Atlanta, GA raised Kelly McFarling and gave her space to find her powerful voice in its church choirs and baseball stadiums, but it was San Francisco that gave her the encouragement and community to solidify her original sound. She has spent the past three years selling out shows in both her hometown and her adopted city (and many cities in-between) – a testament to the fact that her fresh spin on old-time music is resonant in any environment.
We caught up with the grand prize winner of the 35th bi-annual Shoot-Out at Eddie’s Attic before her grand return to the Decatur, GA venue this Saturday, April 27. Check out Kelly’s responses to our 5GB interview questions!
What’s the first gig you ever attended?
I remember going to see Outkast and Lauren Hill at the Fox Theatre in Atlanta in high school. I’m not sure it was the first. If I did go see other shows before this one, they were erased from my memory because of how awesome this one was.
What is the best gig that you ever performed?
It was really fun to win the Eddie’s Attic Open Mic Shootout.
What is the best gig you have ever seen?
This is a really tough question. I think it’s impossible to chose one, but I’ll give you my favorite recent show. I saw Father John Misty play this year at the Filmore in San Francisco and was blown away. I always freak out about seeing Gillian Welch and Dave Rawlins. I’ve seen them many times, and every time I leave completely inspired and amazed.
Gig you would most like to play?
Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival in San Francisco.
What would be the lineup for your dream gig?
I love to play on a bill with Shovels and Rope and Father John Misty. Those two are the best live shows I’ve seen this year, and they are currently blowing people’s minds and hearts.
Check out Kelly McFarling playing at Eddie’s Attic THIS Saturday, April 27!
