Kelela's Early Career and Influences
Kelela's journey in the music industry began over a decade ago, with her breakout mixtape Cut 4 Me in 2013. However, her foray into music started earlier, when she was part of the indie rock band Dizzy Spells in Washington DC. This experience not only introduced her to songwriting but also allowed her to experiment and find her unique sound. Her time with Dizzy Spells and her collaboration with Tosin Abasi, the lead guitarist of Animals as Leaders, played a significant role in shaping her approach to music.
Kelela's early influences and experiences have had a lasting impact on her music. Her ability to blend different genres, from R&B and electronic to indie rock, has been a hallmark of her career. This experimentation has not only garnered her critical acclaim but has also inspired a new generation of musicians. Artists like PinkPantheress, who features on Kelela's new single The Bridge, have cited Kelela as a major influence, praising her talent for pushing the boundaries of music and her role in opening doors for other Black female electronic and pop artists.
New Avatar and Kelela's Evolving Sound
Kelela's latest album, New Avatar, marks a significant evolution in her sound. The title, which suggests transformation and renewal, is apt, given the album's incorporation of new genres and styles. The album features silky, hook-laden vocals filtered through shoegaze reverb and bracing rock music, a departure from her earlier work. This reinvention is not only a testament to Kelela's creativity and willingness to experiment but also a reflection of her growth as an artist.
The release of New Avatar has also coincided with Kelela's increased presence on social media, where she has been engaging with her fans and sharing aspects of her life and music. Her ability to connect with her audience and navigate the complexities of social media has been noteworthy, especially given the often surreal and humorous nature of her online presence. From blowing kisses to a crowd in Soho, New York, to posing for fans against a fog-strewn background, Kelela's online persona is as intriguing as her music.
Kelela as a Social Impact
Kelela's influence extends beyond the music industry. She has become a role model for young Black women, particularly those interested in pursuing careers in music and the arts. Her commitment to speaking out on social issues and using her platform to raise awareness about important causes has been inspiring. Kelela's ability to balance her artistic expression with her social consciousness has made her a respected figure in the entertainment industry.
As Kelela continues to evolve as an artist and a person, her music and message remain a source of inspiration for her fans. With New Avatar, she has once again pushed the boundaries of what is possible in music, incorporating new sounds and styles into her work. Her journey, marked by experimentation, creativity, and a commitment to social impact, serves as a reminder of the power of art to transform and uplift us.