Born and raised in Brooklyn Park, Maryland, Karlie Bartholomew has always had a passion for music. While shy as a child, Karlie was able to use music to find her voice. She started writing her own songs at a young age, participating in every talent show she could beginning in elementary school.
Following in her father’s musical footsteps, Karlie taught herself to play guitar on his old six-string while she was in high school. Heavily influenced by artists like Ingrid Michaelson, Norah Jones and Sara Bareilles, Karlie is drawn to authenticity and strives to keep her lyrics honest. “My songs focus on storytelling, hoping the listener can see themselves in my music,” she explains. Her smooth voice, jazzy chord progressions and folk-inspired lyrics will silence any room.
Now living in Nashville, Tennessee, Karlie is currently working on her latest project - her debut EP. She released her first single, “Brooklyn Park,” in October 2021. You can catch her performing at local Nashville and Franklin, TN music venues, such as NashHouse Spoon & Saloon, Alley Taps, Belcourt Taps and Gray's on Main.
Karlie Bartholomew's Top Six
What makes Nashville special to you? One of the main things I love about Nashville is that there are so many other musicians and songwriters. It’s great to be surrounded by people who are willing to support you and are working towards similar goals.
How would you say your hometown of Brooklyn Park, Maryland differs from Nashville? Maryland is on the Chesapeake Bay and only a little over an hour from the beach. Being so close to water, a lot of my favorite dishes include seafood - such as crab cakes, cream of crab, oysters, etc. I only get to eat these dishes when I visit my hometown since there is not as much seafood available in Tennessee. It does make me appreciate these meals more when I am able to have them.
Say you had a completely free day in Nashville—no work allowed. What would you be doing?
I would get coffee at the Barista Parlor, go to the First Art Museum, grab a few books at McKay’s, and find some records at Grimey’s.
What are some of your favorite Nashville restaurants? The Stillery, bartaco, Pinewood Social
Of course we love your style, any favorite Nashville shops? Molly Green and Finnleys are two are my favorite Nashville shops!
If someone is coming to Nashville for the first time, where do you take them? I like to take first-time guests to either the Country Music Hall of Fame or Musician’s Hall of Fame, as well as Broadway. 12 South is another great spot for shopping and a bite at Edley’s BBQ.
One Thing About Nashville
What is one way Nashville has influenced your music? I didn’t do much co-writing before moving to Nashville, but it’s something I’ve really started to enjoy since moving to town. I still do a lot of solo writing, but co-writing has been become a big part of my writing process.
Five Favorites
What’s your favorite place to go for ice cream in Nashville? Jeni’s Ice Cream. My favorite flavor is Brown Butter Almond Brittle.
What’s your favorite place for breakfast in Nashville? Frothy Monkey. I love their Monkey Mocha!
Do you have a favorite music venue? I like the listening room atmosphere at City Winery and I love the intimate settings at The Basement and The High Watt.
Favorite museum? Frist Art Museum
Best place to grab a beer? HQ Beercade. I love getting to hang out with friends and play arcade games.