7 Questions For Kelsea Ballerini
Kelsea Ballerini is the first solo female country artist whose debut single was a number one hit since Carrie Underwood’s “Jesus, Take The Wheel,” but Ballerini’s been working hard at her dream since she was 12 years old. The Tennessee native moved to Nashville in 2008 at the age of 15 to pursue a career in music, and at 19, topped charts with “Love Me Like You Mean It,” her breakout hit.
Now, following the release of her debut album, Kelsea sat down to answer 7 questions about the secret to writing music, her fashion icons, and heartbreak. And unsurprisingly, we ended up talking about Drake. Check out her answers below.
Can you talk a little bit about yourself and your music?
KB: Peter Pan is my favorite song on my album. I’ve gotten to show my fun and youthful side with both “Love Me Like You Mean It” and “Dibs,” but I’m really excited to show more depth with my songwriting with “Peter Pan.”
Did you write “Peter Pan” about somebody specific? Do you think people attribute songs more to personal narratives when talking about country music?
KB: There are a lot of songs about cheating or a dramatic breakup, but I wanted to write one about a relationship that just doesn’t work because someone can’t love like the other. It’s a sad kind of heartbreak, and I wanted to sing about it.
Who are your country singer fashion icons?
KB: Shania! She always pushed the boundaries and had fun with her style. I want to be a trendsetter like that.
4. Where’s your favorite place to see music live?
KB: I love arena tours; I love watching the production and having dance parties. I try to go see any show that comes through town!
What’s the secret to writing a good country song?
KB: Telling the truth. It’s all about showing heart, whether that’s good, bad, ugly, or beautiful.
What was the inspiration behind the title for your debut album, The First Time?
KB: I knew that with the release of this album I would get to experience a lot of firsts. First single, y debut, first nominations and TV shows and everything. It was kind of a theme of my life.
Who would you sing your dream duet with and why?
KB: I love collaborating! I’d love to work with Gavin DeGraw, Drake, Sam Hunt, or Imagine Dragons.
