In the pantheon of modern blues-rock, few artists possess a résumé as storied and technically formidable as Kathryn Grimm. The Portland-based singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist has long been a “musician’s musician,” earning a reputation for a stage presence that, as the Los Angeles Times famously put it, “pummels crowds into a blissful heap.” Her latest single and accompanying visualizer, “Treat Me Like Gold,” finds Grimm operating at the height of her powers. The track is a playful, swaggering blues-rock masterclass aimed at a “less than appreciative partner.” It is a sonic reminder of what happens when an artist who knows her value decides to stop waiting for someone else to catch up, delivered with the sharp-witted authority only a veteran of the scene can command.
Grimm’s trajectory is marked by collaborations that read like a history of rock and soul. From her early days in the original band Group Therapy, where she was backed by the legendary Jeff Buckley, to jamming with Bo Diddley on his own guitar during the filming of Rockula, Grimm has always been in the company of greatness. Her technical prowess even earned her a personal blessing from Al Hendrix after he heard her rendition of “Spanish Castle Magic.” Whether she is the featured guitarist in a Michael Bolton video or showcasing Buckley’s rare slide playing on her Blues Tools album, Grimm’s work is consistently anchored by “scorching guitar work” and a deep-seated respect for the roots of the genre.
Beyond the grit of the blues, Grimm is a highly decorated academic and a versatile creator. Holding a Master’s degree in Jazz Studies and Commercial Music from Cal State L.A., her theoretical depth informs every project she touches—from the high-energy Kathryn Grimm Band (KGB) and The Jazz Rockets to her contributions as a writer for the award-winning Homeless, The Musical. This academic foundation, paired with what Billy Hulting describes as a “voice of an angel” and a guitar style played “like the devil,” allows her to navigate complex arrangements while keeping the emotional stakes raw and accessible.
With “Treat Me Like Gold,” Grimm isn’t just releasing a new track; she is reaffirming her status as a cornerstone of the Northwest music scene. Produced by Dennis Moody (whose credits include Diana Ross and Missy Elliot), the single reflects a polished yet punchy evolution of her sound. It is an anthem for anyone who has ever been undervalued, wrapped in a soulful, rock-heavy package that demands to be played loud. As she continues to host her quarterly jams and balance a dizzying array of creative projects, one thing is certain: Kathryn Grimm remains a rare gem in the industry—and it’s high time everyone treats her accordingly.
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Kathy is great!
Kathy!!
Kathy rules!
Kathy!
Kathy!