Q: Can you tell us a bit about yourself and how your childhood impacted your musical direction?
I’m a 35 year old country singer songwriter based in Montreal, Quebec by way of Berklee College of Music and Nashville, Tennessee. I lived in Music City for 7 years before returning back to my home base in Montreal. I loved growing up in Montreal– I was exposed to so much art, culture and music. In my childhood, music was also a big part of my family life; my parents listened to music in the house non-stop. (we had a radio in the kitchen that was always on, every car ride filled with sing alongs, karaoke nights and dance nights) When we had family get together’s there was also always a guitar – My grandmother was from County Donegal, Ireland and we would sing a fair share of Irish tunes for her. Being surrounded by music, I naturally wanted to learn how to play. I took piano lessons at 7 years old and began writing songs on my piano. My parents were very supportive and always advocated for us to “do what you love” which is really what gave me the confidence to pursue music in the long run.
Q: How are you planning on growing your fan base and sharing your music with the world? What message do you have for anyone who is about to discover “Brittany Kennell”?
I plan on growing my fan base by staying true to who I am and not changing for any one – I’ve chosen to take the long road and not the fast track so I hope to earn true fans one by one by connecting over shared life experiences through song. I plan to keep releasing songs, touring and creating art that people can connect with. For anyone about to discover my music, know that I’m a songwriter at heart – I love pairing a good story with a strong melody, sharing true life experiences that hopefully they can relate to.
Q: How does Pink Collar – Deluxe Edition differ from the original release of Pink Collar in terms of themes and sound?
A) The deluxe offers two new songs “All Hat” and “Good Man” both which were originally on the original release. However, between the time of recording and releasing I wrote a few more songs that I felt really glued the album together. I still wanted to use these two songs in a special way and thought a deluxe vinyl would be a great way to do that! Sonically, they are very similar to the rest of the record, as they were tracked at the same time – I call them the little cherry on top!
Q: Can you tell us more about the story behind “All Hat” and how the theme of resilience and true love emerged in the song?
I wrote “All Hat” after I was ghosted one too many times. My initial gut feeling of this person was right and I was proud of myself for not getting too hung up on this blip on the map. If anything, it showed me that I was really starting to learn how to read people and their actions. In the song I wanted to talk about catching those red flags early on and the ability to protect ones own heart in those types of situations.
Q: How would you describe your sound in one word for potential listeners?
My sound in one word would be empowering.
Q: You’ve shared the stage with some big names like Shania Twain and Matt Lang. How have these experiences influenced your performances or songwriting?
These experiences always give me so much inspiration. I love watching how other artists put together their set, how they interact with the crowd and how they bring their records to the live show with an amazing band. I always learn so much!
Q: What is the message of your music? And what are your goals as an artist?
The message of my music is to empower, live your life and do what you love. I want people to hear my music and feel like they have the power to live out there truth all while having a feel good time.
Q: Who is your dream artist to collaborate with? (dead or alive)
Bruce Springsteen is my number 1 and has been for forever. I’d love to sing with him, write with him and just spend an afternoon learning from one of the best.
Q: What is your advice for people interested in pursuing music as a career or for those trying to enter the industry?
A) Let go of expectations and stay true to yourself. It’s easy to get swayed in this industry but just keep your head down, blinders on and keep working at what you do best.
Q: If you could go back in time and give a younger you some words of wisdom, what would they be?
A) I would tell myself to be kinder to myself and that I was doing great all along. I would
even reiterate the above, stay true to yourself and keep going.
