Check out our interview with singer-songwriter Keelie Walker who recently released her debut EP “The Girls Night,” co-written by Keelie herself. To bring her EP to life, Keelie worked with world renowned producers Brian “Yung Ladd” Pickens (Lil Wayne, Young Thug, Chris Brown), Lambert “Stereo” Waldrip (Zendaya, Mya), and Xcellence (Kanye West, Wiz Khalifa).
The songstress has already had an impressive career. She kicked it off into high gear as the opening act for Jason Derulo at 14 years old. In 2019, she went on to headline her own school tour in the UK, opened for West Life in Europe, and was the opening act for a sold-out Little Mix European tour.
Follow Keelie @keeliewalker
Hi Keelie, please tell us a little about you?
I’m a very family oriented person. I love to spend time with them and have fun with my friends. They’re all super supportive. I enjoy playing soccer and basically, I love being adventurous. I’m always down for something new.
Describe yourself in 3 words?
Independent
Confident
Kind
We’re sure you have been asked this million times but how did you get in the industry?
I would go to these talent scout events all the time as a kid. It was at one of these events when my parents and I were on our way back to our room. While, in the elevator there was a man in it with us. He was really quiet, so I just started talking to him, asking him who he was and many other questions. I’ve never been shy and was brutally bold and honest. With that being said; little did I know he was a talent scout who gave me a chance at my dreams. Rooster became my manager/mentor and has been ever since I was 10 years old.
Describe your sound in 3 words?
Pop
Real
Unique
Who influenced you and why did you choose to make music?
There are a lot of influences that inspired me to sing and become a performer. I was obsessed with Taylor Swift as a little girl. As I got older, I started listening to Beyonce and Jennifer Lopez. Those are three powerful, hard working women, whom I look up too. I chose music because I’ve always had a passion for it and singing is very therapeutic for me.
Do you play any instrument?
I’ve played around with the guitar, piano, and ukulele. I’ve taken a few guitar lessons.
Do you ever get nervous?
I always get nervous before going on stage. The mixture of my nerves, excitement, along with adrenaline of getting ready to go out there and perform, just make the feelings that much more intense, but in a good way. After, I run on stage and start performing the nervousness go away.
Tell us about your debut EP “The Girls Night?”
The process of this EP was loads of fun. It’s my first EP, in which I co-wrote every song. It was a great experience! Each song is real and has its own story to tell. I want to make music people can relate too, as much as I do.
Now tell us story behind the “Nothing Better,” “Runaway,” “Snake,” and “Gemini” songs?
The Inspiration behind “Nothing Better” came from seeing people in love the way it was generations ago. Meaning, when men were gentleman on dates i.e. holding the door open, flowers, etc. Just treating women with respect.
The Inspiration for “Runaway” came from my sister, Trinity. I went to her for ideas on what to write and she advised me to write a positive message for people who are going through hard times during Covid.
The track “Snake” is about someone you thought you could trust and through time you realized they were fake and their persona was all an act.
“Gemini” came from an experience I went through myself with toxicity. It’s about toxic people who have two sided personalities.
Did you had plans/concerts planned and cancelled because of COVID? If so have you done any online concerts or interaction with your fans?
I was in the run up for a couple of tours. One in the UK and one in the US. When Covid happened, tours got canceled and everything dropped. I haven’t done any concerts online. I try my best to interact with fans through going live on Instagram or just posting and responding to comments on social media.
Which project is still on your bucket list?
Working hard to headline a tour of my own and just building my name. I definitely want to be able to perform my own tour at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville TN.
How was opening for Jason Derulo? That’s amazing. Congrats!
Thank you! The experience was incredible I’m super thankful for the time I had. Everyone on the crew was super nice. That being the first big gig I booked; I wouldn’t change it or have it any other way. It was so much fun. I enjoyed singing with the group LZ7.
What is fun and rewarding about what you do? And what’s not?
I get to do what I’ve always loved, getting to travel on tour and meeting new people, who are supportive is amazing. The con side of it is that it’s not always easy to have the strength to keep going. It definitely gets difficult. At those times, where it’s hard; I just have to focus on the big picture and never give up.
What’s next for Keelie Walker in 2021?
My first album release is February 19th on Spotify, iTunes, Tidal and Deezer. Next month, I’ll begin working on my second album, more collabs, and hopefully getting back out on tour.
What is your favorite song? And why?
I don’t have a favorite, there’s so many songs I love to listen to, but anything with Beyoncé throwbacks, Justin Bieber, Britney Spears, JLo and Taylor Swift are always a must.
Any loves other than music?
I’ve always loved dancing, acting and drawing. I love sports! My favorite is soccer and I love to just work out in general.
If you could meet someone living or dead, who would it be and why?
Elvis Presley, of course! I feel like he would be really cool to hang out with and would have lots of wisdom to share. All in all he seems like he’d be a really funny person. He’s the king of rock n roll!
Best advice ever given?
My mom always tells me “never stick your foot in the fire, if you don’t want to get burned, not even your big toe.” Meaning, don’t put yourself in a bad position to where it’ll cause you to get in trouble. It teaches you to always think before you act.
How’s a typical day in your life?
It’s filled with school, chores, working on soccer, vocals and dance.
Name one your strengths?
I’m strong in being independent, I’m always honest about what I have to say.
Idea of a perfect Sunday?
On Sundays my family and I go to church, when we can. After, church we go out to eat and spend the rest of the day, just chillin.
What is your favorite song to belt out in the car/for karaoke?
My mom, sister and I have always jammed out to “Splish Splash” by Bobby Darin, ever since my sister and I were little.
What is your own definition of happiness?
Doing what you love and what makes you happy, regardless of how anybody else feels about what you choose. As long as you follow your passion and what makes you happy, then that’s all that matters. I definitely feel like the key is to surround yourself with supportive people who love and inspire you.
Do you support any charities?
I support the homeless charities providing food, clothing and shelter. I also support children with illnesses and give to a couple of children in Zimbabwe.
What is your favorite healthy food?
I love baked chicken and salad with fruit on the side, as well as, protein smoothies.
And your favorite cheat food?
Definitely, Chick-fil-A or pepperoni pizza.
What would be a deal breaker on a first date?
Impolite manners and/or bad hygiene. You have to take care of yourself.
How do you see yourself in 5 years?
Headlining my own sold out tours.
How would you describe your fashion style?
Comfy/casual most definitely! Also, sneakers are involved in there.
What do you think of Social Media?
Social media is great because it’s a way to connect to fans, friends, and family. It allows posting and sharing your memories with everyone.
Where we can follow you?
You can find me on Instagram at keeliewalker and TikTok at keeliewalkermusic
Quote: “Birds Of A Feather, Flock Together”
Movie: Parent Trap
Travel Destination: Bora Bora
Sports Team: USA soccer teams
Photo Credit: Sara Kiesling
