CC: In your opinion, what is the single most difficult challenge jazz musicians face today?

KM: SEE ABOVE ANSWER. This is a little like the first question you asked. There are so many, its actually feels ridiculous to go into them. And who cares anyway? Anyone who finds they simply must sing jazz music can’t be that interested in practical things like challenges. There is a desire to express in a unique and creative way that is unquenchable. The never-ending supply of challenges simply helps the person hone in further and further on that desire. Like the Lions at the Gates of Knowledge, the completely impractical nature of being a jazz singer serves to discourage all but the most sincere (or stubborn, or deluded, or wealthy...hmmm, perhaps I’d better abandon this line of reasoning).

You can read the rest of the interview HERE.

A natural inclination for swing, an affinity for improvising, curiosity about harmonic structure and the ability to hear and sing changes, love of the past that drives you to listen to thousands of recordings – or one recording thousands of times, things like that.

Also, please visit Kate's website.  She's got a new album coming out April 6th - Girl Talk.