Los Angeles by way of New Zealand artist KELSY KARTER is back with her latest single, Stick To Your Guns, a fearless anthem that preaches to never give up and always stay true to who you are, a signature that has become a theme in Karter’s music.
The follow up to her latest drop Devil On My Shoulder, Stick To Your Guns sets a different tone that shows off Karter’s vocal range and artistry. We spoke to Karter recently about the story behind the track and what the future looks like for her.
AC: In the studio, do you have a fear you’d like to conquer?
KELSY KARTER – I’m by no means the best writer or musician out there. I think I’m alright but I will never settle for that. I want to be the best and always stay curious.
AC: What about outside of the studio?
KELSY KARTER – No fears, just dreams.
AC: Where does the creation of a song begin for you?
KELSY KARTER – Usually starts with a concept.
AC: What was it like working on this record?
KELSY KARTER – I cried (as I do) for half of the session. But after we got the bones of it, it felt so good to get it all out into song form.
AC: Who do you feel inspired by in the music industry?
KELSY KARTER – David Bowie, The Beatles, James Brown, Harry Styles, The Strokes, Green Day.
AC: What was it like growing up in New Zealand?
KELSY KARTER – I actually spent more time in Australia and America growing up. I adore NZ though. I consider myself a pirate at this point.
AC: As a music artist, what are you still trying to learn?
KELSY KARTER – I’m a very curious person and I never wanna stop trying to step out of the box in all areas of my art. I want to be a better musician, actor, writer, director every time I do it.
AC: Everyone seems to have an app idea at the moment, what’s yours?
KELSY KARTER – That is not my world! [Laughs]
AC: How important is social media to you right now?
KELSY KARTER – I think when you have a platform it’s important to use it. With the state of the world right now, I have the ability to help influence change. And you bet your ass I’m gonna. So that makes it important to me.
AC: Ahead of a gig, do you have any pre-show rituals?
KELSY KARTER – I can’t tell you how many times I’ve peed my pants while performing. I go so crazy on some songs that I literally can’t control it. So before a show, I definitely try to pee as much as I can.
AC: What do you want the world to look like in 10 years?
KELSY KARTER – Tea and biscuits are in every household cupboard by law and equality for ALL.
AC: If you had the chance to put something on billboards worldwide next week, what would it be? Or what would it say?
KELSY KARTER – Be kind and take no shit.
PHOTOGRAPHY: SARAH PARDINI
INTERVIEW: ADAM CROOKES
