music and maintaining control over her creative output, which has allowed her to thrive without the constraints often associated with traditional record deals.

The Importance of Networking

Kerry attributes a significant part of her success to her networking efforts. Building relationships with music supervisors and industry professionals has opened numerous doors for her. She advises aspiring artists to be proactive, as waiting for opportunities to come to you is rarely effective in the competitive music landscape.

Her journey illustrates that success in music is not solely about talent; it also involves strategic networking and building a supportive community within the industry. Kerry's approach has enabled her to maintain a sustainable career while pursuing her passion for music.

Building a Roster of Artists

In recent years, Kerry has expanded her reach by working with other artists and bands. She has built a roster of approximately 200 musicians, helping them secure placements while also growing her own brand. This shift not only diversifies her income but also fosters a collaborative environment where creativity can flourish.

By representing emerging talent, Kerry is not only nurturing their careers but also enriching her own musical journey. This unique position allows her to explore different genres and styles, further enhancing her versatility as a songwriter.

Final Thoughts and Advice for Aspiring Musicians

Kerry's story is one of perseverance, adaptability, and success in the face of adversity. For those looking to break into the music industry, she offers this advice: "Don't get discouraged. Keep going, and don't let rejection stop you." Her journey serves as a reminder that every setback can lead to new opportunities.

As Kerry continues to create music and support other artists, her impact on the industry remains profound. Her story is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of following your passion, no matter the obstacles you may face.

For more about Kerry Kimmel and her music, you can visit her website and follow her on various platforms to stay updated on her latest projects and performances.