Exclusive Interview: Kaitlyn Dorff Talks “Next to You” Single, Having Two Songs Featured in Natty Knocks, and More

Kaitlyn Dorff is the breakout artist of 2023. The gifted singer-songwriter recently dropped her new single “Next to You,” which has quickly become the anthem of the summer. But that’s not all, she also has not one, but two songs featured in the upcoming horror film, Natty Knocks. Pop Culturalist was lucky enough to speak with this rising star about the banner year she’s having!

PC: You come from an artistic family. At what point, did you realize you wanted to pursue a career in music?
Kaitlyn: Coming from the family I have, I feel like there’s never been a question of what I wanted to do growing up. Obviously, there were times as a kid when I was like, “I’m going to be a firefighter,” or whatever, but genuinely I spent most of my time growing up singing, dancing, and acting. I didn’t know anything else really.

PC: Who or what has had the biggest influence on your career?
Kaitlyn: My dad has had the biggest influence on me going into this industry for sure. My dad has always been my biggest supporter and the best teacher I could’ve ever asked for. He’s taught me everything I know about the industry and how to navigate it.

PC: You’ve got a new song out now. Tell us about “Next to You” and the inspiration behind it.
Kaitlyn: “Next to You” is to this day one of my favorite songs I’ve ever written, and I believe it’s because of how much I connect to it. It’s truly the most honest song I’ve ever written. I wrote it when I was really in love with someone who couldn’t have been more different than me. This person was definitely my muse in my young life, and I feel very lucky to have had him and to be able to share my story in hopes that others can connect and relate too.

PC: You’ve released a few songs at this point in your career. If you had to pick the one that best encompasses who you are as an artist, right now, which would it be and why?
Kaitlyn: “Next to You” for sure! I feel it’s my most honest song and just feels the most me. If you know me, you know I like to have fun, and I feel like lyrics aside, this song is just genuinely fun.

PC: This has been a banner year for you. Two of your songs will also be featured in Natty Knocks. How did that come to fruition and what can you tease about those tracks?
Kaitlyn: Thank you! Funny enough, I was actually reached out to by the directors after my mom posted a video of my song on Facebook. They saw my video and called and asked if I could send them some songs to see if any would fit in their script, and it just so happened that they loved them and wanted them! My two songs in the film are very pop singer-songwriter and were written at completely different stages in my life. They are both about a young relationship I was in, and I can’t wait for you to hear them!

PC: As you look ahead to the rest of 2023, what does the year hold for you?
Kaitlyn: For the rest of 2023, I’m super excited to release some more singles before the year ends. I have been working on so much music lately, and I just am so ready for it to be out in the world and to be yours!

Pop Culturalist Speed Round

PC: A band or artist that fans would be surprised to learn is on your playlist?
Kaitlyn: Morgan Wallen.

PC: First album you bought?
Kaitlyn: Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons.

PC: First concert you attended?
Kaitlyn: Glee.

PC: An album that changed your life and why?
Kaitlyn: Adele, 19. This album was so special to me at a young age. I auditioned with “Make You Feel My Love” by Bob Dylan for most things as a teen, but Adele’s version is what really made me fall in love with the song.

PC: A venue on your bucket list to perform at?
Kaitlyn: Madison Square Garden.

PC: A must-have on the road?
Kaitlyn: My cat Blue, but since I can’t take her on the road, sweet tea.

To keep up with Kaitlyn, follow her on Instagram, Spotify, and Apple Music.