While Kate Hudson initially garnered fame as a talented actress, conversations with her reveal an unwavering passion for music that rivals her love for acting. The pandemic provided Hudson with the rare opportunity to focus on her musical talents and, with encouragement from friends such as renowned producer Linda Perry, she courageously released her debut album, the beautifully crafted Glorious, earlier this year, marking a significant milestone in her artistic journey.
This endeavor is far from a fleeting whim for Hudson; it represents a deep-seated passion that has always resided within her. She expresses eagerness to return to the studio and has aspirations to tour in 2025, a venture that excites her immensely.
Although this is our first conversation, the joy and familiarity are palpable, as Hudson and I share numerous mutual friends. Our discussion flows seamlessly, encompassing her enduring love for music, future plans, and her admiration for contemporary artists like Sabrina Carpenter and Chappell Roan.
Steve Baltin: I saw you played a benefit last week where you did “Proud Mary.” It looked like you had a lot of fun up there.
Kate Hudson: Oh, it was absolutely exhilarating! My mom asked me if I would sing at the event, and I naturally said, “Of course.” However, I found myself without my usual band. Luckily, a fantastic backing band stepped up, comprised of exceptional LA session musicians who perform with various artists when not gigging at home. Their sound was phenomenal. The addition of a brass section brought me immense joy; I’ve always had a soft spot for horns. When I learned they would be joining us, I knew we had to include ‘Proud Mary.’ Being on stage ignites a spark in me, and I feel like I’m gradually finding my groove with each performance. I’m still learning, and that sense of exploration adds to the excitement.
Baltin: Being on stage is a completely new and different challenge and I’m sure it’s a lot of fun.
Hudson: It truly is so much fun! You’ve nailed it—I’ve particularly enjoyed the challenge of performing in intimate settings. Playing in small venues where you can hear a pin drop is exhilarating. It allows me to concentrate deeply on my instrument and capture the audience’s full attention, especially when they are so close. The vulnerability in those moments can be a bit nerve-wracking, given how directly you can read their responses. Yet, I cherish this unique opportunity to connect with the audience. That said, I also adore playing larger venues. I’m eagerly anticipating the chance to focus on an actual tour in the near future because it’s an experience I love immensely.
Baltin: Did you hear your friends saying make an album in your head?
Hudson: Absolutely. I’ve always had deep support from my friends. Many of them in the music industry would often express disbelief at my hesitation, saying, “I don’t get it, why aren’t you doing this?” It’s an ongoing chorus of encouragement reminding me how much they know I love it. Every time I gathered the courage to perform, my friends would look at me, puzzled, asking why I wasn’t pursuing music full-time. I often accepted it as a compliment, though I struggle with receiving compliments. Eventually, I began to wonder why I was so afraid to share my music. The incredible support I had ultimately boosted my confidence to release something into the world.
Baltin: Was there a little bit of trepidation as well as like if I see behind the curtain, it takes away the mystery?
Hudson: Reflecting on the timing of this creative endeavor, I realize that I’ve reached a pivotal moment in my life where my desire to create stems from a genuine place. Positive acknowledgment is always appreciated, but it’s no longer the core motivation driving my artistry. As I grow older, I’ve recognized that my purpose is to perform, act, and connect with audiences, hoping to bring them joy. Achieving the ability to immerse them in a moment of escape is the ultimate compliment for any artist. Once you reach that point of clarity, the focus shifts from how you are perceived to the intrinsic value of what you’re creating and sharing with the world. Peeking behind the curtain can be daunting, but for me, it’s where I grew up, embracing music and touring alongside Chris [Robinson from the Black Crowes]. To truly love this lifestyle, one must be grounded and ready to face intense criticism and judgment. When speaking of music, my passion led me to avoid it for a long time because I felt that, due to its significance in my life, I had to approach it authentically. I wasn’t willing to just go into the studio and perform someone else’s songs haphazardly. My heart lies in songwriting and giving it the attention and respect it deserves. It took the recent global pause for me to realize how vital it was to prioritize my musical aspirations. I recognized that if I reached the end of my life without exploring this facet of myself, I’d regret missing out on something monumental. Upon performing at the Grand Ole Opry, I was overcome with emotion. The last time I was there, I shared the space with Kris Kristofferson, whose passing deeply affected the music community. To stand on that stage, surrounded by a rich history of legendary musicians, and reflect on how close I was to not pursuing this dream, was humbling. I’m eternally grateful I made this choice.
Baltin: When you talk about Kris, what an inspiration. He left nothing on the table. An amazing life.
Hudson: He had such an inspiring career and collaborated with my father, portraying Kurt’s dad in a movie. I’ve had the pleasure of meeting him several times, and his warmth and kindness resonated every time. Music is truly my refuge; it’s where I find comfort. People often ask where my happy place is, and I can confidently say it’s with my piano. Being around music brings me the greatest joy. Musicians share a unique energy and camaraderie, forged by their connection to music. Some may create it; others appreciate it, but there’s a specific audience whose lives are transformed by it. Music transcends barriers, capturing the hearts of those who resonate deeply with it. I feel most at home with those individuals.
Baltin: You grew up more around film. But was music the thing that always spoke to you the most?
Hudson: Without a doubt. Even with my love for films, the ones that resonate with me the most are those that harmoniously integrate music. Music has always been the heartbeat of my creativity. It connects my dreams, much like my father, who is also a musician. My childhood was filled with music; whether through the profound influence of my grandfather, a professional violinist, or my own joys of singing and playing the piano. Musical theater was my earliest aspiration. Reflecting back, I realize that I just released a Christmas song today, “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.” I recorded the original lyrics, inspired by the hauntingly beautiful moment in Meet Me in St. Louis, a film filled with Judy Garland’s enchanting performances that shaped my love for music.
Baltin: Who would be the dream person to tour with?
Hudson: That’s an intriguing question! I’ve considered this a lot lately. There are numerous artists I admire, such as the incredibly talented Lucius, and I’ve always loved Sheryl Crow and Brandi Carlile. I have had a longstanding obsession with The Lumineers since the beginning of their career. Interestingly, I mentioned to Matt [Bellamy] from Muse the other day that it would be wonderful to tour together, especially since our families share such a close bond. It would be a unique experience, ensuring our kids are part of this adventure while avoiding chaos. Additionally, I have lots of admiration for the newer generation of female artists carving their paths, including Chappell Roan and Sabrina Carpenter. Observing these young musicians flourish is incredibly inspiring.
**Interview with Kate Hudson: A Passion for Music and More**
**Steve Baltin:** Kate, thank you for taking the time to chat with me. I saw that you played a benefit recently where you performed “Proud Mary.” How was that experience for you?
**Kate Hudson:** It was absolutely exhilarating! When my mom asked me to sing at the event, I jumped at the chance. Although I didn’t have my usual band with me, I was fortunate to have an amazing backing band made up of LA session musicians. Their sound was phenomenal, and we even had a brass section that really filled out the vibe. Being on stage fuels me, and each performance feels like I’m finding my groove a little more.
**Baltin:** Performing live is such a unique challenge compared to acting. How do you feel about that?
**Hudson:** It’s so much fun, and I’ve really enjoyed the challenge of intimate performances. There’s something exhilarating about playing in small venues where you can hear everything—the vulnerability is thrilling. It’s a great opportunity to connect with the audience. Yet, I also love the energy of larger audiences. I can’t wait to tour and dive deeper into that experience.
**Baltin:** You mentioned earlier how you’ve had a lot of encouragement from your friends in the music industry. Did you ever feel pressure to make an album?
**Hudson:** Oh, definitely. Friends have been supportive, often questioning why I didn’t pursue music more. Their belief in me gradually helped me gather the confidence to step into this world. I’m really grateful for that support.
**Baltin:** Did overcoming that hesitation feel daunting for you?
**Hudson:** It absolutely did. I’ve learned that my artistry comes from a genuine place now. I’ve been able to shift my focus from worrying about how I’m perceived to the joy of creating. Embracing that has been liberating for me. For years, I felt like I had to approach music authentically, and the pause during the pandemic really pushed me to face my fears and explore this side of myself.
**Baltin:** It must be emotional to think about your journey and the legends you’ve looked up to, like Kris Kristofferson.
**Hudson:** Yes, Kris was such an inspiration. Having met him and seen his warmth and kindness made a huge impact on me. Music is my refuge, my true happy place. I’ve always found comfort in it, and it’s a privilege to share that experience with the musicians and audiences who connect with it deeply.
**Baltin:** It sounds like you’re in a really fulfilling place in your life right now. What’s next for you?
**Hudson:** I’m eager to return to the studio and potentially tour in 2025. This new chapter of my artistic journey has been incredibly rewarding, and I can’t wait to see where it leads me next.
**Baltin:** We’re all looking forward to hearing more from you, Kate. Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us today!
**Hudson:** Thank you! I really enjoyed our conversation.