Exclusive Interview: Pop Culturalist Chats with Kelsey Coleman

Let us introduce you to Kelsey Coleman, a rising pop star who’s made 2020 her year. She’s quickly earned attention for her authenticity and vulnerability; tackling subject matters like depression, anxiety, and fear; and making listeners feel less alone. We had the pleasure of chatting with Kelsey about discovering her passion for music, her new single “Break Mine”, and the biggest moment in her career thus far.

PC: How did you discover your passion for music?
Kelsey: I’ve always loved music. I remember in elementary school, I would sing all the time and dress up.

PC: Who or what has had the biggest influence on your career?
Kelsey: I honestly think that Halsey is my biggest influence. I fell in love with everything about her in 2015. She’s really inspired me to try different things, from my appearance to the art that I create.

PC: You just dropped a new single. Tell us about “Break Mine” and the inspiration behind the song.
Kelsey: “Break Mine” is about not wanting to break someone’s heart and wishing they would break your heart instead.

PC: “Break Mine” comes off your upcoming debut album. What can fans expect from the release?
Kelsey: I actually don’t have a full album ready yet, but I have a couple more singles and maybe an EP soon. I’d love to explore different genres, like rock, pop, and punk.

PC: You shine a light on a lot of heavy topics, like depression, anxiety, and fear. Is it ever nerve-wracking being so vulnerable in your craft?
Kelsey: It isn’t, to be honest. I know so many people who are struggling with the same things I’m struggling with. When I speak about these topics, I know I’m not alone.

PC: If you had to pick one song off of the debut album or EP that best encompasses who you are as an artist, which would it be and why?
Kelsey: Probably a song called “Borderline Heartless”. It explores my love for pop, punk, and emo songs, which I really want to create more of.

PC: 2020 has been a breakout year for you. When you look back, has anything surprised you? What’s been the biggest takeaway?
Kelsey: I think the most surprising thing was seeing myself on Teen Vogue and getting messages from people all around the world who have listened to my music.

Pop Culturalist Speed Round

PC: A band or artist that fans would be surprised to learn is on your playlist?
Kelsey: 100 gecs.

PC: First album you bought?
Kelsey: Stadium Arcadium by Red Hot Chili Peppers.

PC: First concert you attended?
Kelsey: Big Time Rush.

PC: An album that changed your life and why?
Kelsey: Badlands by Halsey. The story that it tells is so amazing and you can actually hear different sounds.

PC: A venue on your bucket list to perform at?
Kelsey: Madison Square Garden.

PC: A must-have on the road?
Kelsey: My favorite hoodie.

To keep up with Kelsey, check out her official website.