Meet the Band! Leah Sproul Pulatie

Today we are posting a Q & A with our rhythm guitarist and resident achy-breaky-belter, Leah. Keep reading to learn more about the only Texan in our band.

Where are you from and how did you end up in Kansas City?
I’m originally from the Dallas-Fort Worth area, a small town called Rockwall. My dad grew up in Brookside, though, just blocks from where we live now. I ended up here for grad school at UMKC conservatory but really fell in love the city so stayed put after I graduated.

When did you start playing and singing music?
I remember singing as soon as I could talk. My mom always sang songs and taught them to me. Things like “You Are My Sunshine” and other old country and movie musical songs. She put me in piano lessons when I was 6 or 7 as a trade with the community center where she taught line dancing lessons. I didn’t get my first guitar until high school.

What is your favorite thing about being in Cowtown Country Club?
The group singing is probably my favorite part. It’s such a special piece of what we do, and so gratifying when the 4-part harmonies ring out.

Do you have a favorite song?
Too many. One that has deeply influenced my writing is “The Housatonic at Stockbridge” by Charles Ives.

What other kinds of music do you play?
I’ve played in Classical/art music and free improv ensembles, jazz combos, and singer/songwriter/indie bands.

If you could meet one country music legend who would it be and why?
Dolly. The more I learn her story, listen to her music, and think about how she’s navigated not only the business side of music but also evolved creatively along side it all. Who doesn’t want to meet a person like that?

What is something people are surprised to learn about you?
I lived in Puerto Rico from age 1-5. When I re-learned Spanish in high school my teacher commented that I had a Puerto Rican accent.

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