Q+A: Country singer-songwriter Stephanie Quayle talks ‘Drinking With Dolly,’ Montana and songwriting
When I received an email pitch about country singer-songwriter Stephanie Quayle, two things really jumped out: Her latest single is titled “Drinking With Dolly,” and Quayle was born in Bozeman, Montana.
During our Q+A, we learned that we both love Dolly Parton, and we were sidetracked talking about growing up in Montana. Twenty minutes later, I became a new fan of the talented, energetic and sweet up-and-coming artist.
“If there is one person, one idol for me, it’s Miss Dolly. I love every aspect of her as an artist, actor and entertainer and how she just loves people,” Quayle said. “She is super-charged lightning in a bottle, and I strive to be like her.”
Quayle, 25, headlines Stoney’s Rockin’ Country at Town Square on Friday night, and she answered questions over the phone Jan. 25 ahead of her concert:
In doing my research before our interview, I read that you were born and raised in Bozeman, Montana. I grew up in Helena from ages 2 to 18. Tell me about growing up in Montana.
Really? That’s amazing and awesome, another Montanan! I was born and raised in Bozeman, actually on a farm 15 minutes outside Bozeman. We had buffalo, cattle and chicken. It was definitely a unique way to grow up. I am a country girl and listened to country music from Mom, while Dad was a rock and roll guy. Their music influenced me.
How long have you lived in Nashville, and what do you miss about Montana?
I’ve lived in Nashville for six years now, but I still have a place in Montana. There is nothing like the mountains in Montana and my horses and of course my family. The Rocky Mountains — there is nothing like it, but you know that growing up in Helena!
How did you get your start in country music?
I grew up listening to it. It influenced my voice and music — three chords and the truth. I studied in Switzerland — my way of running away legally (laughs) — junior year in high school. I auditioned for a band after school named Scotch and Soda.
When I was fronting this band and performing and writing, that’s when I knew that this would be my life. There was no other choice. I still have the Scotch and Soda CD cover on my piano. It represents where I was, where I was going and where I am. It was a wonderful, defining moment. From Montana, I moved to the West Coast, then Nashville. Now I’m all in all the time.
What can fans expect in your set at Stoney’s Rockin’ Country on Friday, Feb. 3?
I can’t wait! High energy. There is nothing mellow about our show. You can be introspective, but expect to dance, sing along and have a great time. What I love about performing is that it’s about all of us. I’m just a part of the show. It’s an incredible relationship during a live show to have that connection with the crowd.
What are you working on now, perhaps new music, along with the concert dates?
I am three-fourths done with a new album and hope to release it this summer. I am out writing my best songs. That’s my goal, the best, favorite and most delicious songs. The album is taking shape.
It’s about heartbreak, before love, being in love and a ton of fun. I’m really excited about the music. I go to all places, and there is something for everyone. My thought process is, “How can I touch someone in some way on all cylinders?”
Who were your music idols growing up, and who are you listening to nowadays?
I listened to AM country stations growing up, so Merle Haggard, Willie Nelson and Dolly Parton to more current artists like The Judds, Reba McEntire, Trisha Yearwood, Faith Hill and Shania Twain. Shania and Faith blow my mind — so does Martina McBride.
Growing up listening to Garth Brooks, I didn’t know how phenomenal of an entertainer and human being he is. I like to investigate artists now and learn about them to the core.
Your latest single is “Drinking With Dolly.” Have you ever met Dolly Parton or seen her in concert?
If there is one person, one idol for me, it’s Miss Dolly. I love every aspect of her as an artist, actor and entertainer and how she just loves people. She is super-charged lightning in a bottle, and I strive to be like her.
I’ve seen her in concert a bunch of times but have never met her. She has heard the song. I was at the Atlanta airport, and my manager called me and said, “Dolly has heard the song.” Imagine this little girl growing up in Montana on a farm using a rake for a microphone to be told this.
It’s been a mind-blowing year, 2016, and 2017 is shaping up to be one, as well. Dolly wrote … actually typed me a letter about the song. It was incredible!
Tell me one thing your fans would be surprised to learn about you.
(Pauses) that’s a great question! I’m a homebody. I love the stage and my fans, but when I’m not doing that, I’m a homebody. I stay put, and I love that — hanging out with my dog making food in the kitchen.
Actually, I have another one that’s better. I was a page, an intern, in the Legislature in Helena. My dad was in the Legislature. I got the politicians their Cokes. That trumps being a homebody!
What are you resolutions and goals for the New Year?
There are some crossovers from last year (laughs). Working out because health is No. 1 for all intents and purposes, the touring and traveling and extraordinary opportunities. Health is No. 1. And to write more songs — that’s the second No. 1.
Every day, I’m taking the time to write, carving out that time because there is no other option. And I think just being present and focused on the now. The future comes quickly, so you have to squeeze the juice from every moment.
How often do you get to Las Vegas, and is there anything on your to do list while you’re in town?
I was last in town for National Finals Rodeo two months ago. I have never done a tour of Las Vegas … Old Vegas. I would love to do that!
Stephanie Quayle headlines Stoney’s Rockin’ Country at Town Square on Friday night.
