Interview with KYTLY

Nov 29, 2022

What got you into music, and if you had not gotten into music what would you be doing today?

I think the idea of making music was ingrained at an early age- the environment I grew up in and the proximity I had to working professionals in the arts- the idea of being an artist was rather concrete and music just became part of my language.
I spent most of my childhood staying with my grandparents whom were patrons of the arts- Grandma (Nina) trained at the bristol conservatory her father was a conductor she was a professional harpist, grandpa came from a family of playwrights - so I was privy to many a conversation of dramaturgy, classical and jazz music.
But later there, before I immigrated to Canada -I spent most of my time at my best friend’s house whose mother was a modern dancer, single mom, and just super cool. In retrospect those years were hugely influential- before I was even a teenager I remember going to concerts with them to see her uncle Len, he was the songwriter with the Brit band Skunk Anansie. Being part of their family was such a different experience than my own home environment.
What would I be doing if I didn’t make music? I think I’m doing it already! I balance being a mother with music and a career in the art department of tv and film - throughout the making of this album I worked on three TV movies as a Production Designer with the incredible Directors, Sharon Lewis and Virginia Abramovitch, and three TV series as a Decorator and Buyer ( The boys, Horror of Dolores Roach, Good sam )

What do you like to do when you are not playing music and how does that influence your creativity?

I like to Paddleboard, yoga, and do High Intense Workout training! When my body feels strong I’m more focused and determined in my work. I also take care of lavender plants- I have a little plot of land in the countryside where I go to write and I’m slowly developing it into a British/french styled oasis! Last year my old friend from high school, who is now an apiarist added five Bee hives so I have honey and Lavender- it’s quite divine.

How long have you been making music?

If playing a shitty guitar at the age of 14 at school poetry reading counts I’d say at least 20 years! But for real I started trying out my own material on stages at the age of 21.

Where are you based and how did that influence your music?

I'm currently based out of Hamilton. I was in Toronto for many many years prior. Here in Hamilton, there’s this energy you can tap into - the duality of city life and country life - there’s more space- more sky, more opportunities to be immersed within trails, forests at lakes-that is with Hamilton being within the green belt region. Nature gives us the quiet Time to reflect in our
own thoughts whilst the city offers the playground for experience and human connection.

Tell me about your most memorable shows, if you haven’t played live what is your vision for a live show?

My most memorable show was on a side stage at Kensington market. It was this cool “day festival” event with The Tragically Hip playing at the main stage.
Smaller bands ( I was playing in The Caraways) played three to four songs in between the hips” longer sets…
My set list for the show was very upbeat and electric- The energy was incredible and seeing Gord Downie walk over and watch my set from the sidewalk was just electrifying.

It was a memorable day.

What is your favorite venue to play at, and do you have any places you want to play that you have not already?

As I think about spring and the album release I know I would love to be in England. In London-Camden …Paris and New York.

If you could play any show with any lineup, who would be on the ticket?

What is some advice that you would give to someone who is just getting into making music and some advice that you would give to your younger self?

Find a family of people that encourage you and respect you - have strength, learn, study, and FEEL always face adversity head-on.

Of your songs which one means the most to you and why?

Undercovers. I wrote it after a very special night with a special person amidst the apocalyptic outlook of the lockdown.

Which songs are your favorite to play and which get requested the most?

So far I’ve only released “Begin Again” from the upcoming album but I’m anticipating my next single release “Not the jealous type “ will be a favourite.

What is your creative process, and what inspires you to write your music?

It’s usually triggered by endings- strong feelings, connections, relationships, or events... I can’t force myself to write.. which is actually really frustrating as there are so many prolific songwriters that can - however when I’m ready I do have an incredible flow -which generally
means I need solace- which as a mother and a filmmaker is very challenging and variably frustrating. Having good friends nearby, family help, and an active co-parent are blessings.

Do you have messages that you like to get across in your music, if so please tell me about them?

What are your plans for the future, and do you have anything that you want to spotlight that is coming up?

I will be dropping the full album in early spring and sharing upcoming shows to support the release… but… I’m also working with some fabulous people in Hamilton on a benefit show for the women’s shelter- I will announce info and dates early in the new year on my socials and website.

How can your fans best keep up to date with you, any socials you want people to check out?

Yes please follow me @kytlycreative and on my linktree website https://linktr.ee/kytly