As seen in Guitar Girl Magazine Issue 21 – Fall 2022
The Voice alums Taryn Papa is a starlet on the rise in country music. Blending the sounds of ‘90s female country and today’s contemporary country, Papa has created an addicting sonic quality that has her audience captivated. Papa has been seen performing as the National Anthem singer for NHL and NASCAR events and made her mark on Nashville’s Broadway strip.
She released her EP Awake after her success with Team Blake on NBC’s The Voice. Recently, Taryn Papa had an Instagram reel go viral, which obtained over 18 million views. With sultry, seamless vocal delivery and enlightening songwriting skill, Taryn Papa is one to watch in Nashville’s female country music scene.
Your single, “Persuaded,” is a re-release and is available now. I’m so excited for you. Can you tell us about the new single?
“Persuaded” is the first song I wrote, recorded, and released when I moved to Nashville. At the time, it was the most honest thing I had ever made, and as a female artist in 2013, an impossible narrative to get others on board about. With the way women have been fearlessly crushing country radio the past few years, it felt like the perfect time to re-invent the song, re-release it, and get it back out there! I am excited to see how it does!
You went viral on Instagram, and the reel has over 18M views. What was your reaction?
My notifications almost broke my phone — it was the most exciting thing ever!!! I would log in to Instagram every 30 minutes and text my best friend “ANOTHER MILLION”!! I can’t wait for it to happen again!
We are Guitar Girl, so we’re interested to hear about guitars; which guitar is your favorite to play?
I have two favorites! I have a Blueridge Contemporary Series that I added a pickup in to play live! It has this gorgeous abalone detail up the neck, and it sounds like a dream. My other favorite is my Taylor GS Mini-e Koa! It is so easy to travel with and comfortable to play on any stage!
What has your experience being a woman in the music industry been like for you?
It’s definitely not rainbows and unicorns, but it doesn’t have to be. I love waking up and pushing boundaries, fighting for a chance to be heard, and proving that I deserve to be. There’s nothing better than hearing “No” and using it as motivation.
What do you want your audience to take away from your last singles, “Changed “ and “Can’t Catch My Heart”?
To follow their hearts and be unapologetically themselves. Go all in, and don’t be afraid of falling in love because it’s AMAZING!
You were on Team Blake on The Voice; tell us more about that journey.
My time on The Voice, Season 19, was during the height of COVID 19. It was an extremely hard time to be away from family and friends and experience so many unknowns with the world and my future as a contestant. After my blind audition, I told myself that there IS nothing I can’t do. For that, I am forever grateful.
You’re about to go on tour; what are you most looking forward to when you hit the road?
I can’t wait to meet my fans! During my time on The Voice, I loved watching my social media numbers climb. It meant I had people from all over jumping on board with my story, my voice, and wanting to hear more! I felt so supported, and I can’t wait to get on the road and meet everyone!
What is next for Taryn Papa?
A little something festive to listen to while decorating the Christmas tree! *wink, wink*