“You make it easier to breathe. Gave me my eyes so I can see. Made me inevitably free. That’s what you gave to me baby“

KELS is the moniker for Pittsburgh based indie alt-R&B artist Kelsey Hillock who began her musical journey in jazz and uses that foundation in her music, adding elements of neosoul and pop. As she finishes prepping her debut EP, KELS has dropped a new single entitled “No Lie” which perfectly showcases her varied influences. I want to thank KELS for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.

The first album you ever bought?
Something to Live For – Ella Fitzgerald.

Your last album bought?
Choose Your Weapon – Hiatus Kaiyote. The last one I physically bought the rest are downloaded!

Favorite album of all time?
The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill – Ms. Lauryn Hill.

Least favorite/most disappointing album?
25 – Adele. I was a day one fan of Adele in 2008, her songwriting to me seems less and less honest each year since her release of 19.

First concert attended?
I don’t remember honestly. I went to see Phantom of The Opera in NYC when I was 5 and that’s my earliest memory of attending a live performance.

Last concert?
Chris Brown at PPG.

Favorite concert ever?
tUnE-yArDs in Millvale in 2012.

Least favorite concert?
O.A.R. – very anticlimactic for me, and maybe it was the crowd.

Favorite thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
My favorite experience in Pittsburgh is the walks I take on our bridges. Every bridge leads to a neighborhood that is different than the one on the other side. I’m very big on walking and biking rather than driving somewhere. We have very distinct neighborhoods here – Garfield feels different than Lawrenceville, The Strip feels different than the North Side, downtown has a vibe of its own. All of our neighborhoods have a character and unique look. I will always remember Pittsburgh as a dynamic and unique city with many neighborhoods all ticking to their own clock. I really enjoy spending time and taking it all in by foot.

Thanks, KELS. I have been loving your music and not only look forward to hearing more but also the opportunity to see you perform live once this pandemic is all past us.

Support KELS
#SupportPGHMusic