Garland Kelly is a modern rock producer with a difference, creating his own music as part of the process. He’s extremely busy, showing just how dedicated to his music he is! We recently reviewed his song A Mind of Your Own, but you should also keep your eyes peeled for more from Garland in the near future, as we’ll be sharing more of his music soon.
By Jane Howkins
You released a single titled A Mind of Your Own. What can you tell us about the track?
A Mind of Your Own is about disinformation, free thought and media manipulation. It was written in response to the current social and political climate worldwide.
How has the reception to A Mind of Your Own been so far, and where can the song be purchased?
The reception for A Mind of Your Own has exceeded my expectations! I’m so grateful to everyone who has listened and shared the song and I am so glad people have connected with the music and subject matter. I love hearing different perspectives on the musical influences people cite hearing in the song as well. A Mind of Your Own is available on all major streaming platforms and can be purchased on my BandCamp at garlandkelley.ba…ur-own
Do you plan to release any more singles in the near future?
Absolutely! My next single The Point of No Return will be released Friday, February 24th. This song addresses climate change and climate anxiety. I am equally proud of this song and hope it will resonate with people as much as A Mind of Your Own has. In addition, I have 3 more singles set to release this year.
Do you plan to release an EP or an album anytime soon?
The release of these 5 singles will culminate in an EP release in September. I will be hosting an EP release party and will provide details of that on my website and social media shortly. I will have limited run vinyls available as well as other merchandise. I will also be performing the songs from the EP live.
Your music has an alt rock sound. What/who influences you most as an artist? What have you been listening to recently?
The core of my sound and influences are rooted in classic rock and 90s rock which is likely evident in my music. I am particularly influenced by rock bands and artists from the late 60s/early 70s. The biggest influences from that era would be The Beatles, The Doors, Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin and Jimi Hendrix. My biggest influences from the 90s are The Red Hot Chili Peppers, TOOL, Pearl Jam, Nirvana, Dave Matthews Band, Radiohead and Rage Against the Machine. My overall musical taste is eclectic. I love jazz, neo-soul, new age, lo-fi beats, yacht rock, singer-songwriter, folk, experimental music, etc. My favorite music to listen to lately is from artists I have found during the release of A Mind of Your Own. There is an Italian indie artist named Dead Rituals who I’ve been enjoying. I enjoy another Nashville-based indie-rock act called The Thing With Feathers. I’ve also really been enjoying the latest release from a UK-based rock band called Tigercub.
What do you think is the biggest challenge in the music business at the moment?
Likely the most cited challenge is the difficulty in ‘cutting through the noise’. While this is a factor, there is also more opportunity for independent artists to connect with potential fans and have their music heard than ever before. It seems that the music industry has always been a challenge for artists and musicians. That said, the combination of the rise of social media and streaming platforms has radically altered the foundation of the music industry. I feel that we are still in the wake of that transition which can be unnerving, but I believe that good music will always resonate with people.
You’re also a music producer. How do you fit it all in? Do you have any other side projects on the go?
Honestly, I fit it all in with the old cliche of hard work and determination. I certainly make time for my family and leisure, but it is rare that I genuinely take a full day off of work. Aside from the direct work of writing, recording, mixing and producing, I also have a weekly gig schedule. I play in multiple bands – my own, one with my wife and another being a corporate/wedding band. There is also the element of networking, which is an ongoing process -locally and beyond. I am currently fully focused on my own music but plan to expand my production skills to other artists when the opportunity presents itself naturally.
You’re based in Nashville. How is the music scene faring at the moment?
Nashville is home to some of the finest musicians, artists, and producers in the world. I am proud to be in the ranks with these people and to call many of them my friends. There is excellent live music every day of the week in Nashville and plenty of paid gigs available.
Do you have any tour dates lined up for the UK?
Not at the moment, but I definitely have plans to tour there in the future! Many of my favorite current bands and bands from the past hail from the UK and I feel that my music would be well-received there.
Any last words for the fans?
I cannot overemphasise how grateful I am to anyone who is reading this and has listened to my music. I have nothing but love for you and hope my music can provide something of value in your life!