BIOGRAPHY

Boston native Kat Chapman taught herself to play guitar and made her way into songwriting at the age of 18. In the early ’90s, she made her first demo tape in a bedroom with a friend and a 4-track recorder. In the primarily male-dominated Boston music scene, she emerged as a guitar- playing lead singer. She cut her still under- age teeth by performing on notorious stages like The Rathskellar, MaMa Kin, The Kendall Café, The Middle East, among others. Kat went solo under the given name “Katrin,” and even busked on the streets of Harvard Square and Faneuil Hall. Recogniz- ing her talent, friend and engineer Mark Dailey helped her record and produce her first two CDs.

Her street performing hustle took her to the Edinburgh Festival in Scotland and earned her accolades at the Mountain Stage Newsong Festival, Solarfest, Falcon Ridge Folk Festival and many more. And she was also invited to open for international greats such as Boz Scaggs, John Mayall, Joan Armatrading, and Chris Isaac.

Throughout her artistic career, Kat has created four full-length independent releases and two EP’s. She collaborated with renowned drummer Jerry Marotta (known for his work with Peter Gabriel, Hall & Oates, Indigo Girls, and Sheryl Crowe) on her CD “Frail to Fearless,” featuring Tony Levin on bass, Jerry Marotta on drums, and the legendary John Sebastian as a special guest.

Kat embarked on a successful 23 date European tour through Switzerland, France, and Italy. She also created some stunning music videos including a full production style video of the single “Far Away” produced by Eric Moyer (American Chopper). Watch the “Far Away” video here.

During the pandemic shutdown, Kat Chapman found solace in her music room and began recording. Much like her early demo tape days, she had only simple means to craft out acoustically soulful songs she calls “Purple Tree” and “Meadow.”

Kat shared the inspiration for “Purple Tree” saying, “I have been awed and inspired by my own experience of finding my way toward happiness, fulfillment, and deep respect for the earth. The line, “All good things are wild and free” comes from the writings of Henry David Thoreau. “Why not let them be” is my echo to his sentiment. I live in his backyard. It is because of this early movement toward conservationism that I can still experience the gift of nature all around me.”

For her latest work, Kat enlisted the help of her bandmate and co-producer Chris Leadbetter, as well as engineer and associate producer Drew Guido, who skillfully mixed Kat, Chris, and additional instrumental tracks, while working remotely. Jerry Marotta, with his signature percussion adds depth to the track “Purple Tree.” The earthy and rich acoustic guitars give Kat’s dynamic voice the space it commands.

The track “Meadow” is backed by a lush tapestry of string arrangements thanks to the contributions of Cellist, Casey Murray, Aled Roberts on violin/viola and Paul Chase on upright bass.

Kat reflected on the inspiration behind the song, saying “The pace of life during the pandemic sent me into nature and it was very healing. I remember starting this song when I was still living in the city.” When we moved to the country, I felt embraced and comforted by the quiet.” The last line in the song’s chorus says it perfectly: “Empty spaces teach their graces and welcome me back home.”

Kat Chapman plans to release her EP in early 2024, featuring preview tracks “Purple Tree” and “Meadow” along with an additional array of tracks that remain stripped down, yet flourish within the lis- teners’ experience.

“All good things are wild and free”
- Henry David Thoreau
“Why not let them be?”
- Kat Chapman
“Won’t you come disappear with me and climb our purple tree . . .”

Check out Kat's schedule for live performances and more!