Exclusive Q&A: Demps Talks Debut Single, ‘Bitch On Wine,’ And Her Exciting New Career Path
Her debut single was co-written by Kelsea Ballerini, Nicolle Galyon and Jimmy Robbins.
Demps; Photo Provided
Demps, whose real name is Katie Dempsey, has become a sensation across social media for her bubbly personality and close connection to the Nashville music scene. Over the past few years, she has gained a large following online by showcasing snippets of her real life as a single mom in Music City, as well as promoting music from artists on the rise. Now, the influencer is stepping into a new chapter and putting her talent on display in her just-released debut single, “Bitch On Wine.”
On June 7, Demps dropped “Bitch On Wine” via Mailbox Money Records. The tune was written by an esteemed group of Nashville songwriters – Kelsea Ballerini, Nicolle Galyon, and Jimmy Robbins, who also produced the track.
The tune effortlessly matches Demps’ energy with its upbeat tempo and lighthearted narrative that celebrates her love for a good time. Her twang-fueled, addictive vocals soar through the honest lyrics as she hilariously illustrates the effects that different types of alcohol have on her.
“I’m a good time on tequila/ I’m a handful when I’m high/ I’m everybody’s best friend when I’m two shots in/ But I’m a bitch on wine,” she sings on the chorus.
While catching up with Country Now to discuss her first-ever song, Demps revealed that her passion for music runs deep into her childhood. Although she began singing at an early age, Demps never imagined her love for performing would get to this point. Releasing a song of her own has opened up a whole new set of doors that she is eager to tackle with the support of her artist friends and loyal fanbase.
In addition to sharing more about her new song, Demps also opened up about her musical inspirations, her first project in the works, her recently launched podcast named Get Cha Some, and more.
Keep reading to learn more in our exclusive Q&A below.
You’ve made a name for yourself as an influencer. When and why did you decide to pursue a singing career?
I always loved performing as a kid. Growing up I went to performing art school. I always sang. I played the violin and I danced.
When did you discover your voice?
I’ve always said on the internet, “If you wanna see me perform, find me down on Broadway at AJ’s.” I always love to sing though I never really thought I could make a dream out of it when I started social media. I always just promoted music because I knew what good music sounded like and I knew my audience would love this. I still promote music on all platforms.
What’s your first country music memory?
I have so many country memories, like always blasting Patsy Cline with my Nana, but I can honestly say in 2003 I fell in love with the song “Red Dirt Road” by Brooks & Dunn. I was so obsessed I even went and got the DVD music video and repeatedly listened to that album.
Who are some of your musical influences?
My musical influences are a little diverse. I grew up on some soul, my dad was definitely a rocker, and my mom was always stuck in the ‘80s Motown, the Rolling Stones, the list goes on. I can honestly say the biggest inspiration I had when it came to singing and performing is Whitney Houston, even if I can’t hit those high notes.
What was your reaction when you learned that you had the chance to work with Jimmy Robbins?
Being an influencer over the past four years, diving into the country music scene and promoting music, I’ve learned a lot about who is a big name around here. When it comes to songwriters to producers, I didn’t realize Jimmy Robbins was one of the big names. He’s produced some of the most amazing music that I love to this day. He is so much fun to work with, he made me feel so comfortable stepping in front of a microphone to record. I’m still shocked that all of this is happening
When did you first hear “Bitch On Wine” and what was your first thought when you heard the song?
I was sitting in the room with Sarah and Sophie who are a part of Money Mailbox Records, they pitched me the song and my mouth dropped. I thought, “if this isn’t an F you to all my haters.” I thought this song would be perfect to showcase as my debut single being an influencer. I always got judged for bringing my daughter to social events, going to social events alone and loving to drink socially…I couldn’t love the song more. It almost feels like it was written just for me.
What was your reaction to having the opportunity to cut a song written by Jimmy, Kelsea Ballerini and Nicolle Galyon?
I literally stared at Jimmy and I asked him, “are you sure Kelsea didn’t want this song?“ and he said she was gonna let me have it. I couldn’t believe it. Even to this day I still can’t believe it. I remember meeting Kelsea for the first time, it was at a CMT Music Video Awards after party. I was at the bar waiting on a drink and I just felt a hand touch my hand and I look over and it’s her. She tells me, “I just have to meet you.“ I want to say that she knows that “Bitch On Wine” is sung by me.
I know you spend quite a bit of time with Priscilla Block – has she offered you any advice?
I was a little nervous to tell my best friend about the opportunity I have and I don’t know why. I sat her down, and I showed her “Bitch On Wine” and the love and support she gave me was unreal. She’s definitely a real one she has told me so many tricks.
What does it mean to have support from Bunnie XO?
Bunnie has always been my hype girl, as I am her hype girl. She’s been with me for a while and she has seen some of the things I have gone through being on the Internet, etc…so I believe she just wants all happiness and success for everyone. It meant the world to me when she called me and said that she absolutely loves this song.
Do you have more new music on the way?
I am working on a sick song EP with the songwriters. I’m still in disbelief that I have the opportunity to work with these people. I cannot wait to showcase this project. Making music for women who have just been through the wringer and coming out on top and saying “F you” to all the haters.
Do you have plans to perform any live shows?
July 27 will be my first debut performance and I’m so excited. I’m gonna start announcing more soon.
Have you dabbled in songwriting? If so, will you ever release music that you’ve written?
I’ve always loved writing poems, so I think that could be a form of song-making. I’m thankful that I have friends to show me the path of songwriting and that I’ve had the opportunity to pick a lot of artists’ brains about how to write songs. So I’m definitely excited to create something truly my own.
You also have a new podcast – Get Cha Some – what can you tell us about the podcast and what do you hope people take away from it?
I hope people take away laughs and not to take anything so serious. This podcast is just to showcase Nashville and all the hotspots. So if you’re moving to Nashville not knowing anybody, this should give you confidence to get your boots on the ground, especially if you’re single in Nashville and trying to find the love of your life. We are not experts, but we can definitely give you advice from our past experiences.
Written by
Madeleine O’Connell
Madeleine O’Connell graduated from North Central College with a bachelors degree in Journalism and Broadcast Communications before deciding to pursue her studies further at DePaul University. There, she earned her masters degree in Digital Communication & Media Arts. O’Connell served as a freelance writer for over two years while also interning with the Academy of Country Music, SiriusXM and Circle Media and assisting with Amazon Music’s Country Heat Weekly podcast. In addition to Country Now, she has been published in American Songwriter, Music Mayhem, and Holler.Country. Madeleine O’Connell is a member of the Country Music Association and the Academy of Country Music.