One thing Canadian music fans have been especially grateful for throughout lockdown is new music, including a brand-new single from Manitoba’s Kendra Kay. Though written before the world went quiet, “Steady” makes the listener extra grateful for the people who stick around and support them, no matter what; friends, family, frontline workers, and all.
The new country music coming out while everyone’s holed up at home has all been extra uplifting, including your new single “Steady”. Who and/or what has helped keep you feeling steady through isolation?
I am very lucky to have such a supportive family; they keep me steady no matter what is going on. My mom and dad are truly my rocks and, without them, I wouldn’t be as strong of a person as I am today. My boyfriend is another person who always can keep me grounded. We live out on the ranch and (as much as I’m sure he is glad to have my set of hands at home to help around the farm this spring) he’s always here to keep me inspired and keeps me pushing forward towards my dreams.
Having performed at some of the biggest country music festivals including CCMA Country Music Week, Dauphin’s Countryfest, and Sunfest, where do you still aspire to perform?
I have many “bucket list” shows left on my list, but some that definitely stand out to me are the Calgary Stampede, Boots and Hearts and one day would love to be a performer on the actual award stage at the CCMA’s.
What do you think stood out to people to make you a top ten finalist in the 2020 CBC searchlight competition?
I think it’s the positive fun message that my song “How It’s Done” has. It’s all about living your best life and living like there’s no tomorrow. We were able to portray that through the music video and I think the song and video together just made people genuinely feel good.
What have been the best ways you’ve kept yourself positive and busy over the past few months?
I have been spending a lot of time out riding my horses and checking the cows. That is one of the best ways I know how to keep busy. I enjoy every minute of being out on the farm and it’s always been something that can just make any day better for me. I also have been doing a lot of Zoom/Facetime co-writes! A great thing about the world we live in today is how easy it is to connect with someone without having to actually be in a room with them, so this has been a great time to sit down and write some songs!
What do you hope to see happen in your career over the next six months?
I hope to be able to get back on stage and perform! But regardless, I just hope to keep pushing forward and making the baby steps in the right direction. I hope to see my new single Steady keep reaching new listeners and to keep creating new fans!