By Joey Amato
Nashville resident and out musician Adam Mac is definitely someone to keep on your radar. The performer from Russellville, Kentucky recently auditioned for the current season of American Idol and became an instant favorite of judge Katy Perry. While we don’t know the outcome yet, it will be interesting to watch Adam’s journey this season.
How long have you been performing?
I have been singing just about as long as I can remember. My earliest memories were singing in church, growing up in Russellville. I’ve been in Nashville 7 years now and have been grinding every day since I moved here!
Have you ever auditioned for Idol prior to this year?
Actually yes! I was on the show in 2012. I had just moved to Nashville, was very green and had NO IDEA who I was as an artist or even as a person. I got sent home 1st round of Hollywood week. Hoping to get a little further this go around.
What was the most stressful part of the audition process?
Getting enough rest! I was so anxious the night before I hardly slept a wink! And then when we got to the audition (in New York City) it was 30 degrees outside and I was terrified I was going to lose my voice. Luckily it went pretty well!
Who was your favorite judge and why?
I think they all have something about them that makes them great for the show, and great as mentors. But for me Katy really got me. I think she sensed that I was a total weirdo and really had fun with it. I mean we literally did a death drop together…. I was lying on the ground… NEXT TO KATY PERRY. Goodbye.
Did they give you any advice/critiques?
I think they could tell that meeting them for the first time was a lot for me to take in. I was on a 10 and the best advice they gave me was to just breathe, but Katy told me that she wanted to make me her “big gay rhinestone cowboy” so you can imagine how breathing was difficult.
Who are some of your musical influences?
I was raised on so many different styles of music from Michael Jackson to Shania Twain. I really gain a lot of inspiration from folks like Chris Stapleton, Willie Nelson and Amy Winehouse. (Random I know.)
Has living in Nashville helped craft your musical style and performing abilities?
It’s made all the difference in the world. It’s helped me craft my songwriting, my stage presence, my vocals, really everything I’ve learned has been because of the amazing people I’ve been fortunate enough to cross paths with along the way here in Nashville.
What do you plan to achieve musically in the next 12 months?
Well…we will have to stay tuned for what Idol holds. But I will certainly be releasing new music. I’ve already been recording my next project which I’m really excited about. I haven’t released new music in a few years and what I’m working on is definitely a more mature version of Adam Mac that I’m really excited to share with the world!
Nashville Favorites: Preds games, patios/rooftops with friends, THE MUSIC
Restaurant: The Southern
Honky Tonk: Does Lipstick Lounge count? If not, it should.
Songwriter: Shane McAnally no contest.
Boutique: Starstruck Vintage OBVIIIII
Neighborhood: I spend most my time in East, but I live in Wedgewood-Houston and love it over there!!
