An Interview with Cougar Beatrice
In the dynamic world of music, it’s a rare delight to discover a band that not only embraces eclecticism but also infuses it with raw energy and boundless creativity. Today, we’re thrilled to bring you an interview with Cougar Beatrice, an indie rock sensation hailing from Virginia. Known for their spirited live performances and a refusal to be boxed into any single genre, Cougar Beatrice is more than just a band; they’re a musical odyssey. With a journey that began in the fall of 2018, they’ve quickly risen through the ranks, captivating audiences with their unique blend of sounds and styles. Let’s dive into their world to understand their inspirations, challenges, and more.
Hey, thanks for chatting with us. Tell us a little about yourself.
We are a high-energy eclectic indie rock band from Virginia. We try not to limit ourselves whatsoever when it comes to ideas, sounds, instruments, arrangements, archetypes…. We give everything we have to our live performances. The people deserve it.
We formed in the fall of 2018. Three of the four of us had only been playing instruments for a year or two at most. We started with covers, then thought “we should try writing a few, why not?” And so we have and will continue to do so, never looking back. Everything that has happened and will happen along the way is nothing short of a blessing, and we are eternally grateful that our tapestries in this limitless universe include the beauty of music.
Who or what inspired you to start making music? And, when did you start?
Our biggest influences starting out as a group were the Strokes and the Red Hot Chili Peppers. But we’ve since expanded our sounds to include other areas of our tastes, such as the Beach Boys, EDM music, polka, bluegrass, jazz, etc. Nothing is off-limits for us. We think most people may surprise themselves with things that they’d like if they’d ever just give them a chance. But if you never look, you’ll never know. We feel responsible for helping them look.
What is your biggest challenge as an independent band?
Being confident enough in a strategy of rolling out content and creating offers to nurture existing fans.
What is your favorite project or single you have released?
Probably “Yours or Mine?” as it’s something that really only we would ever make.
Who are your inspirations? What artists or bands are you listening to?
Changes all the time. Right now I’m listening to a lot of the Kings Of Leon’s first two albums because they’re incredible. But also getting back into gypsy jazz guitar so listening to a lot of Joscho Stephan. Who knows what it could be a month from now?
What’s the process behind working on a song like?
Usually a melody or a chord progression, then followed by arrangement/words last. Some of us are more perfectionists than others and need a lot of time before bringing an idea to everyone else, others just go straight in.
Tell me about your upcoming music and what inspired you to create it!
We’re working on releasing an EP of five songs, one of them already released as a single. We still have so much to say. Can’t leave it all unsaid. New sounds, new instruments, new ideas, new emotions, all of it.
What are your plans for 2024?
Take this thing as high as we possibly can!
Have any shoutouts?
Shoutout to Charlottesville, our families, Virginia Farm Bureau car insurance, Domino’s Pan Am, and everyone who’s been there with us on the journey, wherever you’re at.
As our conversation with Cougar Beatrice comes to a close, it’s evident that this band is not just another drop in the ocean of music; they are a wave creating their own sea. From their humble beginnings to their ambitious plans for 2024, Cougar Beatrice embodies the spirit of evolution and exploration in music. Their upcoming EP and their passion for pushing boundaries promise an exciting future for both the band and their fans. As they continue to chart their course in the limitless universe of music, it’s clear that their tapestry is one woven with dedication, creativity, and an undying love for their art. Tune in on Spotify or wherever you listen to music.