Country singer and Lake Norman native Brooke Lee

June 18. Nashville artist and Lake Norman native Brooke Lee returns to the BoatYard LKN stage this Saturday with guests Diamond Dixie and Bourbon Sons. The country singer is known for her high energy shows and lends her harmonious voice with a touch of grit to classic and original songs alike. Brooke Lee’s newest single, “She Would’ve Loved This,” is streaming on all platforms now and the new release “Dandelion” featuring Lukas Nelson is coming in July. —Jason Benavides

1. I know you’ve been asked this a hundred times but who are your musical influences past and present?

Growing up, I absolutely loved P!nk. She inspires me so much when it comes to stage performance, and her voice is so stand out.

As a writer I’ve always been drawn to Travis Meadows. Ashley McBryde, Grace Potter, Chris Stapleton, and Willie Nelson are some of my absolute favorites. I love the authenticity they all carry.

2. The first song that introduced me to your music was “Slow Burning Love.” Is there a signature song of yours that holds a special place for you?

“Slow Burning Love” is my favorite song to play in our set. I would say the most special release so far has been “So Beautiful.” I wrote it as a hopeful reminder I’d find love again. Seeing how both guys and gals relate to it has been magic. It’s fun, uplifting, and feels like an anthem for so many different seasons of life.

3. You’ve toured with some great artists but what was it like touring with the legendary Willie Nelson?

Willie Nelson

Opening for and singing with Willie Nelson was unforgettable—he made familiar songs feel brand new. It was truly surreal.

4. Do you have any favorite places or memories of Lake Norman?

Lake Norman is so special to me. One of my favorite memories is the last show I played in town before I moved to Nashville. We played a show at Jack’s Corner Tap.

I owe so much to the bar owners and managers in town. They really took a chance on a 15-year-old and they’re still letting me come back and play now. Before I moved out, the set was filled with covers, there’s no feeling like going back home now, and Lake Norman singing my own songs back to me.

5. What do you do to keep the passion for songwriting and performing fresh?

For me being on stage is what I’m working so hard for. It’s my favorite place to be. It’s where I feel most myself.

As for songwriting, I think it’s just important to keep living life. I truly strive to write things that are personal to me, and about experiences that I’ve been through. I crave to be inspired, and I love that I get to inspire others with my music.

Boots in the Yard Country Music Festival

June 21, starting at 6 pm | A night of country music with Brooke Lee and guests Diamond Dixie and Bourbon Sons.

Tickets are $15 in advance, $20 at the door. BoatYard LKN, 18418 Statesville Rd., Cornelius