Austin teenager’s song hits 42 on iTunes charts
Published 3:48 pm Saturday, May 17, 2014
Austin’s Molly Kate Kestner is in the company of Katy Perry, Coldplay and Michael Jackson.
Molly Kate Kestner records all her songs on a piano in the Kestner family music room. – Trey Mewes/Albert Lea Tribune
The Austin High School senior’s song “His Daughter” hit No. 42 on iTunes Friday, meaning Kestner shared the stage with some of the biggest names in pop music.
It’s the latest in Kestner’s saga that started when she recorded and posted “His Daughter” to YouTube April 20. The track was viewed more than 850,000 times within the first two weeks. It’s now been viewed more than 6.8 million times.
After the song went viral and attracted local and national media attention, Kesnter recorded the song for iTunes. It’s available for $1.29, along with an acoustic version for the same price.
On Tuesday, Kestner made her national television debut as she appeared on ABC’s “World News With Diane Sawyer.” ABC News called Kestner a “Cinderella still in the middle of her dance” and a “new sensation.”
She also performed on “Good Morning America” Wednesday.
Despite her newfound fame, Kestner recently told the Herald she’s taking things slow as various offers roll in. She’s still set to attend North Central this fall.
“I’m still trying to focus on my senior year,” Kestner said.
iTunes charts for top songs
(As of Friday night)
39. “Midnight” by Coldplay
40. “The Man” by Aloe Blacc
41. “Chandelier” by Sia
42. “His Daughter” by Molly Kate Kestner
43. “Birthday” by Katy Perry
44. “Drunk On a Plane” by Dierks Bently
45. “Love Never Felt So Good” by Michael Jackson
