Meet Carly Kincannon | Business Owner and Freelance Singer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Carly Kincannon and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Carly, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I’ve been in the musical theater community in the city for the past 15 years. In that time, I have met more talented and incredible women than I can count. The job market is so saturated – if you aren’t currently working on Broadway, it isn’t a reflection of your talent. I felt these women needed an opportunity to work in between other gigs. A place to use their talents, to inspire others, to give back to the community…America’s Sweethearts is the connective tissue between those jobs.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Personally, I have always been interested in vocal pedagogy. I had success as a young singer because of my dedication to vocal technique and practice, and I believe that has bled into my professional life. When I moved to New York after getting my undergrad at Northwestern University, I really struggled to find my place in the music world. I was affected by everything and everyone – casting directors, teachers, peers, public reviews…everyone encourages you to put yourself into a niche. But when I finally stopped listening to all that noise – that’s when I felt the happiest and the most like myself. I fell into more of a freelancer’s lifestyle, and it’s brought me so much joy. I am able to use the technique I worked so hard for in any way I choose – rock bands, jazz, contemporary musical theater, corporate work. And I’m able to use that learned work ethic to run my business and inspire others.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I live in Astoria, so I would have to promote my neighborhood haunts: Il Bambino for soups and paninis, sitting underneath the Hellgate Bridge for a great hang, Sweet Afton for cocktails, Sandwich King for The Bomb (seriously, look it up)…but my city hangs are equally as awesome. If it were up to me, I’d chill in Astoria Park and then take the ferry to the city because the view is amazing…Ippudo for ramen (can you tell I live for food?), 55 Bar for live music, Bar 65 (on top of Rock Center) for incredible drinks and views…but really, my perfect day ends with hot dogs and pitchers of beer at Rudy’s on 9th avenue with good friends.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Honestly, I’d be worthless without the love and support of my partner and the women of my company. They have seen the best and the worst of me over the past 6 years. For whatever reason, my husband is convinced that I can do anything, and would never let me believe otherwise. And the gals? They are an everyday inspiration. They are talented, insightful, and compassionate. They bring their entire selves to this group. They challenge me when my decisions are questionable, they hold me accountable…not to mention their voices and the way they connect to our audience members. They deserve every ounce of credit here.

Website: www.americas-sweethearts.com

Instagram: @carlykincannon

Linkedin: Carly Kincannon

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUpQ1yDjd46BNd9x_xAMBTA

Image Credits
Kris Rogers Photography Matthew Doudt Photography