Leilani Kilgore transitions from Nashville blues to rock and roll
Leilani Kilgore, a Nashville blues artist, has been honing her craft for years as a blues guitarist. However, despite her roots in blues, she never quite fit the mold of a traditional blues artist. Transitioning into a solo career a few years back, Kilgore made waves by releasing 2-3 singles every year from 2021 until last year. With each song, her audience expanded, captivated by her rock-tinged blues sound and her dynamic live performances.
After parting ways with her management company and experiencing personal changes, Kilgore decided to take her music career into her own hands as a fully independent artist. Embracing her rock and roll spirit, she aims to push boundaries and elevate her music by leveraging platforms such as BandLab and ReverbNation to broaden her reach and create new opportunities.
In a recent interview, Kilgore shared insights into her latest single, “HIGH/LOW,” which serves as the lead track from her upcoming debut album. Describing the song as a high-energy rock ‘n’ roll anthem, she revealed that the track has marked a significant shift in her artistic direction. Originally inspired by her ex-partner’s new love interest, the song eventually evolved into a reflection of her own struggles and vulnerabilities, resonating deeply with listeners and marking a positive reception for Kilgore’s evolving sound.
Reflecting on her musical evolution from a bluesy guitarist to a full-fledged rocker, Kilgore underscored the challenges she faced in balancing her artistic growth with commercial expectations. Initially advised by her management to release singles rather than albums, Kilgore found herself torn between her blues roots and a desire to explore new musical territories. However, upon breaking free from these constraints, she found the creative freedom to craft a sound that authentically represents her as an artist, exemplified by the bold and raw energy of “HIGH/LOW.”
Transitioning from a singles-based approach to creating a full album was no easy feat for the independent musician. Facing limited financing and resources, Kilgore and her band embarked on a frenzied three-day recording session to produce 12 tracks for the record. Despite the intense process and sleepless nights, Kilgore’s dedication to her craft shines through in every note of the album, capturing the essence of her journey from a blues guitarist to a rock powerhouse.
As Leilani Kilgore continues to make strides in her music career, her fearless exploration of new genres and sounds serves as an inspiration to aspiring musicians and fans alike. Through her unwavering commitment to artistic expression and authenticity, Kilgore paves the way for a new generation of independent artists to follow their creative impulses and break free from preconceived notions of genre and style.