Meet Nick Kellie

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Nick Kellie. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Nick , thanks so much for taking the time to share your insights and lessons with us today. We’re particularly interested in hearing about how you became such a resilient person. Where do you get your resilience from?

I think my resilience comes from a combination of my upbringing, my love for music, and my belief in the long game. Growing up, I was taught the value of hard work and persistence. My family always encouraged me to keep going, even when things were tough, and that mindset has stuck with me throughout my career.

But honestly, it’s music itself that keeps me resilient. No matter how difficult things get, my passion for playing the guitar and creating music always pulls me through. It’s that sense of purpose—knowing that this is what I’m meant to do—that keeps me pushing forward, even when there are setbacks. Whether it’s the frustration of navigating the business side of the industry or dealing with personal challenges, I remind myself that every obstacle is part of the journey.

Another key factor is the musicians I’ve been fortunate enough to work with. Collaborating with such talented artists has taught me that resilience is essential in this field. Watching people who have faced their own struggles still show up and create something amazing gives me strength and perspective. It’s that community, combined with my own drive, that fuels my resilience and keeps me going no matter what.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

As a guitarist and collaborator in the music industry, I immerse myself in a diverse range of creative projects that span live performances, recording sessions, and collaborations with talented artists. I played second guitar and contribute backing vocals in Frank Gambale Soulmine featuring Boca, and I often collaborate with acts like Brian Auger’s Oblivion Express. My work allows me to explore different genres, from jazz and fusion to soul and pop, and every performance brings a unique energy that keeps me excited about what I do.

What I find most special about being a musician is the ability to connect with others through music. Whether I’m on stage in an intimate venue like The Baked Potato or recording in the studio with greats like Vinnie Colaiuta and Jimmy Johnson, there’s a shared experience that transcends words. Music has the power to evoke emotions and create lasting memories, and being part of that process is incredibly fulfilling.

I’m also proud to be involved in recording sessions for Jimmy Haslip Productions, particularly for saxophonist Randal Clark. These projects challenge me creatively and allow me to contribute to crafting soundscapes that tell stories and resonate with audiences.

Looking ahead, I’m excited to share that I have some upcoming performances and collaborations in the works, as well as new recording projects that are set to launch soon. My goal is always to push creative boundaries while remaining authentic to my artistic vision. I invite everyone to follow my journey, whether through social media or attending live shows, as I continue to explore new musical landscapes and connect with fans and fellow musicians. My brand is rooted in passion, collaboration, and a commitment to creating meaningful music that speaks to the heart.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Reflecting on my journey, I believe the three most impactful qualities have been versatility, resilience, and a strong sense of collaboration.

Versatility: Being adaptable across different genres and roles has allowed me to work with a diverse range of artists and styles. It’s important to be open to exploring various musical influences and techniques. For those early in their journey, I’d advise actively seeking out opportunities to play in different settings—whether it’s joining various bands, experimenting with different genres, or even taking lessons in styles outside your comfort zone. This broadens your skill set and enhances your creativity.

Resilience: The music industry can be unpredictable, and setbacks are inevitable. Cultivating resilience means learning to bounce back from disappointments and keep pushing forward. My advice is to focus on your passion for music—let that be your anchor. Set small, achievable goals and celebrate those victories, no matter how minor they may seem. This mindset helps you stay motivated through the tough times.

Collaboration: Building relationships with other musicians has been crucial in my career. The more you connect and collaborate, the more you grow. Early on, it’s beneficial to network within your local music scene—attend jam sessions, open mics, and workshops. Don’t hesitate to reach out to other artists for collaborations or even informal jam sessions. Each interaction is a learning opportunity and can lead to new creative ventures.

In summary, focus on being versatile, embrace challenges with resilience, and actively seek collaboration. These qualities will not only enhance your musical journey but also enrich your life as a creative individual.

What do you do when you feel overwhelmed? Any advice or strategies?

When I feel overwhelmed, I often turn to a few strategies that help me regain focus and clarity. One of the most impactful resources I’ve come across is the book The Inner Game of Music by Barry Green. It emphasizes the mental aspect of music-making, encouraging musicians to cultivate a strong inner voice that guides them through challenges. This book has really shaped my approach to handling stress and self-doubt.

Here are a few strategies I find helpful:

Mindfulness and Breathing: Taking a moment to pause and breathe deeply can do wonders. I often find a quiet space to practice mindfulness, focusing on my breath for a few minutes. This helps ground me and clears my mind.

Practice Visualization: Inspired by The Inner Game of Music, I use visualization techniques to picture successful performances or practice sessions. Imagining myself playing confidently and effortlessly can help alleviate anxiety and boost my self-belief.

Break Tasks Down: When I feel overwhelmed by a project or a busy schedule, I break it down into smaller, manageable tasks. This makes everything feel more achievable and less daunting.

Seek Support: Reaching out to fellow musicians or friends can also provide relief. Sharing experiences and getting support from others who understand the industry can be incredibly reassuring.

Take Breaks: Sometimes stepping away from music for a brief period can help me recharge. Whether it’s going for a walk, engaging in a different hobby, or simply resting, allowing myself time to unwind often leads to renewed creativity and energy.

By implementing these strategies and drawing from the lessons in The Inner Game of Music, I’ve learned to manage overwhelm more effectively, keeping my focus on my passion for music.

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