Lindsay Kaye Finds Her Voice, and Her Roots on “Too Country For California”

If you’ve ever felt like the odd one out in a sea of spray tans and rooftop rosé, Lindsay Kaye gets it. Her new single, “Too Country For California,” is a vibrant, tongue-in-cheek anthem for anyone who’s ever missed home while trying to fit into a place that just doesn’t get them.

Blending Nashville twang with California sunshine, the Virginia-raised, L.A.-based singer-songwriter carves out her own lane with playful lyrics and a whole lot of heart. “Too Country For California” tells the story of a girl who swapped wide open fields for palm trees, but never lost her love for Southern charm, sweet tea, and staying grounded in her roots.

“I just hope these songs bring people a little joy,” Kaye shares. “Whether it’s a reminder of home or just something to sing along to on a sunny drive.”

The track is part of a sun-soaked release that also includes “Skinny Margarita,” a poolside bop that proves Kaye can flex fun just as effortlessly as she drops emotional truths. These aren’t just songs, they’re snapshots of her story, layered with humor, homesickness, and that classic country honesty.

Too Country For California feels like a love letter to both coasts, one boot in the sand, the other firmly planted in red dirt. Lindsay Kaye isn’t trying to chase trends. She’s here to make her own, and she’s doing it with charm, confidence, and a margarita in hand.

Too Country For California” is such a vibe. Was it based on a specific moment where you felt totally out of place?

It’s inspired by a lot of moments where I felt out of place or misunderstood. Sometimes trying to be polite, but it was taken the wrong way, or showing up to a party or event and feeling like I wore the wrong thing.  It's about those times when you just don't feel like you fit in with the crowd.  

How do your Virginia roots continue to shape your sound and storytelling, even now that you’re based in California?

Growing up in Virginia has greatly shaped who I am, including my values and mannerisms. No matter how long I’m in California, my roots still show up in little ways that remind me who I am. 

“Skinny Margarita” feels like the perfect summer anthem. What inspired that one?

Thank you! I wanted it to give summer vibes, and I wanted to write a song about my favorite Friday night drink, and then I realized  I don’t think there’s a skinny margarita song out there.

I also liked the idea that it matches my personality, and I thought to myself, if I were a drink, I’d be a skinny margarita. I really just wanted to create a poolside vibe that makes people feel good. 

Your music blends heartfelt and humorous so well. How do you strike that balance in your songwriting? 

I try to write as honestly as possible while letting my personality shine through.   I've always had a playful, childlike side, and tapping into that energy helps me bring in some lighthearted storytelling and lyrics to my music. 

What do you hope fans feel when they hear this release from start to finish? 

I hope it brings them joy and lets them escape for a little. I wanted to create some music that gives you a moment to let your hair down and just have fun.