Alicia Kayley: From Orléans to Ottawa Bluesfest - A Rising Star in the Music Scene
Alicia Kayley, a talented singer-songwriter from Orléans, is set to fulfill her dream of performing at Ottawa Bluesfest. Coming from a family of performers, including her father Kevin Chief, also known as Flying Down Thunder, Kayley has always been comfortable on stage. Her upcoming performance at Bluesfest on July 10 is a significant milestone in her career, as she prepares to release her first album this year. The festival, scheduled from July 9-19 at LeBreton Flats Park, boasts a lineup of headliners such as Hardy, Limp Bizkit, and Gwen Stefani.
Being selected to play at Bluesfest is a life-changing opportunity for Kayley, who initially hesitated to apply with only one song under her belt. However, with encouragement from her guitarist, she took the chance and secured a spot at the festival. As one of the few Ottawa-area acts chosen from a pool of over 800 submissions, Kayley is thrilled to share her music with a large audience at a festival she has attended as a fan many times.
Kayley's musical style leans towards R&B, influenced by her diverse musical background and formal vocal training. Graduating from Canterbury High School's specialized vocal program and earning a music degree from Carleton University, she has honed her skills in various genres. Her latest single, "Don't Break My Heart," is a dance track that showcases her powerful vocals and emotional depth. The song is part of an upcoming album recorded in Nashville for a label led by Crystal Shawanda, another Indigenous Canadian artist.
Recognized for her unique voice and musical talent, Kayley has been compared to Adele, a renowned British singer known for her soulful performances. Embracing her Indigenous heritage, Kayley incorporates Algonquin lyrics into her music and aims to inspire Indigenous youth to pursue their dreams. With a growing following, especially among Indigenous communities, Kayley's music resonates with a diverse audience and showcases her cultural pride.
As she prepares for her performance at Ottawa Bluesfest, Kayley is excited to share her music with a wider audience and continue her musical journey. With a blend of R&B, pop, and classical influences, she aspires to follow in the footsteps of groundbreaking artists like Adele while staying true to her Indigenous roots. Stay tuned for the release of her upcoming album and catch her live performance at Bluesfest for a memorable musical experience.