Kat Harlton
Photos: Jaylyn Todd
“Still Make Cowgirls“, the smoldering, unapologetic new single from award-nominated artist Karli June, was released on April 26th via The Orchard on all streaming platforms.
Penned by Karli and award winning songwriter Deric Ruttan (Blake Shelton, Eric Church, Dierks Bentley) and produced by Ruttan, “Still Makes Cowgirls” portrays a woman embracing her authentic self, proud of her rustic country roots and announcing to potential suitors that she’s got depth and passion. The lyrics depict a rustic scene with a sawdust floor, swingin’ doors, and a porch swing beneath the twinkling country stars, painting a picture of genuine rural life influenced by Karli’s rural upbringing. The mid tempo track starts with a slow burn and builds with Karli’s confident twang soaring over classic country elements like pedal steel guitar and B3 organ, but with modern pop-infused flair.
It was also recently announced that Karli June has scored four 2024 CMA Ontario Award nominations including nods for Songwriter(s) of the Year and Music Video of the Year for her single “Feel Like Home” as well as being nominated for Female Artist of the Year and Breakthrough Artist of the Year. Gavin Slate, the producer and co-writer of the single, also received a nomination for Record Producer of the Year.
These nominations are in response to Karli’s breakthrough single “Feel Like Home” featuring Ryan Langdon, which came out in 2023. The song achieved international success, reaching #12 on Australia’s CountryTown National Airplay charts, marking Karli’s highest-charting track yet. Domestically, “Feel Like Home” secured the #1 Most Added position at Canadian Country radio, peaked at #30 on the Mediabase National Country radio charts, and garnered recognition as iHeartRadio’s “Future Star”, Rogers Media’s “One to Watch”, and Stingray’s “Trending Track”. With the success of the track and her authentic sound and relatable lyrics, Karli has now surpassed over 2.2 million streams and video views of her songs.
Previously, Karli secured three 2023 CMA Ontario Award nominations for her debut EP Where You Come From, resulting in a win for the EP’s producer Karen Kosowski for Producer of the Year, plus gave an award show performance that brought the house down. Karli also had several performances during the Canadian Country Music Association Award week (CCMA’s) in Hamilton in September 2023 including the CCMA Songwriters Unplugged show.
Karli has shared the stage with artists including Terri Clark, The Washboard Union, Gord Bamford, Tebey, Brett Kissel, and Dierks Bentley, and has performed at festivals such as the SaskTel Saskatchewan Jazz Festival, Boots & Hearts, Oktoberfest, and Canadian Music Week. Previously, she was chosen to participate in the esteemed 2021 TD Incubator for Creative Entrepreneurship program and was one of three finalists representing Ontario in the nationwide 2021 Jim Beam Talent Search. Karli’s song “The List” won an Honorable Mention in the International Songwriting Competition 2022 out of over 15K submissions.
Looking ahead this year, Karli is set to unveil more new music ahead of her sophomore EP, slated for early 2025. She remains committed to expanding her presence in the Australian market while embarking on live performances across Canada. “Still Make Cowgirls” is sure to resonate with fans of authentic country music and anyone who embraces the cowgirl spirit.
I had the opportunity to chat with Karli about her musical journey, her new single and what’s next.
Kat: Can you talk about the inspiration behind your new single “Still Make Cowgirls”?
Karli: Yes! I was raised on a dairy farm and am very proud to be a girl from the country. I wanted a song that was an anthem for girls like me – and girls who just feel like country girls at heart.
Kat: What do you hope fans take from the song?
Karli: I hope it makes them feel extra proud to be who they are and celebrate that every time it comes on!
Kat: You were recently nominated for four 2024 CMA Ontario Awards, including Songwriter of the Year, Music Video of the Year, Female Artist of the Year and Breakthrough Artist of the Year. How does it feel to be nominated for these awards?
Karli: It’s a huge honor! I am especially grateful to be up for Female Artist this year as it’s my first time in that category! I love the CMAO family.
Karli: What do you find is the most challenging part of your creative process?
Karli: Being commercial enough for radio but also telling stories that are authentic and real to me. My music has to mean something!
Kat: What has been a career highlight for you so far?
Karli: Playing the CCMA Songwriters Series last September. I’ve went and watched this for years so to be on that stage was so special.
Kat: What have you learned along the way that you would like to share with other aspiring artists and creators?
Karli: Help your listeners understand who you are! Make your story crystal clear and have fun along the way because it’s a wild ride – but an amazing one!
Kat: What else can fans expect from you for the balance of 2024?
Karli: Some more new music!!! I’m so excited.
Connect With Karli
Instagram: @itskarlijune
Twitter: @karlijunemusic
Facebook: /karlijunemusic
Website: https://www.karlijune.com/