“I Wanna Be Like Steve Martin” by Kat Reinhert

Up-and-coming singer-songwriter Kat Reinhert’s new song, “I Wanna Be Like Steve Martin,” is a delightful mix of folk, soft rock, and more. Adding the banjo and Reinhert’s witty lyrics makes it a fun-loving, upbeat tune that’s just as enjoyable as the title suggests. This song is not just about perseverance; it’s about having a good time. It’s a reminder that we should all be more like Steve Martin and always follow our dreams, never give up, and continue to look forward. According to Reinhert, the song is an “inspirational ‘bop with a banjo for anyone trying to figure out how to get to where they want to be.”

“I Wanna Be Like Steve Martin” is more than just a catchy title. Reinhert’s inspiration for the track came from a profound moment- an interview with Martin that she heard, where he shared his journey of learning the banjo. Martin’s dedication, practicing an hour a day for ten years and eventually winning a Grammy, struck a chord with Reinhert. She recalls, “…In hindsight, this was an accident on my part (not the Grammy part), as Martin has been playing banjo most of his life – but my mistake still inspired this song.” The song was further inspired by Reinhert’s brother who had a near-fatal accident twenty years ago and was told he would never walk again, which he now does. This accidental inspiration adds a touch of spontaneity and creativity to “I Wanna Be Like Steve Martin.”

From a musical standpoint, the song is a unique blend of captivating instruments. The jangly guitars, drums, and the mystifying banjo come together to create a sound that is both familiar and fresh. Featured on “I Wanna Be Like Steve Martin” are Jesse Lewis on guitar, Perry Smith on guitar, Matt Aronoff on bass, Ross Pederson on drums, and Nir Felder on banjo. The multifaceted instrumental, along with Reinhert’s inspiring lyrics and vocals, makes for an encouraging, uplifting song in the folk-pop genre.

When asked what “January” is about, Valianti stated it “…is a song about loving someone from afar, knowing that the person they’re with is a better fit than you are. The hurt is still there, and the feelings don’t go away, but you know that as hard as you might try, you’re not what they need. The song reflects the impact of memories, even as life moves forward, and the feeling of being tethered to the past and what could have been.”

Reinhert is an accomplished artist, having a slew of work including albums, podcasts, and even children’s music. Her most recent album was 2021’s “DEAD RECKONING” which recieved positive reviews. She is currently a Songwriting Professor at Berklee College of Music, a testament to her expertise and knowledge in the field. She is also the co-founder, along with Sarah Gulish of Songwriting for Music Educators. Take a listen to “I Wanna Be Like Steve Martin,” today, available on major music streaming platforms.

Photo Credit: Aleks Victoria

Written by Melissa Cusano

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