Exclusive Interview: Pop Culturalist Chats with Keelie Walker

Keelie Walker is a U.S. pop sensation who has performed around the world and at iconic venues, including London’s Wembley Stadium. She’s shared the stage with artists like Westlife and Jason Derulo, and just dropped her new single, “Not You”. At only fifteen, Keelie Walker is unquestionably one to keep your eyes (and ears) on. Pop Culturalist spoke with this fast-rising superstar about her career.

PC: How did you discover your passion for music?
Keelie: I actually didn’t know I wanted to sing until I was thirteen. I always sang around the house, but I never went through with it because I can be really shy, and people can be mean. Then I met my producer, Bryan Todd, and he encouraged me to go through with the singing side, and so I thought why not see where it goes.

PC: Who or what has had the biggest influence on your career?
Keelie: I have lots of inspirations like Jennifer Lopez, Kelhani, Britney Spears, and Beyoncé. I think it’s so cool that Beyoncé started off around my age as an upcoming artist and now she’s so huge. She sings so well and stays on her grind. It’s inspiring to see that for someone who started at my age to be as big as she is now.

PC: You just finished a tour opening for Westlife. What’s been the biggest lesson you’ve learned on the road?
Keelie: Making sure that I stay hydrated and that I drink plenty of water. You have to take care of yourself because tour life is huge, and you have to make sure you’re healthy and responsible for yourself. That means going to bed early because you have a press day the next day before the show in the evening, being on time for soundcheck…stuff like that.

PC: You’ve had a lot of success already in your young career. When you look back is there a particular moment that sticks out to you?
Keelie: The first time I realized that things were going to take off was when I performed at Wembley because it was huge, and seeing all the people in the crowd was amazing. It was my first time experiencing how the whole backstage thing works before you perform. I watched LZ7 (who were the opening act) perform and thinking, “Wow! They’re really out there doing that, and I’ll be doing that soon,” and here I am which is great.

Pop Culturalist Speed Round

PC: A band or artist that fans would be surprised to learn is on your playlist?
Keelie: Probably Lil Skies—my favorite song is “Unwritten”.

PC: First album you bought?
Keelie: Justin Bieber’s Purpose

PC: First concert you attended?
Keelie: I saw Taylor Swift when I was six in Tennessee.

PC: Someone you’d love to collaborate with in the future?
Keelie: Beyoncé or Billie Eilish

PC: An album that changed your life and why?
Keelie: To be honest, I would say Justin Bieber’s Purpose album because there are a lot of songs on it that are on my playlist now.

PC: A venue on your bucket list to perform at?
Keelie: Wembley, but my own show!

PC: A must-have on the road?
Keelie: A hoodie because I’m obsessed with them.

To keep up with Keelie, follow her on Twitter and Instagram, and pick up “Not You” on Amazon Music, iTunes, or stream it on Spotify.