My 2023: Karen Jonas

Hello, who are you, and what are you up to?

Hi! I’m Karen Jonas, a singer and songwriter from Fredericksburg, Virginia. I’m preparing to head to the studio to record my seventh album and I couldn’t be any more excited about it!

What’s the best gig you’ve seen in 2023?

Jason Isbell, for sure. I’m such a fan.

What’s the best gig you’ve played in 2023?

The final show on our UK tour at the Hope & Anchor in Islington was so fabulous and warm. The whole tour was lovely.

Where’s the best place you’ve visited?

Midway through our UK tour we had a chance to stay at an Airbnb in Luddenden Foot. I thought it was absolutely magical. The view, the village, the colors … unforgettable!

Best food you’ve eaten in 2023?

When I’m not out playing music, I really enjoy cooking for my four kids and I have to say I got pretty good at grilling this summer! So I’ll put dinner with my family at the top of this list.

What’s the best thing that’s happened in music generally in 2023?

I think the movement toward bringing intelligent, meaningful songwriting to the forefront is accelerating beautifully.

What’s the best thing that happened to you in music in 2023?

I released my 6th record, a dreamy romantic exploration called The Restless in March. Meanwhile, I wrote the next record.

What’s your favorite song of 2023?

I recently fell in love with Zach Bryan’s gorgeous duet with Kacey Musgraves, ‘I Remember Everything’.

What are your top albums of 2023?

Jason Isbell’s Weathervanes (gutting) and Taylor Swift’s Midnights (especially the bonus tracks, there’s a whole record at the end of that record!)

What are you most proud of in 2023?

Raising my four sweet kids, sharing my music farther than ever with tours and social media, an album release, and writing and preparing to record my seventh record - all at the same time - seems like a big win to me. 

To find out more about Karen and her music you can visit her official website. Or see what she’s up to on Twitter and Instagram.