Canadian singer-songwriter Katie Dauson has dropped her latest single ‘That Volcano’. Channelling parrots, perseverance, and pure fire in an empowering rock anthem, we caught up with Katie Dauson to discuss all things ‘That Volcano’.
If “That Volcano” were the theme song to a movie about your life, what kind of movie would it be?
I can’t categorize my life as a single movie genre. My life has had a lot of ups and downs, as well as twists and turns. There are some moments where it feels like I’m living in a tragedy, and others where the movie could be a big budget superhero movie with a happy ending. Sometimes my life can be a comedy too.
What’s the most surprising or unexpected part of the song’s backstory that fans might not know?
The song is not really about a parrot, even if that’s the allegory.
What’s your go-to beach or summer drink — and would you sip it while listening to this song?
My go-to summer drink is an extra spicy Bloody Caesar; it’s the national drink of Canada, and can be an acquired taste to some, but I love it. And yes, I would sip it while listening to my song.
If you could perform “That Volcano” anywhere in the world, where would it be — and why?
I would love to perform That Volcano at Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville Hotel in Orlando, Florida because his music helped inspire me to write this song.
You drew inspiration from Jimmy Buffett’s parrot-covered album art. Do you collect vinyl or have any favourite records in your collection?
Yes, I collect vinyl records and have a rather large collection at home. I have two albums in particular that are my favourites, that my Dad purchased when they originally released: An Evening with John Denver (it’s a live album), as well as Eve by the Alan Parsons Project. I enjoy all the albums I own, but those two really stand out to me. With the John Denver album, he makes you feel like you’re at the concert back in 1974, sitting in the Universal Amphitheatre in Los Angeles. I love how John Denver addresses the audience, and the music is unbelievable. Besides, he always seems to sound better in a live recording. As for Eve, when I listen to it, it feels like the whole album is a stage play. And I can’t get enough of the opening song, Lucifer. The way the music and volume slowly builds in that song is like nothing else and very dramatic. I’ve listened to both albums quite a bit. There are other albums that I thoroughly enjoy, from AC/DC to ZZ Top and everything in between. I even listen to Jazz, and Classical music.
If “That Volcano” had a signature emoji, what would it be?
It would be a person with a triumphant look on their face, because they overcame some major obstacles.
The video is animated — if you could step into that animated world for a day, what would you do?
If I could step into that animated world for a day, I would visit the fictional venue, The Cage in Toronto, and play a set there. I look like I’m having fun playing there in the video, so why not try it?
What’s one lyric from “That Volcano” that means the most to you?
This one is easy: “I can’t wait to see the look on your face when I soar through the air and outta this place.” I feel like this lyric is extremely empowering, and says to naysayers that I will succeed, despite what they think.
Fans love your unique blend of humour and depth — what’s one fun fact about you that reflects that balance?
I can’t ride a bicycle; I fall off. In spite of that, I’m really no different than anyone else.
What three words would you use to describe “That Volcano” to someone who’s never heard your music?
Hopeful. Empowering. Vibrant.
