Artist Spotlight: Lilly Hiatt

Courtesy of Gregg Roth

The Appalachian Preservation Project is proud to present Lilly Hiatt as this week’s artist spotlight.

Tell me about your background. Who are you at your core? Why did you become a musician?

I was born in LA and moved to Nashville when I was 1. I kinda just felt like I was born a musician. I didn't start playing til I was about 12 on guitar, but I was always messing with keyboards and singing before that around our house, quietly. I'm a nature lover, animal lover, people lover. :)

How long have you been recording/gigging?

Since I was 20, so 19 years.

Why did you begin pursuing professional music?

Because I wanted to make a living doing what I love, and have that be what I put my efforts into. Love being around musical folks.

What is the most challenging part of recording/gigging? The most rewarding part?

Most challenging part is missing your family when you are on the road, and it's hard to strike a routine out there, but it is possible to be healthy if ya really try! In terms of recording, it used to be paying for it, but since we made our last record at home, it is now just pure joy. I love getting in any studio of any kind.

What artists inspire your songwriting the most?

Eddie Vedder, Jenny Lewis, Lauryn Hill, Bob Dylan, Taj Mahal, Elliot Smith

What life experiences inform your music?

It all goes into the songs. Literally everything haha for better or worse.

How do you hope your music impacts people?

I just hope people can feel happy when they hear it, or understood maybe.

What has been the most personally impactful moment in your career so far?

Weird to say, but 2020. Changed the way I saw everything and set some priorities straight in my life. I realized that it was the good stuff at home that was feeding the tunes.

Who or what inspires you most?

My family and my pets and other awesome musicians. Getting outside! And Eddie Vedder.