At just 19 years old, Nashville-based singer, songwriter, and guitarist Kaitlyn Croker has already achieved milestones that many artists only dream of. Her rapid ascent in the country music scene is a testament to her exceptional talent and dedication. In 2024 alone, Kaitlyn opened for country superstar Cole Swindell in Maryland, shared the stage with Linda Perry of 4 Non Blondes fame in Nashville, and engaged with fans at the renowned CMA Fest. She also showcased her songwriting prowess at festivals like Lake Martin in Alabama and Pensacola Beach in Florida, and performed multiple times at Camp Southern Ground in Georgia, a facility founded by Zac Brown.
Building on this momentum, Kaitlyn is set to release her new single, “Trouble I Chase,” on March 28, 2025. This high-energy summer anthem reflects her dynamic style and ability to connect with audiences. In anticipation of her upcoming release, we had the opportunity to sit down with Kaitlyn to discuss her journey, inspirations, and what’s next for this rising star.
Exposed Vocals: Your career has been moving at an incredible pace—what do you think has been the key to your early success?
Kaitlyn: Like anything else, staying grounded amidst all that’s going on around you is the key to moving forward. Keeping up with my core group of musician friends, relying on my team for advice, and remaining disciplined in my morals has never steered me wrong! (Of course, I’m always looking up for advice.)
Exposed Vocals: You’ve shared the stage with major artists like Cole Swindell and performed at events featuring legends like Linda Perry. What were those experiences like, and what did you take away from them?
Kaitlyn: I am so thankful for each and every show I play. With Cole Swindell and Linda Perry, I had the opportunity to play my songs to a wider-scale audience. Both of these experiences were so exciting for me, but I also didn’t have much time to prepare for either one, so it was necessary to lean on friends and help share the workload in pulling it off! (It was an incredible and humbling experience.)
Exposed Vocals: Opening for a big name can be both exciting and intimidating. Do you have any pre-show rituals or mindset tricks that help you prepare for performances on such big stages?
Kaitlyn: I don’t do anything too crazy. I like to make sure I have something in my stomach about an hour before, as well as staying well hydrated. Sometimes I’ll sip on some tea backstage, but I can almost guarantee I am using my VocalMist (a nebulizer). Lastly, my favorite ritual is praying right before walking on stage. Typically, it’s just myself and my parents, but for the Cole Swindell show, we had a huge circle of support!
Exposed Vocals: You performed at Camp Southern Ground, founded by Zac Brown. How did that opportunity come about, and what was it like to be part of such a special place?
Kaitlyn: My publicist had a connection with Camp Southern Ground and introduced me to all that they do. I was so eager to see for myself the incredible facilities and atmosphere that they pride themselves on. The most special part of it all—other than the breathtaking grounds—is the people. The Camp Southern Ground staff are easily my favorite people to work with.
Exposed Vocals: The Nashville music scene is incredibly competitive. How do you set yourself apart as an artist, both in your songwriting and performances?
Kaitlyn: It is incredibly competitive but in a friendly way. Sure, there are exceptions, but overall, I’ve met some of the most incredible people who I’m honored to play alongside with. But as an artist, it’s so important to be as original as you possibly can and stay true to yourself. In a city where you are bombarded by all different styles of music, setting out to be unique is what people attach to and appreciate. (I feel like if you are competing with others, you’re doing it wrong. We believe in a team approach. I’m genuinely rooting for the person on stage next to me. I believe a win for one is a win for all of us.)
Exposed Vocals: You have a new single coming out this month—can you give us a sneak peek into the inspiration behind it and what fans can expect?
Kaitlyn: Fans can expect a fun, dynamic, high-energy summer song. The title is “Trouble I Chase,” releasing March 28th. Ironically, I’m often teased for being the “good girl,” even “boring,” but I believe we all have different “trouble” or “vices.” For me, it’s chocolate! My co-writers brought different perspectives. Sometimes you’re the voice for the masses, but essentially, it’s about chasing the excitement of things you know you shouldn’t. It’s definitely a windows-down, summer-fun song! “Trouble I Chase” has a lot of what my team calls “ear candy”—prevalent drums, melody changes, and fun harmonies. This was produced by We The People. Jason Wyatt and the team crushed it!! Can’t wait for the world to hear this song!
Exposed Vocals: Looking back at all the major festivals and venues you’ve played, is there one performance that stands out as a defining moment in your career so far?
Kaitlyn: Although I don’t get to share this often, there is one opportunity that I go back to when asked this question: the Nashville VA hospital. It was an absolute honor to team up with Musicians On Call to bring music into the rooms of patients. Yes, I was there to bring music to people, but the veterans left a lasting impact on me.
Exposed Vocals: Songwriting is at the core of country music. What’s your process like when crafting a song, and do you have a favorite song you’ve written?
Kaitlyn: I don’t have a set process when writing a song, although it’s likely that I’ll have an idea or concept written down in my phone. I think about who I’d like to collaborate with and set up a writing session where we’ll explore every opportunity and angle the song can go. The best feeling in the world is seeing an idea come to life before your eyes.
Exposed Vocals: Many up-and-coming artists dream of achieving what you have so early on. What advice would you give to someone just starting their music journey?
Kaitlyn: This career path is not for the faint of heart. My advice to someone starting out is make sure this is your passion and that you have a support system. In my opinion, hard work and encouragement is the key to success.
Exposed Vocals: With so much momentum behind you, what’s next for Kaitlyn Croker in 2025? Any dream collaborations or goals you’re hoping to accomplish?
Kaitlyn: Next up, I’m excited to be singing the National Anthem, along with original songs, at Trump Doral in Miami for the Truth Seekers Conference. Directly following that performance, I’ll be making my way to play in the Key West Songwriters Festival. I’m also going to be opening some shows for Brett Westgrove this year.
Links: https://kaitlyncroker.com/
