By: Kat Harlton
https://www.martinkerrmusic.com
Via Martin Kerr’s website:
Building his career from the streets, one passer-by at a time, Martin Kerr has been able to make a living as an independent musician for the last 10 years. Kerr is no stranger to taking his guitar, along with his busking amp, and setting up his CD store anywhere he could gather an audience. “To connect with people who left the house that morning not expecting to hear live music in the street, for a song to stop them in their tracks on their way get groceries or run to the bank, is a really special thing.” says Kerr. It has been these connections that have enabled him to build a fan base of loyal supporters who he refers to as more of a family.
With their support he has been able to achieve things usually out of reach for an independent musician – such as selling out 2 nights at the 1700-seat Winspear Centre, and landing his latest album in the Canadian top 10.
Often compared to James Taylor and more recently Ed Sheeran (although that might have more to do with his ginger hair and charming English accent) Kerr’s storytelling is guaranteed to cover the whole spectrum of emotions. His powerful voice and intricate songwriting has earned him praise from the likes of Sarah McLachlan and Bruce Cockburn. “You have to make people laugh before you have a licence to make them cry. To see people experience such a range of feelings with me at my live shows is my favourite thing about being a musician. There’s something beautiful about sharing both happiness and sadness and then happiness again with a stranger.” Kerr explains. “I always try to send people home with a happy heart”
We caught up with Martin to discuss his favorite Christmas gift as a child, the holiday treat he can’t live without and his favorite holiday movie.
Kat: Do you have a favorite holiday or Christmas memory?
Martin: Visiting my granny Cath at her B&B in Scotland. It was a 9-hour drive to get there but worth every minute. She was the best.
Kat: What was your favorite gift you received as a kid?
Martin: When I was 5 my granny got me a huge transformer – a robot / car transporter. I played with that for years until it fell apart.
Kat: Favorite holiday movie?
Martin: Love Actually! I’m a sucker for British rom-coms starring Hugh Grant. The bit where the little ginger boy runs through the airport to tell his true love how he feels is the best.
Kat: Favorite holiday song?
Martin: Nothing beats the old hymns at a proper Carol service on Christmas Eve. I love Once in Royal David’s City and In the Bleak Midwinter.
Kat: Favorite holiday treat?
Martin: Hmm, trifle for me please! I’ll skip the Christmas pudding, but have an extra helping of granny’s trifle.
For more on Martin Kerr visit: https://www.martinkerrmusic.com