Coast to coast Hidden Beats has you covered. Our latest Spotlight – Kellie Loder is sure to get you going. A multi-genre Maritime marvel, Kellie is a Juno nominated singer-songwriter. Kellie’s latest single Molded Like a Monster is by and far what the world needs, positivity and inspiration. We sit down with Kellie and find out where she has been and where she is heading.
You got your start in music when you were 16 with a tragic backstory, the loss of your cousin. Do you believe that being tested like that is what made you such a strong and passionate artist?
I think it certainly had a part to play. I’ve always been able to use music to get out the truest expression of what I’m feeling.
You have garnered multiple accolades from both the Christian music scene all the way up to the JUNOS. What are some of your favorite memories of attending the awards circuits?
When I went to the JUNOS, I took my parents. Watching their faces of disbelief as they walked down the red carpet was a highlight for sure. I also got to play hockey in the Juno Cup game between the Juno Nominees and retired NHL Players. That was pretty memorable.
You were extraordinarily successful in the Christian music scene for many years before pivoting into a more mainstream path, what was the deciding factor?
I was extremely limited as to what I could write about as a Christian artist. I needed to branch out in order to stay true to myself as an artist and a person.
In 2018, you released the album Benefit of the Doubt, which was critically adored, was it polarizing for your fans to see you in a newer, more commercial light?
I feel like my fan base grew exponentially after that album came out because I was now reaching people that weren’t necessarily church-goers. I was becoming more accessible. It was a huge turning point for me. I think the most important thing was that the time had come to transition, and the result was me feeling fulfilled about the art I was putting into the world.
Your song “Hate Loves Hate” was inspired by the good Samaritan actions of a teenage girl, and how her jumping in to defend an innocent man stuck with you. As an artist you can reach multitudes. Given the world we live in, how inspiring is it to know that you are leaving behind a legacy of positivity?
It was actually a guilty man. If I knew I wasn’t making a difference in some way, I don’t think I would even try to pursue this career on a professional level. It’s pretty nice knowing that I’ll be leaving songs like this behind.
Similarly, the track “Falling Out of Love” is about that one great love we all have in our lives that never leaves you. Is that person aware of the impact they had on your life? What are some words of encouragement you would like to give to someone still processing that great love?
I think they know, though I’ve never told them they were the inspiration to the song. Some words of encouragement would be this: There’s no greater moment more telling of your growth than the one when you no longer accept less than what you deserve. I wrote that idea down last night. If it didn’t work out, there’s probably a reason. Don’t hang on too tightly to things the universe didn’t want you to have. Life feels too heavy when we do that. You deserve the best.
Something most people would not associate you with was your brief but prolific flirtation with hockey. What was it like playing in the JUNO cup? You would have been only what, 24?
Yep I was 24. Playing in the JUNO cup was so exciting and also hilarious. I met so many great people and artists that I never thought I’d get to have that sort of encounter with. Memories were made that day.
2019 was a pivotal year, where you wrote the song “Fearless” for the movie Superpower Dogs, an IMAX documentary narrated by Chris Evans. What was it like writing that? And did you know the legacy it would have?
I actually was riding in a passenger’s seat in a car while the driver was on a phone call and discussing that he needed a song for a film trailer. I had no idea it was for IMAX or that Chris Evans was involved. Nevertheless, I saw the opportunity and offered to write a song. The production team ended up loving it and ultimately chose it for the production. Writing it was effortless. It was written in an hour and a half. I think I knew what they wanted so it was easier to deliver.
Your latest single “Molded Like a Monster” was inspired by the darkness of child soldiers, and specifically while watching the movie American Sniper. How difficult was it writing such a powerful and evocative song?
Surprisingly, it wasn’t difficult at all. I knew exactly what I wanted to say.
The video for it is just spectacular. You worked with Ashlea Wessel on it. How did you two connect?
Ashlea had written a video treatment for a song a couple years ago when she worked with a company called THE FIELD. I went looking for it when I found out the video was going to finally get supported by a grant, asked her to meet me for coffee, and the rest is history.
During the quarantine, you also released the track “Afterglow” with the help of long-time friend/roommate/producer Daniel Adams, can we expect any other surprises (not that 2020 needs more)?
Absolutely. Releasing new music this year is where a lot of my focus is.
You were supposed to tour with contemporary Canadian icon Joel Plaskett this year, will we still get to see that headline? What are some locales you are especially looking forward to playing again?
It looks like the tour is getting rescheduled. Apart from that, I’m looking forward to playing the Burdock again in Toronto. It’s a great venue.
You are a proud Newfoundlander, from Badger. What are some local hotspots you want to give a shout out to?
Let’s say The Rocket Room Bakery and the St. John’s Farmer’s Market.
What would you like to say to your fans?
I miss you.
Our Spotlight – Kellie Loder is in the books.
We want to thank her for taking the time to chat with us. Make sure you check out all of Kellie’s upcoming music on her website and on all streaming platforms.
Check out Molded Like a Monster now!
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