Words by Art Jefferson
Photography by Raul Romo

Kelsy Karter describes herself as a “weirdo”, but to many she is the next talent kicking down the doors of stardom with a musical combination of soul, rock and pop, as well as an intriguingly distinct voice that demands your attention. The absolutely gorgeous Australia-raised singer and musician, whose facial features resemble a younger Angelina Jolie, approaches her craft like a seasoned performer whose presence one certainly won’t forget.

Growing up studying dance, acting and instrumentation throughout her childhood in the Gold Coast, Kelsy Karter eventually relocated to Los Angeles to pursue her music career. After garnishing attention with her 2012 song “The Revolution”, she went on to release her 2013 single “Ghost Town”, produced by The Movement. Karter’s exposure grew even more after performing vocals on Infected Mushroom’s “Now Is Gold”. Her creative and comical dedication tune “Johnny Depp”, released this year displayed her talents as a songwriter.

Currently recording her debut EP “Kiss The Boys”, it’s safe to say that Kelsy Karter is a name and face that you probably should get used to seeing, because you will unquestionably see it a lot.

Art Jefferson – You’re from Australia. Tell me a bit about your musical upbringing, because you’re also a multi-instrumentalist and a trained dancer

Kelsy Karter – I was actually born in New Zealand, but grew up in Australia. My dad is from Los Angeles and he, along with his siblings, were all extraordinary musicians growing up, so his influence was a huge part of my start in music. I started playing classical piano when I was 6 then later found a love for the flute. And my mother put me in dance classes at age 3, and I absolutely loved it. Tap has always been my favourite, and musical theatre. I quickly developed a desire to join the circus.

Art Jefferson – Your sound is a combination of soul, pop and even rock. Growing up, who were some of your musical inspirations?

Kelsy Karter – My inspirations were varied. My folks brought me up on Motown, soul and rock and roll – The Beatles, The Temptations, Stevie Wonder. And because I grew up performing in the theatre, I’ve been very inspired by artists like David Bowie. In today’s music my favourite artists are Amy Winehouse and John Newman. I would love to work with him.

Art Jefferson – You left Australia after your school years and moved to Los Angeles. Did you feel that there were simply more opportunities in America opposed to Australia?

Kelsy Karter – I never felt like I really belonged in Australia. Don’t get me wrong, I was a cool kid 😉 but I still felt like an outsider, and I rebelled a lot. When I moved to America I felt like my weirdness could do wonderful things here. I guess you could say I finally joined the circus.

Art Jefferson – Thing seemed to have moved fairly quickly for you after relocating to L.A., would you agree?

Kelsy Karter – Not at all. Ha ha. I’ve been shot down countless times. But I get my little ass back up and keep going…and THAT’S when shit happens. That’s when you really create the magic.

Art Jefferson – You were featured on Infected Mushroom’s track “Now is Gold”. How did that connection come about?

Kelsy Karter – A fan of mine tweeted them a video of me. They emailed and said “you have a really strange voice, we want to work with you.” So we did. They’re wicked talented dudes. They quickly became mates of mine. I can be a bit of a music snob when it comes to today’s music, but working with them gave me a huge respect for DJs. They are real musicians. The good ones are kind of the new rock stars.

Art Jefferson – In 2013, you released your single “Ghost Town”. I know that you’re currently working on new material. What can people expect in terms of sound?

Kelsy Karter – Yes! I’m working on that little ole EP as we speak. It’s going to be banging. It’s a mix of soul, pop, rock and roll…definitely a little haunting at times and crazy instrumentation. I literally cannot wait to share it. My producers are rad dudes, we all just a bunch of kids going for our dreams, and that makes it special.

Art Jefferson – You recorded the song “Johnny Depp” which talks about your infatuation with the actor from the time of your childhood. Considering that Depp is also a musician, if you had the chance to work with him musically, what do you think the outcome would sound like?

Kelsy Karter – Ha ha! Yeah it was originally just a joke. I was messing around on the piano then decided to release it. I would love to work with Johnny. “Edward Scissorhands” is the movie that made me want to be a performer. Ultimately I want to star in a movie with him, and write all the music for the soundtrack. Hell yes. Oh hell yes.

Art Jefferson – Finally, in your opinion what have been some of the most memorable highlights of your career so far?

Kelsy Karter – Shit, everyday there are highlights. I try to feel every single part of it to the fullest. Even if there’s a chance something doesn’t work out, I still let myself get excited about it all, otherwise what’s the point? Working with IM was amazing, releasing my videos and music to the world is always an exciting risk, I love that. Any day I am on a stage is a good day, whether it’s 1 person or 10000 people I’m performing to. And I actually just had a song that I co-produced sold to a big artist (can’t say who), which is epic. Wonder what exciting things will happen today, huh? 😉

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