Imperfect Beauty Press

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"Independent singer-songwriter Katie Runnels has returned with her new release, “Imperfect Beauty.” The song blends soulful vocals with dreamy electronic layers. The track introduces a fresh direction for the Flagstaff, Arizona-based artist and producer..."

"Katie Runnels has always been a storyteller at heart, weaving honest, heartfelt narratives through her music and work as an educator. With her latest single, “Imperfect Beauty,” she unveils a fresh sound that blends ambient electronic textures with soulful vocals, marking a bold evolution from her folk-rock roots...."

"Katie Runnels has built her career on authenticity and a deep belief in the power of music as a tool for healing and transformation..."

"Katie Runnels’ new single “Imperfect Beauty” positions her as an artist intent on addressing the complicated work of self-acceptance. The track builds on a production style rooted in ambient electronics and smooth, soulful vocals, allowing the message to carry as much weight as the sound...."

"There’s something quietly defiant about Katie Runnels’ return to music. After nearly fifteen years since her debut album Reality Cloud,…"

"When reflecting on the topic of compassion, how often do we find ourselves defaulting to the topic of compassion for others -- which is important -- but then painting over the notion of self-compassion? For many people, it’s likely often. Katie Runnels, through her brand Imperfect Beauty, uses her original music as an avenue to promote mental health and self-love for everyone -- especially girls and women. For Runnels, a lifelong calling came about with a single song...."

"Katie Runnels isn’t chasing perfection — she’s dismantling it. On her new single Imperfect Beauty, the Flagstaff singer-songwriter and producer opens up a space where honesty outweighs image, and vulnerability hits harder than polish. The track arrives as a soft rebellion against everything the industry tells artists — and women in particular — to hide..."

"We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Katie Runnels.  We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Katie below.

Imperfect Beauty Revolution:

When I started therapy in my early 20s, I realized that without self-love and self-acceptance, I could not move forward and evolve. It was a very difficult journey because I grew up in a very authoritative, religious, and critical family.  I felt like I could not only never measure up to the expectations of my parents, but I also felt like I never measured up to society’s expectations of me..." 

"Success begins with radical honesty—first with ourselves and then with others. Until we truly acknowledge who we are and what we desire, we often chase unfulfilling goals, only to feel empty and eventually give up. A deep understanding of ourselves and what brings us joy is essential. Ideally, that joy comes from contributing to a better world. For Katie Runnels, being of service to others and using creativity as a means to do so has been her lifelong mission..."

"Katie Runnel’s latest project, Imperfect Beauty, is more than just an album—it’s a statement of resilience, growth, and the power of embracing imperfections. In this candid conversation, she opens up about her creative influences, her journey through personal trials, and the vision that drives her artistry..."

"Katie Runnels latest track “Imperfect Beauty,” a song that feels less like a comeback and more like a quiet revolution. Released independently in April, the single is the emotional and sonic heart of a larger vision: an empowerment movement that reframes how we see ourselves, especially in our most unfiltered moments.

Known for her folk-rock debut Reality Cloud, Katie Runnels has stepped into new territory with this record. “Imperfect Beauty” trades acoustic warmth for ambient shimmer, but it never loses her essential voice, both in tone and intention. There’s an honesty in the track’s textures and vocal delivery that makes the message land with more than lyrical impact. This is music that holds space..."

“Imperfect Beauty” opens with soft light and keeps it. Katie Runnels shapes the track with vapor like synths, a steady pulse, and a vocal that sits at the center like a calm flame. The production favors clarity. Each element enters with purpose and leaves room for the lyric to land. The result is elegant and clear headed..."