Katy's blog

Week 2

Yesterday morning, we were invited to Mr Knowles Church. The best thing I have EVER experienced. Because I love gospel music, I got really emotional when watching the gospel singers, it made me feel so happy and positive, and I really did not want to leave! I am extremely grateful to Mr. Knowles for inviting us there, I felt very honored, and so that was a lovely morning. A few arguments have been breaking out amongst the group, and there has been quite a lot of tension at some points. To be honest, I don't want to get involved because I have come here to focus on my music solely, so I feel that arguments are a complete waste of time. I listen to everyone's opinions, but I feel that at times, this trip is so overwhelming; some people can let it get to them. Mr. Knowles set me a task last night to sing against one of his best gospel singers, Chanelle from Trinty. Watching her perform was very inspiring, she has an amazing, deep gospel voice, and I know that Mr. Knowles wanted to see me crack! But I kept my cool, I was feeling quite nervous because of the hard act to follow, but I played my piano and sung, and I feel I did well. I am always critical every time I perform, but I do feel I did well, and I got very good comments so I was happy. The second time I sung the song to Mr. Knowles, I had to look solely at him, and look deep into his eyes whilst singing. We locked eyes, and it felt great to portray the hunger and passion I have for my music to him. I started to think 'Wow, I cannot believe I am singing and playing to Mathew Knowles..' and I know I have to show him what I am made of!

Week 1

Well guys, I really do not know where to start. This whole adventure has started, and it is the craziest and most surreal experience. I really am living the dream. Thank you to all those that voted for me to get me out here in the States. It means the world, it really does, and I will make you ALL proud.

Let me first start by talking about my fellow Chancers. I feel truly blessed to be working alongside real talent. Everyone has their own style and is completely different, therefore although this is a competition, we are all here to help each other and give tips and advice which is very much appreciated. You got the girls, Kamal, Elesha, Ella, Marika and myself. Kamal is a real comedian, very inquisitive, and we really click. She is not only a talented singer, but a brilliant dancer, so I hope she can teach me some popping and I might actually look good doing it, rather than look like your Nan at the Christmas party. Elesha and I clicked right back from the London audition, and because she is the oldest here, she makes me feel safe and protected. She is very talented, and I really do look up to her. 'Hello martin, its Linda...' too many jokes!! Ella is my little munchkin. She has that old school glamour about her which I love, and she really does keep it real. We really bonded yesterday getting our 'Indian tea' and she is beautiful on the inside and out. Marika is a very sweet and focused young lady. She has a lot of faith which I admire. She is the quietest out of all the girls, but she knows what she has to do out here. All the girls are stunning, so sometimes when I wake up looking like Harry Potter it can be quite daunting seeing their beautiful selves!!

I get on really well with the guys in their own way. James and I got really close during our New York adventure with Mr Legend, and he really is a mature, kind hearted talented gentleman. He has a beautiful soulful voice, and we had good jams on the streets in NY. He is a funny character, and I respect his militant focused way of dealing with situations. Faro is a wicked guy. We met at the Lawyers office for the first time, and really clicked. He is extremely genuine, talented and is very caring. He really is too cool for school. I really do look up to him. Lyricist is a cool guy, he has a good look and he is a competitive person, which is good for this industry. I am looking forward to seeing him perform!

Well, that's the Chancers! Since arriving, it really has been manic. Mathew Knowles is everything I expected, militant, focused, and eccentric but I can see his warm heart. I have a lot of respect for him, and I feel extremely privileged to be around someone with that much success. He makes me feel very positive and driven, and that's what I love. He picked James and me to go to NY to work with John Legend which was, well, it really did leave me speechless. Katy Shotter not speaking?!?!!? Never!!! John was mind-blowing. His talent is unreal, and he had a real beautiful personality. The advice and feedback he gave me was gold dust, and I have kept that close to my heart, ready to use for this adventure.