West Virginia native Makenzie Phipps has been making her way through the country music scene. We sat down with the 21-year-old singer in Nashville to discuss her debut single, her background, and how she helps adoptable animals.
“Maybe”
If you haven’t heard Phipps’ debut single “Maybe,” be sure to listen to it below. The entire song drew us in, from the lyrics to the melody. The Josie Awards named it “Female Song of the Year” last year and it was well-deserved. “It was an amazing feeling,” she said of the accolade.
Attending the awards show for the second time, this was the first year she was nominated, which is a great accomplishment, since it’s a global show. “Being nominated, that is just an accomplishment in itself,” she remarked.
Phipps added, “Getting to meet all of these talented songwriters and singers from everywhere, it’s just an amazing experience.” She noted that although winning is a fantastic experience, she always tries to stay humble and kind. “We could not believe it, we’re so happy with how it came out and we’re so glad that it was enough to win the award.”
Starting Out
Phipps started singing at just four years old at church with her grandmother. At home, she had a pink Cinderella boombox kit and Loretta Lynn’s cd was the only one she owned at the time. She’d run around the house singing her songs. “I just love her so much,” she said.
She began piano lessons at ten and went on to attend a music school in West Virginia when she was a teenager. After receiving her first guitar at fourteen, she began performing.
Phipps explained that she took what she learned in music school and made it work for her. The guidance they provided talked about the advantages of not consuming dairy an hour before singing and refraining from eating 1-2 hours before performing.
She attempted to take both pieces of advice, but ended up fainting while performing at a baseball stadium when it was really hot out. Now she takes her health more into consideration and prioritizes her needs in that area.
Promoting Adoptable Animals
Another aspect of Phipps’ story that stood out is her love for animals. Every week, she features a “Take Me Home Thursday” segment on social media where she features an adoptable dog. Each dog is selected for a particular reason, either she’s worked with him in training or perhaps they’ve been there much longer than the others.
With her busy schedule, this was the perfect way to get involved. She’s excited to continue the initiative and said, “Putting it on my platform and being able to share with my audience, my passion and love that I have for animals, I think it’s really made a difference.”
Connect with Makenzie Phipps
Phipps continues to tour with dates set through June. For more information, visit https://makenziephippsmusic.com/.
