Amanda Keeles “Feels The Same Way Too” In New Single
Canadian Country Singer-Songwriter Amanda Keeles has unveiled her powerhouse second single, “My Heart Feels the Same Way Too.” The London, Ontario artist, and two-time winner of the Canadian Open Country Songwriting Contest, takes her award-winning song to new heights in collaboration with multi-talented CCMA-nominated producer Johnny Gasparic. Her heartfelt lyrics describe a story of a husband and wife’s inability to express their feelings regarding their struggling relationship. When in fact, they are feeling the same.
Recorded at MCC Studios in Calgary, Alberta (CCMA studio of the year for 2021 & 2023), she is joined by Juno and CCMA award-winning bass player Chris Byrnes of The Road Hammers, Juno Award winner Joey McIntyre on drums and CCMA nominated Keith Floen on keys as well as CMAB Nominated Therry Lawson (The Travelling Mabels) on harmony.
Watch the video for “My Heart Feels The Same Way Too” below and learn more about Amanda Keeles via our mini-interview.
First off, care to introduce yourself to our readers?
My name is Amanda Keeles! I have been singing and writing music since I was around 13. I had a strong influence from an early age with my mother, herself being a talented songwriter and musician, and always encouraging my brothers and I to express ourselves through music. Growing up, I entered countless singing competitions and songwriting contests which allowed me to grow and fueled my passion for performing. Last year, I started recording the songs I have written and will be releasing several throughout the year across Canadian Country radio and all streaming sites. I also look forward to seeing everyone live in the next two months at some upcoming shows! Stay tuned!
You’ve unveiled your single, “My Heart Feels The Same Way Too.” What can you tell us about the writing process behind the release?
This song was one of the two songs that I had sang and performed at the Canadian Open Singing/ Songwriting Contest. I was lucky enough to win twice for each song! The first song was released earlier this year and has had great radio play and streaming numbers which I am very grateful for. Even though my songs will always have a country feel, the creativity in the songs I write began early on, and I think inspired by often listening to Canadian songwriter Jann Arden. Her lyrics and ability to find emotional connections in her songs made me start digging deeper into the meaning of my own songs. The idea of the song came to me based on a couple I knew who were going through a challenging time in their marriage. I always felt that communication was the reason for the breakdown. But deep down, they were both feeling the same way. This song tells that story.
You worked with CCMA-nominated producer Johnny Gasparic on the single. How was that experience?
I cannot say enough about Johnny. We were introduced when I recorded out at MCC Studios in Calgary. His talent far extends his producer/ engineer abilities. He plays multiple instruments and adds his guitar solo to the song, which I love! He has been nominated for several CCMAs, Western Canadian Music Awards winner for Engineer of the Year as well as nominated for two Grammy awards. His remarkable versatility has given him opportunities to work with Snoop Dogg to Gord Bamford. I am very fortunate to have Johnny producing this song in the studio that has won CCMA Studio of the Year for the last two years. He brought my acoustic demo to life and transformed it into a powerhouse ballad.
What is your favourite thing about being a musician in London, Ontario?
There are a large number of very talented musicians in London! Huge country fans! Some of the biggest names in Country music to the Forest City as sold-out venues are the norm. London is well known for their music education, production, and engineering. The city has hosted the Junos and the CCMAs twice and was recently named UNESCO City of Music. There is a good musician network and venues galore.
What’s up next for you in 2023?
This release will have a big push after my debut single, “Blame It on the Moonlight,” earlier this year. I will do radio station visits and interviews and build up my presence as a new emerging artist. I am back in the studio recording three more originals to be released throughout the year. I will be performing live shows starting in early summer, which I am really looking forward to! Dates will be finalized shortly. It’s going to be a busy year ahead!