My fellow Leo Kelsy Karter is a New Zealand artist that now resides in the glorious city of Los Angeles. A city that certainly allows anybody to explore themselves and release the magic within and Kelsy has certainly made waves since moving there. One had the opportunity to interview Kelsy exploring everything from the beginnings of her craft to what 2023 holds for her and The Heroines.
How have you got to where you are Kelsy, tell us your life journey?
I consider myself a pirate of sorts. Taking after my dad who never liked to stay in one place too long, I’ve lived in many different places. I wanted to join the circus as a kid and dreamt of being an actor and a director. I actually never thought I’d be a singer but as a theatre kid I had to sing, and when people tell you’re good at something enough times, you start to believe it. So while making a million mistakes along the way, I wrote some songs, started a band and became a rockstar.
How has being born into a family of jazz musicians influenced your music style?
I think I had one singing lesson my whole life. but I was never very good at learning when someone told me to do it. So after my dad introduced me to jazz and soul music, I learned how to sing by listening to that on my own. It definitely helped me discover my voice. It still influences my music today but more so the way I sing.
How do you stay true to yourself when creating your songs?
I don’t write anything for myself that isn’t autobiographical. My songs that have affected people the most have been my most honest ones. So I wouldn’t say it’s hard to stay true to myself but sometimes it can be stressful digging into your emotions and being vulnerable, especially when working with someone new who doesn’t know you.
Some may say competition but we don’t, what does your community mean to you?
Well, we are all a bunch of freaks. I told you earlier that I always wanted to join the circus, and I believe I did that by becoming an entertainer. This is just one big circus and we’re all just a bunch of clowns.
What inspired you when writing your new cover album and what can you tell us about your new album?
My new album is sexier than anything I’ve done before. It’s electric, theatrical and emotional too. I’m so inspired by so many of the big 80’s voices and I wanted to bring inspiration from that era into today. I like to say that you know it already but you’ve never heard it before.
Can you talk about the creative process behind the track “Cover You?”
I wrote this song with my best mates and my boyfriend. We started it in Palm Springs a little week away then finished it in Los Angeles. We wanted a song that sat on the fence of sexy and cheesy. It’s essentially a song about touching yourself to the thought of someone you just met. We made each chorus have completely different production so there was something for everyone.
You’re well known for your rebellious attitude, what advice if any would you give to your younger self if you had the opportunity?
I’ve never been the prettiest, smartest or most talented in any room, but I have always been the one with the most nerve. Now while I am proud of that, I wish I knew how to slow down sometimes. Patience, kels.
Your 2023 tour kicks off in the UK before heading to the US, what can your UK fans expect from you?
The band and I are in rehearsals creating a whole new show at the moment. This new album is a lot more complex and musical than my previous album so we are taking our time getting it right. These songs are big and we want this new show to feel like we’re playing an arena, no matter how big or small of an audience we are actually playing to.
What does your typical day look like?
No matter if I’m on or off tour, every day starts with coffee, some kisses, and a text to me mum & dad. Then who knows what the circus has planned for the day.
Bonus Question – If music did not find you, what job would be ideal for you instead?
Hmmm, if I wasn’t an entertainer I’d love to be a race car driver, a professional poker player or a chef.
To finish with what is one message you would like to give to your fans?
Be kind but take no shit 😉
Follow Kelsy Karter
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Quote of the day – It’s time to reflect, acknowledge your feelings and finetune your intuition. The world is your oyster and you don’t need to stay in one place, live life to the fullest and when in doubt, just embrace it!
#Kelsy.Q&A.Cover You
Connor Mantle
Young entrepreneur and freelance model. Founder of the AW20 Hope & Glory Fashion show, with interests in mythology, spiritualism and astrology among many others. One can be contacted via Instagram @Connormantle
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