What happens when a lifetime of musical influences, personal reinvention, and hard-earned experience come together in one powerful record? In Episode 131 of 3 Questions and a Song, host Bill Domiano welcomes Nashville-based singer-songwriter Kara Hesse to discuss her musical journey, her latest album, Devil & the Dove, and the story behind her single “Vanity.”

Blending the raw energy of rock, the storytelling traditions of Americana, and the emotional depth of soul, Kara Hesse has developed a distinctive sound she describes as Americana Rock Soul. Her music reflects years of live performances, songwriting, recording, and personal growth, creating a sound that is both vulnerable and fearless.

Born in Wichita, Kansas, and raised in Boulder, Colorado, Kara grew up surrounded by music. Her father played in bands throughout her childhood, introducing her to rehearsals, live musicians, and the world of rock and blues. At just eight years old, watching a female-fronted band perform Linda Ronstadt’s “You’re No Good” helped spark her lifelong ambition to become a musician. By 14, she was writing original songs after being challenged by her father to learn Carole King’s legendary Tapestry album and create music of her own.

Her early musical development included sitting in with experienced musicians in Denver’s blues and rock clubs, recording background vocals as a teenager, and studying at Berklee College of Music on a vocal scholarship. By age 22, Hesse had achieved another major milestone: performing at Colorado’s iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre alongside a lineup that included B.B. King, Al Green, and Buddy Guy. Her career has continued to bring her onto stages with artists including Steve Miller Band and Howie Day, while her vocal work has connected her with other respected performers in the Americana and roots music community.

Hesse’s path eventually led to Nashville, Tennessee, where a spontaneous performance at a Monday-night open mic at Winners helped open doors to the city’s thriving live music scene. After footage of her performance of “Old Fire” appeared on Undiscovered Nashville, she received an invitation from Ward Guenther to perform at Whiskey Jam. Following several extended visits, she officially made Nashville her home in 2022.

In this episode, Kara discusses the creative journey behind Devil & the Dove, an album five years in the making that brings together musical experiences and personal stories collected across two decades. Recorded across studios from Seattle to Nashville, the project represents a turning point in her artistry—a closing chapter, a creative reset, and the beginning of a new era.

We’ll also explore the story behind “Vanity,” a featured single from Devil & the Dove. The track features drummer Charlie Morgan, whose recording credits include Elton John and Olivia Newton-John, and showcases Hesse’s evolving approach to songwriting, production, and musical expression.

Kara’s influences span generations and genres, from Aretha Franklin, Linda Ronstadt, Bonnie Raitt, and Chaka Khan to Marcus King, Gary Clark Jr., Chris Stapleton, Grace Potter, and Ray LaMontagne. That wide-ranging musical foundation helps shape a sound that refuses to fit neatly into one category.

Beyond music, Hesse is the creator of Roadworn, a handmade brand that grew from her experiences traveling and performing. Like her songwriting, Roadworn reflects her appreciation for storytelling, craftsmanship, individuality, and the memories people carry with them.

Join Bill Domiano for Episode 131 of 3 Questions and a Song, a music interview and discovery series spotlighting artists and the stories behind their songs. Hear Kara Hesse talk about Devil & the Dove, her Nashville music career, the influences that shaped her sound, and the creative evolution behind “Vanity.”

If you enjoy discovering new Americana music, female rock vocalists, soulful singer-songwriters, roots rock, blues rock, independent musicians, Nashville recording artists, and authentic conversations about the creative process, this episode belongs on your watchlist.

Watch Episode 131, discover Kara Hesse, and experience the sound of Americana Rock Soul.

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