Kelsea Ballerini recently took center stage on our plaza, performing her new hit “Baggage” from her latest album Patterns. As she gears up for her first-ever headlining show at Madison Square Garden, excitement is palpable. This Tennessee native, who first burst onto the scene with her debut album The First Time at just 21, continues to solidify her place in the music industry, earning accolades and a devoted fanbase along the way.
The Magic of New York City
During a recent “Sunday Sitdown,” Kelsea reflected on her experiences in New York, expressing a desire to spend more time writing in the city. “There’s a magic to the city,” she noted, emphasizing the inspiration she finds in its vibrant atmosphere. As a seasoned songwriter with nearly two decades of experience, Kelsea shared the emotional rollercoaster that accompanies her creative process. “Just fetal position,” she joked when asked how she feels at the start of a new album.
Exploring Themes of Womanhood
Her latest project, Patterns, delves into significant themes like womanhood and personal growth. Kelsea explained, “I wanted to reflect the warmth and camaraderie I’ve found in my life,” highlighting the album’s underlying maternal tones. One standout track, “Sorry Mama Smelled Like Cigarettes,” captures her evolving relationship with her mother, celebrating their bond and understanding as they transition into womanhood.
Finding Solace in Music
Growing up in Knoxville, Kelsea faced challenges, particularly during her parents’ divorce. Writing songs provided her with solace during difficult times. Moving to Nashville at 15, she navigated the competitive music scene, determined to carve out her own path. Early skepticism didn’t deter her; instead, it fueled her ambition to prove herself.
Mentorship from Taylor Swift
A pivotal moment in Kelsea’s journey came from a conversation with her idol, Taylor Swift. “You have to become undeniable,” Swift advised, encouraging Kelsea to embrace her unique voice and style. This guidance has been instrumental in Kelsea’s career, pushing her to take risks and share her truth with the world.
Personal Growth and New Relationships
Last year, Kelsea released Rolling Up the Welcome Mat, a deeply personal EP that addressed her divorce from Australian country artist Morgan Evans. “I wanted to share my perspective on a woman in country music talking about divorce,” she stated, emphasizing the importance of representation in her genre. The release also coincided with her new relationship with actor Chase Stokes, adding a fresh layer of happiness to her life.
Anticipating Madison Square Garden
As Kelsea prepares for her Madison Square Garden performance, she expresses both excitement and nerves. “It’s a big girl show!” she exclaimed, reflecting on her growth as an artist and person. “I bet on myself now,” she affirmed, ready to embrace this significant milestone.
In a lighthearted moment, Kelsea celebrated with a classic New York City hot dog, saying, “Cheers, to Patterns and to New York City hot dogs.” With her new album streaming everywhere, Kelsea Ballerini is poised to continue captivating audiences and sharing her authentic voice in the ever-evolving landscape of country music.
