Today we’d like to introduce you to Abigayle Kompst.
Hi Abigayle, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I grew up in Vegas surrounded by all things arts and music. My parents are both musicians. They put my brother and me in piano lessons and youth theater… we even went on the road a few times as a family production company for my mom’s one-woman show.
I started playing guitar at age 10 and fell in love with songwriting at age 16. For high school, I went to a performing arts magnet school where everyone who went there auditioned for a major. I ended up choosing guitar… it was a four-year classical program where we learned pieces and competed in local competitions. Sometimes we performed as a 32-piece classical guitar ensemble which sounds insane but it was very fun.
By the time I got to college, I was eager to study the music business and the craft of songwriting. I made the big move to Nashville, TN to attend Belmont University. I owe a lot to that school for helping me find a community of wonderful artists and writers that inspire me to get better and have fun!
Now I write for my artist project– an indie folk vibe. My debut EP “Vegas” is a collection of songs inspired by my hometown. I also write for other friends’ artist projects ranging in genres from country to indie pop and beyond. I even dabble in lo-fi beats and music for the film. Will collaborate on anything if good music and good people are involved!
In addition to writing, I’m playing more shows than I ever have this year! Sevier Park Fest, The Listening Room, 3rd and Lindsley, and songwriting festivals around the country. I have a killer band and we’ll be headed out on an east coast tour this fall.
Also gearing up to release a new project this fall 2023. “Recovering Optimist” is complete with seven songs co-produced with Chris Donlin. It’s my favorite collection of music to create yet. There may even be a few music videos, filmed by my brother and cinematographer extraordinaire Oliver Kompst!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Except for the pandemic, most of my obstacles are self-induced haha. Just the usual self-doubt and not knowing how to ask for help when I need it.
The music industry is a beast and you need a village to tackle it so I’m trying to remind myself to be brave and that I don’t need to have everything figured out before I ask other people to be on board.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
On stage, I’m known for my guitar amp that has googley eyes, wearing something cute and thrifted, and having a fun little time with my friends! People tell me I sound like Joni Mitchell + Norah Jones + Phoebe Bridgers.
In a writer’s room, I’m known for quirky, clever lyrics, infectious melodies, and silly jokes because writing should be fun!! I’m a sucker for wordplay. I’m known for helping artists say what they want to say in a way that feels natural to them.
I’m most proud when I’m bringing people together to also do what they’re passionate about– whether it’s being on stage with my friends or making a record, I love that songs bring people together.
Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
I can see indie labels and indie artists continuing to be able to make huge careers for themselves without the help of a major label.
With social media as such a powerful tool, there are more ways than ever to “make it” as an artist which is super empowering and exciting!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.abigaylekompst.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abigaylekompst/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AbigayleRoseKompst/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJvhSiLHzQ-7ZAl8-Q83ZGw
- Other: https://www.bandsintown.com/a/15514475-abigayle-kompst?came_from=250&utm_medium=web&utm_source=artist_event_page&utm_campaign=artist&_gl=1*psolvd*_ga*NDU1NjgwODk4LjE2NzQxNTE2MTk.*_ga_7VSQQ2WNWN*MTY4NDM0MjI5NS4yMC4wLjE2ODQzNDIyOTUuMC4wLjA.
Image Credits
Violet Teegardin, James Krauland, and Jonathan Summer