God Knows I’ve Tried – Interview with Kelsy Karter

How do you usually write the lyrics to your songs?

Depends. Sometimes I’ll write them as a poem first. Then create an arrangement and melodies. And other times we do melodies first. But all the time my lyrics are autobiographical. Everything has been said. I just like to say them in Kelsy Karter’s way.

In your opinion, what is the most important thing in songwriting?

Hmmm, melody is most important, but after that, its perspective.

Are you ever scared of revealing aspects of your personal life/experience to strangers through your music?

No, definitely not scared. I love it too much and it’s what I’m here to do. Tell stories, inspire, intrigue. I’m much better talking about my feelings in my music than I am in regular conversation.

What is the best lyric that you ever wrote (the most meaningful to you)?

Hmm… possibly “and to be honest, i killed a man to keep him modest”. (unreleased song) There’s a true underlying meaning in that for me. Cuts.

What inspired “God Know I’ve Tried”, your latest single?

I’ve always loved testing the limits and doing what other people won’t do. Chaos…I need. It turns me on. But that has gotten me in a lot of trouble and hurt people. G.K.I.T is a love letter to myself, but an apology to everyone else.

And “Sad Sad Summer”?

I had a really fucked up year last year. And I wanted to talk about it.

Do you remember the day you wrote “Out Of Drugs”?

I do.

What was the best moment of you career? And the most difficult one?

There’s really not just one for either. Honestly the worst days are when I miss my family so much it hurts. And the best days are creating with my team and fans. They all inspire me so much.

What are your plans for these last months of 2018?

Finishing up the record and all the visuals. And prepping for touring.

To conclude the interview a short Q/A session, please answer the first thing that comes to your mind:

Define in one word your music/sound: Rebellious.
The best show you ever played: The smallest one I ever did….in this shitty coffee shop where my Dad came and got to hear me sing for the first time after five years. I had never seen him more proud.
The one thing that you must have in your backstage: Tea + Coffee.
The soundtrack of your childhood: Sam Cooke.
Your favorite song lyrically speaking but not written by you: “We Could Be Heroes” – David Bowie or “Hotel California” – The Eagles.
Last question is “unusual”, we want to know your best relationship advice: The same advice I give about life. DO IT YOUR WAY.