Caitlin Cary Biography

Short Summary

Caitlin Cary is an American singer-songwriter and visual artist best known for her role as a founding member of the alt-country band Whiskeytown. Her contributions to the music industry are marked by her distinctive voice and adept fiddle playing, which have earned her significant acclaim. Beyond her work with Whiskeytown, she has also pursued a successful solo career and collaborated with various artists, contributing to the broader Americana and alt-country scenes.

Early Life & Education

Caitlin Cary was born on October 28, 1968, in Seville, Ohio. She grew up in a musical household, which fostered her early interest in music. Her father was a church organist, and this exposure to music from a young age had a profound influence on her. She attended Oberlin College, where she studied English literature, before moving to Raleigh, North Carolina, to pursue a Master of Fine Arts in creative writing at North Carolina State University. It was during her time in Raleigh that she became actively involved in the local music scene, setting the stage for her future career.

Career Highlights

Caitlin Cary's career took off as a member of Whiskeytown, a band she co-founded with Ryan Adams in 1994. The group played a pivotal role in the alt-country movement of the 1990s, releasing acclaimed albums like "Faithless Street" and "Strangers Almanac." After Whiskeytown disbanded, she embarked on a solo career, releasing albums such as "While You Weren't Looking" and "I'm Staying Out." Her collaborations extend to working with artists like Thad Cockrell and the supergroup Tres Chicas. Cary has also explored her talents as a visual artist, creating unique fabric collages.

Major Achievements

Co-founded Whiskeytown, a seminal band in the alt-country genre.
Released several solo albums that received critical acclaim.
Collaborated with various artists, enriching the Americana music scene.
Developed a parallel career as a visual artist, showcasing her fabric collages.

Famous Quotes

"The fiddle is my voice, my favorite voice."
"Art and music are both about storytelling."

Interesting Facts

Caitlin Cary originally aspired to be a writer before fully pursuing music.
She is known for creating art pieces from repurposed fabric.
Her music often explores themes of love, loss, and resilience.
Cary has been an advocate for artists' rights and fair compensation in the music industry.

Legacy / Influence

Caitlin Cary's influence extends beyond her music, as she has been a significant figure in the alt-country and Americana genres. Her work with Whiskeytown helped define the sound of 1990s alt-country, and her solo endeavors have continued to inspire musicians. As a visual artist, her innovative use of fabric has also made an impact in the art world. Her dedication to storytelling through both music and art ensures her lasting legacy.