After gunshots and zombie growls, Emily Kinney is the go-to sound for hit AMC show The Walking Dead, which returns for its fifth season on Oct. 12. Her character Beth Greene is known for her sweet singing, but in real life, Kinney, 29, is also a pop-folk singer who has dropped two EPs.
How did you get your start in music?
When I moved to New York from Nebraska, I pursued acting, but I was also singing backup in bands and hanging out at [Brooklyn venue] Pete’s Candy Store all the time. (Laughs.)
How did your singing become such a big part of the show?
When I auditioned, it wasn’t a part of the character. But they were looking for more sensitive moments, and they knew I could sing. Some of the writers came to my shows.
Beth seemed to be kidnapped last season. What can we expect to happen to her?
You’ll find out where she is — I can’t tell! Music is part of her, so you will see that come through.
So, what kind of music do zombies listen to?
Michael Jackson, Prince…Any dance music. They need it to keep their spirits up!