It has to be every performer’s delight to receive an invitation to guest star on the acclaimed television series “Sesame Street” and sing alongside the infamous characters and their adoring kid fans. For Atlanta-based singer Cathy Rollins, it’s actually on her bucket list. Having performed with the likes of Grammy Award-winning artists Michael Bublé and Jennifer Holliday, Rollins steps out on her own and releases her first new single “Gotta Lift My Hands Up.”
The Spelman College graduate and Kentucky native released her new project on several plaforms, including iTunes and Amazon. Rollins became known throughout the Atlanta community after performing at the Fabulous Fox Theatre, Chastain Park, the Atlanta Jazz Festival and the Southwest Arts Center.
A songwriter and praise and worship leader, she got her start singing in school plays. In her primary school years, she landed the lead role of Dorothy in the production of The Wiz. Her talents landed her an audition and acceptance to Louisville’s Youth Performing Arts School . While there, Rollins was the recipient of numerous awards and had the honor of performing at the Kentucky Derby and starring in the lead role of several productions. Rollins is currently a prominent soloist at Cascade United Methodist Church in Atlanta’s southwest community.
When did you know that being a musician was your calling?
I’m pretty sure I knew at a very early age, but was distracted by being young and just life in general. I thought that singing wouldn’t provide me with enough money. So I went off to college and majored in Computer Science. Now, thankfully I’ve lived long enough to realize that being happy is not about money!
Describe three other occupations you’ve held.
I’ve always worked in the technology field. I’ve been a computer programmer, and project manager.
What inspires you to perform?
I am truly inspired by just having the ability to express myself thru my music. Performing is part of who I am. I love connecting with audiences in hopes that the music touches, inspires and blesses those who hear it.
How would you describe your brand of music?
Praise and Worship with a contemporary feel. I love to worship so I love music that reminds me of God’s goodness.
When you are on stage, what do you want to convey about your style?
The focus is less on style but more on the message in the ministry. It is so important that I keep the main thing the main thing. When I am truly in worship, a lot of times I am not quite aware of the delivery style of the song.
Name three musicians who have influenced your approach to being a musician?
Donald Lawrence
Yolanda Adams
Avery Sunshine
What are the effects to society that you would like the results of listening to your music to be?
I like the effect on society to understand that all things belong to God and He created all things. A lot of the music that I write is connected R&B. some of my friends laugh at me and say “Cathy, you can find some God in every song.” I’ve done Praise and Worship and can start with a song like “How Great is Our God” and finish up with Luther Vandross “So Amazing” or Layla Hathaway’s “I’m Coming Back,” Oh, and don’t let me start with some Earth Wind and Fire (The Stone, Keep Your Head to the Sky …) When you listen to some of the lyrics in these songs you know and realize that these come from a very spiritual place. I simply want people to realize the origin of all things is God. It’s that simple!
Name three musician you would like to record with that are hit makers?
Donald Lawrence
Anthony Brown
Tasha Cobbs
If you could make a duet with someone who would it be and why?
Anthony Brown
What musical achievements have you yet to obtain?
Tour in the UK and be invited on Sesame Street!
Finish the sentences:
When I hit the stage I feel … nervous but excited
When the crowd is responding to my music I know … God is in the midst
I appreciate my fans because … They are open and they tell me how they felt after they hear me sing
Music is my calling …and my ministry
My method of studying music is … practice, practice, practice
When you find my music I want you to … BUY IT and SHARE IT!
Follow Cathy Rollins on social media. FB: cathy rollins sings, T: @cathypraises and IG: @cathypraises
