Katie Katy: Finding Her Voice, Overcoming Challenges, and Embracing New Beginnings
For Katie Katy, music has always been at the core of who she is. A familiar name in the Greater Houston music scene, she has spent years building a reputation for powerful performances, heartfelt storytelling, and a deep connection with her audience. But like any journey in the arts, hers has been one filled with highs and lows. Now, as she navigates a new chapter in her career while continuing to chase her musical dreams, she reflects on the experiences that shaped her, the challenges she has faced, and the opportunities that lie ahead.
From Military Moves to Music: Katy Roots and a Passion for Performing
Katie’s journey to becoming a singer-songwriter began long before she ever took the stage. Born in Wichita Falls, Texas, she moved frequently due to her father’s Air Force career before settling in Katy in 1999—a place she now proudly calls home. She attended Cinco Ranch High School before continuing her studies at the University of Nebraska at Kearney.
“Katy definitely taught me about southern charm, elegance, and diversity,” she shared. “Because Katy has grown with Houston, it’s become such a melting pot. I’ve been lucky to perform at so many fabulous venues here, and that has helped me expand my set list across multiple genres. It’s challenging, but in the best way.”
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Despite her growing success, Katie remains grounded in her family values. She is the youngest of three sisters, and her parents have built careers in healthcare—her father as a nurse at Memorial Hermann and her mother as a dietitian at Texas Orthopedic. As for her personal life, Katie remains focused on her career but holds out hope for the right person to come along. “Waiting on God’s grace for the right man,” she laughed. “Relationships can be hard to come by as a musician.”
When she’s not on stage, Katie enjoys spending time outdoors, hiking, and exploring new places—a love that stems from her childhood years spent in Colorado Springs. And when it comes to food, she keeps things simple: “You can never go wrong with Mexican food, crawfish, or seafood! And honestly, if HEB counted as a restaurant, I’d say them! I probably spend more time there than anywhere else!”
A Journey in Music: From Small Gigs to Big Moments
Katie’s love for music started at a young age, but it wasn’t until she watched the movie Selena that she truly felt inspired to pursue it. “I would wear my family out singing made-up Spanish words as a little girl,” she recalled. Later, music became a serious passion. “One summer, I fell in love with a guitar player. The love didn’t last, but the music did! I threw myself into learning guitar so I could accompany myself. I even brought cookies to bars so they’d let me play. If the music wasn’t good, at least I brought food!”
Her Texas roots and Katy’s live music scene helped shape her musical style. “Texas country is a big deal here, and it really allowed me to connect with audiences through storytelling and two-stepping,” she said. “Dance halls are truly God’s gift to musicians. Watching people make memories on the dance floor while we play is such an incredible feeling.”
Katie Katy performing at the HLSR Cook-Off in 2024. (Source: Katie Katy)Over the years, she has performed at countless venues, but a few moments stand out. “Playing at The Houston Rodeo, performing at an auction at Mo’s Place in Katy, and playing with my dad on bass at Duke’s Tavern—those were really special.” But for Katie, it’s about more than just the music—it’s about connection. “I love being a part of people’s nights, their memories. Whether it’s a couple dancing or someone wanting to hear their favorite sad song, it’s beyond touching to get to know strangers through music.”
Her sound is a blend of country with blues undertones, drawing inspiration from artists like Chris Stapleton, Lauren Daigle, and folk and Christian music. “I’d say my sound has a country flavor with some blues,” she noted. “But it’s hard to put myself in just one category.”
Vocal Struggles: Overcoming One of Her Biggest Challenges
In recent months, Katie has faced one of the toughest challenges of her career—vocal nodules. The condition, which affects the vocal cords, made it difficult for her to control her voice, and at times, it would cut out entirely.
“I knew something was wrong when my voice wasn’t there the way it used to be,” she said. “I would cough constantly, my range was gone, and sometimes I couldn’t even speak after performing.” The diagnosis was devastating. “To be candid, it was one of the hardest things I’ve been through. I had just bought a home, and I had huge opportunities with investors that all came to a screeching halt.”
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Doctors ordered her to take three months off, but with a fully booked schedule, rest wasn’t an option. “By the grace of God, my voice is healing, but I have to be extremely careful with how much I book.” The experience has forced her to rethink her approach to self-care. “I hate taking breaks because I don’t want to lose people, but rehydration and rest are crucial. I’m still learning to prioritize my vocal health.”
A New Chapter: Becoming a Loan Signing Agent and Mobile Notary
With her music career in flux, Katie knew she needed to find another income stream—one that would give her the flexibility to continue performing in a capacity that will support her vocal recovery. That’s when she stumbled across loan signing and notary work.
“I actually found out about it through TikTok!” she admitted with a laugh. “I saw a woman talking about how she made a great living while maintaining a flexible schedule. I needed that same flexibility for music, so I did a deep dive, researched the income potential, and thought, ‘This has to work!’”
Balancing both careers has been a challenge, but she remains optimistic. “I studied every night and felt so left behind watching musicians perform, but I reminded myself that God blesses productivity and persistence. Now, I have a safety net, and I don’t feel pressured to overbook my voice just to pay my mortgage.”
Katie Katy in her newest venture as a loan signing agent and notary. (Source: Katie Katy)Her new role allows her to accept or decline jobs based on her availability, giving her the freedom to pursue music without financial stress. “It’s been incredibly freeing! Knowing I have another way to make money means I don’t have to put myself at risk vocally. Plus, it’s amazing to be able to pay my mom back for all the times she’s helped me out!”
Looking Ahead: Music, Growth, and Faith
As Katie moves forward, she remains committed to her music, her growth, and the people who support her. “The sky is the limit,” she said. “I want to keep playing, bring in my band more, and connect with people through both music and my new business.”
She knows challenges come with any dream, but perseverance makes all the difference. “Keep going. Storms in life are inevitable, but if you never start, you can’t master it. Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.”
Grateful for the support of her family, friends, and community, Katie hopes to continue serving others—whether through her music or her notary work. “It means the world to me, and I’d be honored to have your business!”
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
