Our Exclusive Chat with Camryn Quinlan

Camryn Quinlan is a member of Acapop! KIDS, a youth acapella group created by the founding members of Pentatonix. Now, the teen singer/songwriter is releasing music of her own and we got the chance to speak with her on it all.

You were born and raised in NY. Did you ever consider a career on Broadway?
Yes! When I was younger I saw Annie on Broadway and I loved the idea of performing on stage. I begged my mom to sign me up for theater classes and was in many plays for about 3-4 years. I even had the chance to audition for Matilda on Broadway! That was a lot of fun.

What was your audition process like to become an Acapop! KID?
The first round I submitted a video of a song I liked. The second round I had to sing “The Middle” by Maren Morris and Zedd, and harmonizing parts. The last round was in-person in NYC in front of the producers including Scott Hoying. I sang “Candlelight” by Zhavia and some harmonizing pieces. Then we had to learn a dance routine with the entire group of kids. It was an amazing experience, especially meeting Scott Hoying!

Is there a song you are dying to cover with the group?
Yes! “Can’t Take My Eyes Off Of You” but Lauryn Hill’s version. I am a huge fan of her music and style.

When did you start writing music?
I started writing music when I was 6 years old. Recently I found old voice memos on my phone and some of the songs were hilarious. I couldn’t stop laughing when I heard myself. My first serious song I wrote when I was 8.

Do you have a set songwriting structure?
I have a couple of different ways I write a song. Sometimes I write a melody or the chords first and then the lyrics, but sometimes I start with a concept and write off of the first word that pops into my head. But mostly I just start with chords and a melody, then sing lyrics after I think of the melody.

Why is mental health so important to you?
Mental health is important to me because I have struggled with bad anxiety and I think a lot of people have to go through their day with worry/depression and other disorders. I think that it is important for people to feel comfortable to get help and not feel embarrassed or ashamed.

What’s next?
I am always working on new songs and working on recording music for future releasing. I can’t wait to share new music with my fans.

Any movie, book or music suggestions while we’re still in quarantine?
My favorite quarantine movies are scary ones. I recently saw IT and The Invisible Man and loved them both. Two of my favorite books are The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas and Walk Two Moons by Sharon Creech. I love listening to Ariana Grande, Tyler The Creator, Kacey Musgraves, Bazzi, Post Malone and Maren Morris just to name a few.