Makenzie Phipps made a huge splash on the country music scene last year when she released her song “Maybe.” So much so that it’s propelled her career forward in many ways by opening the doors of opportunity ever since. Going into this year’s CMA Fest, we had the awesome chance to catch up with Makenzie and talk with her about her participation in this year’s Country for A Cause event and how the cause it benefits matters to her personally, her traditional country influences, her strong faith and its importance, and being a part of the Sunday Mornin’ Country event during this year’s CMA Fest as well.

(Interview by: Jeffrey Kurtis) 

https://makenziephippsmusic.com/

1) Tell us a little bit about the Country for A Cause show that you’re a part of during CMA Fest week on Wednesday June 8th. 

Country For A Cause is such an incredible event where people get to enjoy a night of country music with some of their favorite country artists while raising money for the Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt.

2) You mentioned that the show is benefitting the Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt. What does that cause mean to you personally?

I’ve lost a couple of friends to childhood illnesses. This cause is very near and dear to my heart. 

3) Have you ever done any other volunteer work with the children’s hospital? If so, what was your experience like with it?

I haven’t yet but this is something that I would definitely be interested in doing. Most of my volunteer work so far has been with animals and local shelters. 

4) With all the different events taking place during CMA Fest week, why is Country for A Cause an absolute must add show to any country music fans calendar?

Because you are not only getting to see some of your favorite country artists perform at such a wonderful location, but you are getting to help out such a worthy cause. You can’t ask for more in my opinion. 

5) If people aren’t going to be in town during CMA Fest week, is there still a way that they can donate to the cause online?

Absolutely! They can make checks out to: Country For A Cause and mail them to P.O. Box 1442, Hendersonville TN 37077.

6) Another show you’ll be participating in during CMA Fest week is ‘Sunday Mornin’ Country’ on Sunday June 12^th at the Opry House. What are you most looking forward to with this show?

Getting to see and hear some of the fantastic artists they have lined up that day! There are so many incredible performers. I’m so excited to be performing at this event. 

7) You’ve had incredible covers of “That Old Rugged Cross” and “Amazing Grace” go viral. How important is it to you that as you continue to make an impact on country music, that you also keep God front and center?

It’s very important! I’m here doing what I love to do because of Him. I wake up every day thanking God for what he has blessed me with. I wouldn’t be who I am today without Him. 

8) Speaking of covers you perform….there have also been plenty of covers from the classic, traditional country artists that have struck a good chord with your fans as well. Everyone from Johnny and June, to Patsy Cline, Loretta, Dolly, etc. How important are those country music icons to influencing you and your career today?

Very important to me. They are the foundation of country music. They’ve also made me the artist that I am today. I absolutely love the classic country sound.  It’s raw. I love that! 

9) Last year you released your debut single “Maybe.” Tell us a little bit about that. What emotions came with releasing your first song? Did it impact the way you wanted it to (or better)? Etc…

I was very excited to release my first country single. I had released other songs in the past but none of them were at the same standard as “Maybe”. Shane and I were just so overjoyed with the reaction we got from my friends (followers) on my social media pages. I couldn’t have asked for a better result.  

10) What is the best piece of advice that you can offer an aspiring songwriter/artist just trying to break into the music business?

Don’t ever be afraid of failure. I have gone through this career for so long and used to be afraid of failure so much that it would hold me back from taking that next step. It’s okay to fail, it’s only leading you to a stepping-stone further down the road.

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