Top 5 with Kaitlin McLaughlin from Friend Zone

Get to know a little bit more about Kaitlin McLaughlin, frontwoman for Friend Zone. We wrote about them last month - you can read it here. Kaitlin grew up in Manasquan, NJ. Growing up, she played trombone in the middle school band and later switched to drums (yea girl!). Her go-to song to perform on drums is "Cold Sweat" by James Brown. She started singing around the age of 14 and was part of her high school's choir. She also was a three sport athlete in college AND a high school javelin coach for 10 years! Kaitlin is a huge history nerd and could watch the History Channel all day.

Kaitlin started Friend Zone in 2017 but has been part of the cover band scene since 2014. She has many different interests, whether it's sports, dancing or singing, but performing on stage is her happy place and she wouldn't have it any other way! And over here at The Flying Garter we are happy about that because we love watching her perform!

1. Michael Jackson - An absolute force of nature and musical genius. The way he captivated a crowd with just a look or dance move, left me in awe as a child. His stage presence alone sends him light-years ahead of other artists. Watching him has taught me how to put on a show. Over the years, I’ve strived to be able to emulate his crisp dance moves and impeccable vocal range. As a kid, I would spend hours in my room trying to perfect his dance moves. So much so, that I made a giant hole in the rug. 

2. James Brown - The Godfather of Soul! This artist pulled you in right from the start of the show. His introduction would grab your attention and instantly make you “Get On Up” (pun intended). Every instrument hit played an important role in his performance. It was like watching a master craftsman in their trade. James Brown taught me how to really feel the music and ad lib when the time is right. 

3. Tina Turner - What can I say about the Queen herself Tina Turner!? Powerhouse vocalist, dancer, survivor, businesswoman and barrier breaker. She was way ahead of her time. The fact that she was able to reignite her career in her 50s, shows a true testament to her work ethic and drive as an artist. She is a performer that I greatly admire. Her voice radiates the emotions and attitude necessary to pull you into the songs. Tina is an inspiration to me. I try to embody all that I can of her in my performances. 

4. Elvis Presley - He, along with many other artists such as Chuck Berry, Little Richard, Jerry Lee Lewis, etc., is why we have modern rock and roll. A true performer in his own right, with an influence of gospel in his music. The amazing thing about Elvis is how he could control a crowd with a hip thrust or an upward lip movement. Most of those crowds were puddy in his hand by the end of a show. He broke the rules and helped to set a new stage and style for performers. I will always have admiration for him and his influence on music. 

5. Bruno Mars - An incredible performer, musician, songwriter and singer. He’s an accumulation of Elvis, Michael Jackson and James Brown all in one. No wonder I like him. Each song, each album, has its own style and vibe. He’s given funk/pop a new attitude and identity. Bruno’s shows are an experience and keep you captivated throughout. Bringing back iconic vibes from the 70s and 80s, and creating his own twist on the music. He embodies so many different musicians/performers, which makes his shows all the more enjoyable. The vibe that he exudes is the one that I try to recreate while performing. 

Thank you so much Kaitlin for giving us your Top 5! You can catch Friend Zone on September 20 in Seaside Heights at Beachcomber. Be sure to give Friend Zone a follow on the socials and visit their website to check their upcoming dates.