With an amalgamation of genres from Americana to Brit-pop warming her heart from the start, there was never a moment in which KIER could fit here or there, “I’m not a fan of boxing myself in; like a cat curled up in its favourite box, it’s just not me,” KIER added, “Despite the strong influence of country and Americana on my music, I passionately believe the other genres I’ve grown up listening to also add unique layers to my songwriting. That’s why I love referring to my music as “y’allternative,” as it perfectly encapsulates the blend of influences in my music.” 

All of that said, KIER is approaching the next chapter of life with the release of her debut, ‘Welcome to the Strange Life,’ out on all major music and streaming platforms on September 8th. We talked about the record, main characters, and more but started it all off with a little landslide…

Kendra: A few years ago you dropped a cover of Fleetwood Mac’s “Landslide,” which, very well done. It’s one of those songs that is highly popular to cover, but not everyone can do it justice. You definitely did though. With that, were there any other songs of theirs you thought of putting your touch on before you landed on “Landslide?” 

KIER: Thank you, I always forget about that one! We recorded our cover of “Landslide” at home during lockdown, utilizing all the limited resources we had then. We made the video for a men’s mental health awareness page. We aimed to draw attention to their page and inspire men to open up about their mental well-being.

However, given the numerous requests we received for that song, we finally decided to upload it for everyone. People consistently liken me to Stevie Nicks. I take that as a MEGA compliment every time since I genuinely adore her voice. “Landslide” had been asked for a number of times, and it inevitably turned out to be our first choice. That’s not to say we don’t love playing almost all of Fleetwood Mac’s songs!

Kendra: Now you’ve got an album of originals coming in September via ‘Welcome to the Strange Life.” If Hollywood were to create a TV show based on this album, other than strange – what sort of life do you feel the main character would have in it?

KIER: What a great question! This album is a reflection of my life and experiences over the past 4-5 years. It draws heavily from the joys and sorrows of life, and everything else that falls in between. The show’s theme, I reckon, would revolve around these real-life experiences making it super easy to connect with. It would highlight how joy can often be found in the simplest things, and that intense pain can eventually lead to immense happiness. Their life, much like a rollercoaster, would be fun, emotional, and thoroughly captivating to watch!

Kendra: Again, we’re going to get a bunch of new songs, including “Gypsies Castles.” This song feels like one that many can relate to with the idea of overthinking and never really being in the moment. I feel like that definitely has to do with the rise of the internet and how much it’s caused us to not really be present. Do you think that if the internet suddenly went down tomorrow, that people would lose it?

KIER: The internet can be an intimidating place and at times, it could be challenging to break free from it. Nowadays, the distinction between reality and the virtual world is blurred. As much as I would prefer to stay away from the internet if I didn’t need it, it proves to be quite effective for networking and advertising. However, I’ve also been caught in its harmful side, which I’m sure everyone has at some point.

We often seem to be more active online than in our actual lives, which can make us feel detached from the real world. That’s one reason why I’m a big fan of performing and watching live music. It lets you be in the moment and appreciate genuine experiences. While the internet has deeply infiltrated our lives, helping many stay employed, it’s crucial to strike a balance. 

Surely, without it, a lot of us would feel aimless, maybe even jobless. So the answer is MORE LIVE MUSIC!

Kendra: That song feels like one that’s going to make you sit and think, while “Never Be Me” has this bar anthem vibe. Was this one inspired by a real-life relationship gone sour or are you just that imaginative?

KIER: For sure, I’m glad my intention showed! “Never Be Me” was written with a clear goal, to offer a heartbreak anthem for those who’ve suffered. Many of my tracks draw upon my personal life, sometimes entirely, other times only to an extent.

Being on the receiving end of heartbreak and feelings of worthlessness is something I can relate to. I wanted to write a song that reassures people they’re more than just a complicated relationship. Self-love isn’t easy, especially if you’ve felt unloved. I believe many of us struggle with it at intervals.

So, yeah, parts of the song stem from my own experiences, while other parts are written to help listeners feel a little more appreciated and loved.

Kendra: Now it’s time for a side note – with it being September AKA Self Improvement Month, I’m asking everyone to give us a song they like to put on when they are in self-care mode…

KIER: This is the first time I’m hearing about this, and I absolutely love it! It’s so fitting, being on the topic of “self-love.” I’ve been focusing on self-improvement, self-love, and self-care; because in order to give the best of yourself to others, you first need to be the best version of yourself. The list of songs that I love would be too long to write down!

Even though it’s not exactly on theme, a song I adore is “The Millionaire” by Dr. Hook. The lyrics might be far away from self-love, but it always transports me to some of the happiest moments of my life. There’s no way I can feel down when this song is playing, it’s so much fun to blast out loud and sing along to. In fact, that’s true for most songs by Dr. Hook.

Kendra: And lastly, with ‘Welcome to the Strange Life’ out on September 8th, what else do y’all have planned as we head into fall?

KIER: Once the album’s released, my goal is to keep connecting with as many people as possible. I’ll be performing solo and with the band. If anyone reading wants to hear the album live, visit my website for my upcoming gigs.

In the meantime, I’m already deep in the planning phase for the second album. I can’t seem to stay away from it, really. Writing is what keeps me sane so I’ve got a bunch to sift through and get started on.

I’m super eager for everyone to finally have the album and to attend the shows already familiar with the songs. I’ve had the album all to myself for a while and I just can’t wait to share it!