Katie Armiger’s journey truly began two years ago when she entered “Houston’s Best Country Singer” contest sponsored by Radio 93Q Country. The contest, which was held over an eight week period, had over 150 boys and girls ages 9-17 in the Junior Division who were vying for the title. After several performances Katie rose to the top to grab the title of Houston’s Best Country Singer in her division with her rendition of Martina McBride’s “Whatever You Say.”
Several months later, Katie arrived in Nashville, where she began her work in the studio with veteran producer Mark Oliverius for her demo. Over the years Oliverius has worked with the likes of Trick Pony, Joe Diffie, Sammy Kershaw, and Lorrie Morgan, among others. Having completed some of the demo tracks that now appear on her debut album it was obvious to all those around Katie that the project was special and should become something more. Thus the juggling act began. At the same time Katie was going to high school and maintaining an A average, she was listening to, writing, and rehearsing music.
“At 16 years old Katie Armiger has a lot to say,” said Oliverius. “She has a huge voice and a strength for songwriting that goes well beyond her years. I believe that she really does have what it takes to make it in this business – a strong musical talent and a passion for what she does.”
"17 In Abilene," which Katie co-wrote with fellow newcomer Ashlee Hewitt, showcases her skillful songwriting ability as well as her strong vocal talent. "17 In Abilene" is the quintessential carefree road trip song about the possibilities of an open road and is the first single off Katie’s debut self-titled album, due out this summer. “I think every teenager daydreams about getting in their car and taking off so we wanted to create a song that captured that carefree feeling in a catchy way,” said Katie. “Ashlee came up with a great groove on the guitar and the song just flowed from there. I hope listeners enjoy "17 In Abilene" as much as I enjoyed writing it.”
“‘Make Me Believe’ is my ‘chick empowerment’ song,” says Katie. “It is all about standing up and saying I cannot be your everything, so if this is not going to work out then you need to leave. It is a powerful song and I hope that is relayed to listeners.” Taking on a reverse perspective than the usual break-up song Katie and her co-writer Ashlee Hewitt, made it a song of strength where the woman finally tells the man that he needs to leave.
Katie's first album, BELIEVE is due for release in May 2008 and heralds the arrival of a distinctive vocal talent with an unforgettable array of powerful and brilliant songs. Drawing musical inspiration from some of country music’s greats like Martina McBride and Sarah Evans, this 16 year old is passionate about her music, focused on her future, and exudes the talent that’s needed to become a household name.
Better In A Black Dress
Katie Armiger Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
I hit the road,
I didn't want to but I had to let you go, oh oh
Whoa oh
I know you're shocked, I know you're mad,
I know it hurts to know a good thing went so bad, whoa oh
Whoa, oh
And I really do hate that you hate me,
I don't need a white veil, I got a black dress,
Don't need a preacher, no no not yet,
Don't have the blues when I've got my red wine.
Out on the town,
or in the city, ain't nothin like the way it fits me,
So take that gown and lay it down to rest,
'Cause I'm better in a black dress.
I'm just a girl, I'm not a wife
I just need a little time to live my life oh, oh
Whoa oh
I wanna dance, I wanna yell,
I wanna band, I don't want no wedding bells, whoa oh
whoa, oh
And maybe one day you'll forgive me, (And maybe one day you)
I don't need a white veil, I got a black dress,
Don't need a preacher, no no not yet,
Don't have the blues when I've got my red wine.
Out on the town, or in the city,
Ain't nothin like the way it fits me,
So take that gown and lay it down to rest,
'Cause I'm better in a black dress.
I'm better in a black dress, call me a hot mess
I feel so good, ooh I gotta confess
I like the way it feels in cowboy boots or heels
So listen up, baby here's the deal
Don't need a white veil, I got a black dress
No No preacher not yet
Don't have the blues when I've got my red wine
Out on the town, or in the city
Ain't nothin' like the way it fits me
So take that gown and lay it down to rest
'Cause I'm better in a black dress
I'm better in a black dress
I'm better in a black dress
The song "Better In A Black Dress" is an empowering anthem about a woman who has chosen to break free from the expectations of society and live life on her own terms. The first verse opens with the singer leaving her partner, symbolizing her liberation from the limits of a traditional relationship. Despite the pain she has caused, she chooses to focus on her own happiness and fulfillment. She asserts that she doesn't need a white veil or a preacher, as marriage is not the only path to happiness.
The chorus repeats the central idea of the song, with the singer declaring that she is better suited for a black dress than a white wedding gown. She revels in her newfound freedom, enjoying her red wine and the way her black dress makes her feel. The second verse reinforces her desire for independence and excitement, as she proclaims her love for dancing, yelling, and live music. She acknowledges the possibility of reconciliation with her partner but is unapologetic about her desire to live life on her own terms.
Overall, "Better In A Black Dress" is a song that celebrates individuality and the courage to break free from societal expectations. It encourages listeners to embrace their true selves and pursue their own path to happiness.
Line by Line Meaning
I left your key,
I ended our relationship and moved on.
I hit the road,
I started a new life without you.
I didn't want to but I had to let you go, oh oh
I didn't want to hurt you, but I had to break up with you.
Whoa oh
Interjection conveying emotions of sadness and regret.
I know you're shocked, I know you're mad,
I understand that you are upset and angry with me.
I know it hurts to know a good thing went so bad, whoa oh
I know it's painful to realize that our relationship ended badly.
Whoa, oh
Interjection conveying emotions of sadness and regret.
And I really do hate that you hate me,
I feel bad that you dislike me now.
I don't need a white veil, I got a black dress,
I don't need a traditional wedding, I prefer a black dress instead.
Don't need a preacher, no no not yet,
I'm not ready for a serious commitment like marriage yet.
Don't have the blues when I've got my red wine.
I don't feel sad when I have a glass of red wine.
Out on the town, or in the city,
Whether I'm in a small town or a big city.
Ain't nothin like the way it fits me,
Nothing else makes me feel as confident and comfortable as my black dress.
So take that gown and lay it down to rest,
Get rid of the traditional wedding dress.
'Cause I'm better in a black dress.
I feel better and more confident in a black dress.
I'm just a girl, I'm not a wife
I'm not ready to settle down into the role of a wife.
I just need a little time to live my life oh, oh
I need some time to enjoy my life and make my own choices.
Whoa oh
Interjection conveying emotions of sadness and regret.
I wanna dance, I wanna yell,
I want to have fun and let loose.
I wanna band, I don't want no wedding bells, whoa oh
I want to enjoy music and have a good time, instead of getting married.
whoa, oh
Interjection conveying emotions of sadness and regret.
And maybe one day you'll forgive me, (And maybe one day you)
Perhaps in the future, you will be able to forgive me for hurting you.
I'm better in a black dress, call me a hot mess
I may be seen as unconventional or messy, but I feel great in my black dress.
I feel so good, ooh I gotta confess
I feel amazing and I want to share my happiness.
I like the way it feels in cowboy boots or heels
I feel great in any footwear when I'm wearing my black dress.
So listen up, baby here's the deal
Pay attention, here's what I have to say.
I'm better in a black dress
I feel better and more confident in a black dress.
Lyrics © Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: KATIE ARMIGER, BLAIR DALY
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
Teddy The Springer
I wish she was on Spotify 😭
Wendi Cutler
Love this Song!!! Just saw her on HLN...LOVE!!!! Beautiful voice!
Matthew Talbert
I hope a major label will sign katie. ..she is so talented!
Savannah Hill
This song makes me feel better because when someone hurts my feelings I want to wear a black dress.
Donna Crisanti
great talent her and Miranda would make a great song together
Rodger Jachim
I'm chording it out now.
I can't begun to descibe how much I love this song. Very pistol annies.
Matthew Morley
I love this song
DENNIS LISACK
Great song sounds great to listen too
KAELYN LOPEZ
Why is this not on Apple Music?
Alyssa Hernandez
KAELYN LOPEZ no idea was looking for it too... maybe she isn’t signed? Not too sure.