Dan Kelly Performs at Ottawa’s Dragon Boat Festival on June 22 at 6:05 PM
Dan Kelly is an indie/folk musician from Ottawa, Ontario. His music feels like wandering through a sun-dappled forest, where acoustic guitar echoes blend with whispering winds and rustling leaves. It invites listeners to gather around a campfire under a starry sky, sharing stories of love, loss, and human experience.
Dan has played hundreds of shows, opening for artists like Twin Flames, Billy Raffoul, and Housewife, and touring across numerous provinces. He has self-recorded two EPs, several singles, and a live album. Currently, he performs with a five-piece band, continually evolving his sound.
First off, care to introduce yourself to our readers?
Of course! My name is Dan Kelly. I’m a 30-year-old, indie/folk, singer/songwriter from Ottawa Ontario.
Tell us about your most recent release.
Back in January, I performed a solo show at one of our many great breweries in the city. Overflow Brewing Company. They were kind enough to record the performance. I enjoyed it so much that I felt the need to put it out as a full album.
What excites you most about performing at the Tim Hortons Ottawa Dragon Boat Festival?
I’ve been going to the Dragon Boat Festival since 2016 and every time I’ve gone it’s just been a feeling of bliss. I’ve always left on top of the world. The fact that I get to be a part of the event that makes me feel that way is outstanding. But what excites me the most is the thought of potentially having that impact on others. Just to be a part of an incredible day.
How important is it for you to play at festivals like Tim Hortons Ottawa Dragon Boat Festival, who promote Canadian music exclusively?
It truly means the world to be playing the festival this year. And I think it’s super important to have these events that exclusively promote Canadian music. I’m a big believer in discovering bands before they become super accessible. Seeing them in the smaller venues, being there when your favourite song of theirs first comes out. That feeling of being on their journey of growth is indescribable. An event like Dragon Boat is where it can all begin.
How do you engage with a diverse festival audience, which might include people who are hearing your music for the first time?
Personally, I really look forward to a diverse audience. I feel the best way to engage is to be as genuine as possible. I think people really appreciate that. I think most of us understandably assume that if somebody is at a concert for one band in particular, it means that they are generally set in their ways as far as music taste. While in some cases that may be true, I’m a big believer that people are way more open-minded to a diverse lineup than we think. I say that based on a personal perspective. My music taste varies from folk, metal, rock, hip-hop, top 40, the list goes on.
Are there any other acts or events at the festival that you’re excited to check out?
Absolutely! Emma Lamontagne is a name I’ve been seeing around for a while now. I’ve been meaning to check out a show. Luckily, we are sharing the stage that day! High Waters is another band I’ve heard so much about. We are fortunate to be playing the same day as them as well. I was thrilled to see that The Blue Stones will be headlining the night. I Really I just look forward to experiencing the festival in general.
Last but not least, besides the music portion, what part of the Dragon Boat Festival piques your interest?
I’m going to have to say the vendors. There are two things I love most in this world. Art and good food. When the two come together, it really puts a smile on my face. When adding live music to the list, I can’t help but have a great time.