Originally from Quebec City, Canada, Kellie-Anne moved to Dubai when she was six-years-old.
Now, at the age of 15, she lives in New York City and is making waves in the music industry with her unique blend of pop, soul, and electro-pop. Her latest music video, "Unlived Dreams," reveals her stunning musical virtuosity.
Pop Dust sat down with the artist to discover how someone so young has achieved so much in such a short time.
How would you describe yourself?
I am a 15-year old, Canadian singer/songwriter living in NJ. I lived in Dubai for 8 years, before moving to the US in 2017. I am quite tall, very goofy, and I love life. Spending time with my family, playing sports, and cooking are some of my main hobbies, after music of course!
What is the most trouble you've ever gotten into?
That's a good question! Not to toot my own horn, but I don't get in trouble very often. The worst trouble I've ever gotten into was from not cleaning my room and leaving it in a huge mess. Whoops.
What's your favorite song to belt out in the car or the shower?
Definitely "Wrecking Ball" by Miley Cyrus. Ha, ha. Or "All I Want for Christmas Is You," because I love the holidays!
Who is your favorite music artist?
I love to listen to a great variety of artists. However my favorite is Sia! There are just so many amazing aspects to her music and herself as a person. Her style is so unique and her writing ethics are insane!
How did you get started in music? What's the backstory there?
I've always loved music, ever since I can remember. I started singing to my favorite artists when I was 4, but really began performing and competing at the age of 9. I can remember when my grandpa bought me my first ever mini-guitar. I then started taking lessons and accompanying myself by singing. Participating on the "Voice Kids Canada" was definitely a turning point in my career, and confirmed my true passion for music. I've been writing and releasing my own music ever since and have been taking my music very seriously.
What musicians influenced you the most?
Musicians such as Sia, Ed Sheeran, Adele, James Arthur and Birdy are all huge influences on me.
You lived in Dubai for eight years. Did you experience culture shock when you moved to NYC?
Moving to NYC was definitely a culture shock. Living in Dubai was like living in a world of multi-culturalism. I had friends that were from all around the world, with different cultures, speaking different languages and having different traditions. Moving to NYC changed my lifestyle completely, with a new school system, a fast-paced lifestyle and the music business being incredible! But I am surely loving it and am so excited for what is to come.
Does living in NYC help or hinder your creativity?
Living in NYC definitely helps my creativity. It is such a unique city with so much beauty in it! The unique lifestyle, people, scenery and experiences are all great sources of inspiration to me. The amazing people and opportunities I've had here massively help too! And living in Hudson County gives me the stunning city view every morning, which surely doesn't hinder my creativity either.
You recently released "Unlived Dreams." What's the story behind the song?
The story behind "Unlived Dreams" is about living your life to the fullest. The song talks about the beauties of life and how following your dreams, no matter what, is the key to enjoying it to the fullest! I am a huge believer in not letting anyone get in the way of doing what you love the most, therefore this song holds a very special place in my heart.
Your sound merges elements of pop, soul, and electro-pop. What is your song-writing process?
My song writing process usually begins with some source of inspiration from things that are happening around me. I then jot down some lyric ideas, and try out some chord progressions that could go with it. By this point, ideas usually come rushing through my brain and the process goes very quickly!
Most artists like to believe their music is evolving. Is yours? If so, is it becoming more pop-flavored or leaning toward other influences?
I think that my music is evolving. I work hard every day to better myself as a person and an artist, and hope to grow positively. I also love to try out new writing styles and push myself as an artist. I believe that I am leaning towards other influences, and combining different genres together to create something that I am truly proud of, and that signifies me.
Where was "Unlived Dreams" recorded? Are you pleased with how it turned out?
The song was recorded in Nashville and the video in SoHo, NYC! I am beyond pleased with how it turned out, and think that it is just simple, yet meaningful enough, and suits its purpose very well. The story is a great representation of me as an artist.
What's next for you musically? An EP?
I am working hard on writing and releasing more music to make an EP! I am also continuing to perform and develop as an artist.
Will you be doing any touring?
I definitely hope to tour in the near future, however, as I am only 15 and still growing as a person, an artist and a student, balancing all of these things is a challenge. Nonetheless if the opportunity ever comes up, I would surely be up for it.
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Randy Radic is a Left Coast author and writer. Author of numerous true crime books written under the pen-name of John Lee Brook. Former music contributor at Huff Post.
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