Talking to: Kezia Gill
© Dickon Clark
With a big blues voice, a rock star energy on stage and a style that combines country and Irish folk music, Derby-based singer/songwriter Kezia Gill has transcended the narrow confines of musical genres to hone a sound that is truly inimitable. Although Kezia may appear to be an overnight sensation, winning several awards since the release of her self-titled debut album in 2018, she spent 10 years writing and performing, and developing her own unique style, before she found mainstream success.
Following Kezia, Kezia Gill has released three further EPs – Dead Ends and Detours in 2019, the aptly titled Best Worst Year in 2020, and The Mess I Made in 2021. She has also become a YouTube sensation, toured internationally, hit the top spot on the official iTunes chart, and generated a mental health campaign with her single, I’m Here, even spawning a hashtag - #IMHERE. Despite these achievements, Kezia Gill is still humble, and keenly aware of her musical and familial roots – her father Eddie and grandfather Eamonn were both respected musicians, and her own music pays tribute to her English and Irish heritage, and a myriad of musical influences.
Ahead of her coverage of Black Deer Festival 2022, at which Kezia is performing, long term writer Michelle Peet couldn’t wait to interview Kezia to find out more about her background, inspirations, and upcoming performances, and, with characteristic candour, she did not disappoint.
What was the music scene like growing up in the Midlands? Was music a big part of your life growing up?
Music was my life growing up! With my dad being a professional singer, music was always around. We’d go to his gigs sometimes and he’d even invite me up on stage to join him. Derby had a good open mic scene when I was in my teens, so I often went to those to practice my new material.
Your father Eddie was a professional musician. Did you ever perform together?
My dad and I performed together as often as we could. He used to call me up on stage, starting when I was 5 or 6 years old, and he continued to do so until his retirement in his mid-sixties. I also often had dad join me on stage at my shows. There was always something so magical about performing with him.
Who are your other heroes and musical influences?
Patsy Cline was the first voice I fell in love with. I learnt so much about singing from her. Johnny Cash was another favourite of mine. I loved how he told stories. Freddie Mercury and Tina Turner inspire me as live performers, they’re incredible.
You’ve won several awards in recent years, including ‘Best Female Artist’ at the British Country Music Association (BCMA) Awards, ‘Female Vocalist of the Year’ at the Cross Country Nam (CCN) Awards and ‘Best Album’ for The Mess I Made at the BCMA Awards. Which award were you most proud to receive?
I’m proud of all of them. I made The Mess I Made during lockdown, whilst grieving for my dad, and not having the most confidence it would do well, so winning Best Album for that EP was a proud moment.
What has been your career highlight so far?
This is a tough one! I’d say singing at The London Palladium, opening for The Shires on their UK tour.
You’ve recently been signed by Paradigm. How does it feel to be represented by the same global talent agency as Leann Rimes and Lewis Capaldi?
Pretty amazing. I recently visited their offices in London, and it blew me away! These guys are the real deal. I just hope I can deliver for them.
Tell me about your most recent EP The Mess I Made, which was released in June 2021.
After spending 2020 in lockdown, grieving the loss of my father, and losing all normality, I suffered with writers’ block. I wanted 2021 to be different. I threw myself into songwriting and poured my heart into the EP. It was hard work, many a tear was shed, but I’m so proud of it now.
What experiences and ideas shaped it?
I always draw on personal experiences. It’s an EP of two halves; Mess I Made, All of Me and Bad for Me are songs about self-doubt, self-development, and learning from your mistakes, whereas Live It Up, Country Song and Adventures of a Travelling Mind are upbeat songs about dreaming, good times and living your best life.
Do you have a standout track on The Mess I Made that you are particularly proud of?
All of Me got me my first UK number 1 on the iTunes chart, so I’m pretty proud of that one.
Who have you loved working with the most in your career so far?
Having just finished touring with them, I’d have to say Ben and Crissie from The Shires. They are the most wonderful people and are so talented.
The video of you jamming at London St Pancras Station with Dr K (Brendan Kavanagh) has over half a million views on YouTube. How did it feel to go viral?
It felt strange. Nothing actually changes in your day-to-day life, but suddenly you’re getting messages from people all over the world telling you how much they enjoy your singing. It’s crazy!
Do you have a favourite live gig highlight?
You can’t beat it when people sing your own songs back to you. That’s pretty special.
What other music are you enjoying at the moment?
I actually listen to all kinds of music, but right now I’m really into soul music. Otis Redding, Tina Turner and Aretha Franklin are often blaring out of my speakers.
You are currently midway through touring and are performing at several festivals this summer. Which festival/s are you most excited about?
I have wanted to play Black Deer Festival for years, so I’m super excited to finally be making that happen.
Who are you most looking forward to seeing on the line up at Black Deer?
I’m a huge Cam fan. I’ve seen her live twice, and I’ll certainly be catching her set at Black Deer. More importantly, I will be sharing the stage with her for a writers’ round. I don’t know how I’m going to keep my composure.
Are you working on any new music at the moment? What is next for you after your live shows this summer?
I’m always working on new music. I have some exciting announcements coming out very soon, so follow me on my socials to see what I’m up to.
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