Exclusive Interview with Singer-Songwriter Kellie-Anne

Singer-songwriter Kellie-Anne Poirier might only be 15 years old, but she’s looking to make a name for herself in the music industry. She recently released her debut single, “Not The Girl,” an anthem against bullying that empowers people to stand up for and believe in themselves. I got the chance to chat with her about her single, what she learned from her time on The Voice Kids Canada, her YouTube channel and so much more. Keep reading to see what she had to say. 

How old were you when you first took the step into making and performing music? 

I was about 9-years-old when I started performing and really taking music seriously!

You were a contestant on The Voice Kids in Canada. What was the biggest lesson you took away from the competition that still impacts the original music you’re starting to create today?

The Voice Kids Canada was definitely a life-changing experience for me. I learned so many new things about music – from professionals, as well as my competitors, which were more like my lifelong friends. I learned how to really push myself and be more adventurous with my music-style and performance.

Let’s talk a little bit about your new single, “Not The Girl.” What’s the story behind the song?

“Not The Girl” is an anti-bullying song about empowering people to stand up for themselves and to believe in who they really are. It’s about not letting anyone get in your way and pushing through those difficult moments, to turn them into something positive.

What was your songwriting process like for this song in particular? Did you write it by yourself or did you collaborate with other writers?

For most of my songs, I write them from scratch and work with a producer to bring them to life. However, for this song, I worked with an amazing producer to write it and put it up on its feet.

Who are some of your musical influences when it comes to songwriting?

For songwriting and music, in general, I am highly inspired by Sia because of her extremely unique style and amazing vocals. She really does music for the right reasons and succeeds in making it very powerful. I also adore Ed Sheeran and his style of chilled writing. I am highly inspired by his story and way of performing live too!

I have to be honest, I was surprised to read you were just 15-years-old because your voice sounds so much more mature. With that being said, there’s still a long way for you to go in this industry. What are some music industry-related goals or benchmarks that you’re aiming to reach in the next couple of years?

I am definitely aiming to continue songwriting and producing my music. I would love to keep putting it out there and continue performing as much as I can. I am hoping to pursue my music career and hopefully, be successful and unique in the way that I approach it.

You also have a YouTube channel where you post a lot of covers. What goes into choosing which song you record next? Do you pick based on what’s popular, what works best for your musical style, or a combination of things?

For my covers, I consider a combination of things. I often enjoy doing newer hits, as people seem to enjoy those. However, I also love to bring back classics and often pick based on the style that I am feeling that day or an artist that I am loving.

Do you have a favorite cover that you’ve recorded? If so, what is it and why is it your favorite?

Ooh, that is a difficult question. I really enjoy making short Instagram covers. Therefore, my favorite would probably be “You Are The Reason,” as I absolutely adore that song. However, I also love my “Lost Boy” cover because of the studio sound that it has!

Musically, what can people expect from you for the rest of 2018?

People can expect a lot of new music, more performances around the nation in festivals, restaurants etc. and hopefully, many more covers and videos on YouTube!

Last question — we’re called Talk Nerdy With Us because we all have an inner-nerd. What is something, besides music, that you nerd out about?

I adore this question! I nerd [out] about a bunch of things. I adore to cook, play sports, like tennis and volleyball, and to spend time with my friends and loved ones – even though that isn’t really a hobby. I thoroughly love spending time, laughing and talking for endless hours with my loved ones.

You can follow Kellie-Anne on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.