Meet Kayli Marie

We recently connected with Kayli Marie and have shared our conversation below.

Kayli , we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.
Growing up, music has always been a part of my life in some way. Whether it was singing with my dad in a semi-truck across the country or playing the flute during my high school years, it’s always been something to which I’ve been drawn. My passion for music production and singing began with YouTube covers I would make in high school. I would find instrumental tracks on YouTube and create these massive vocal productions with a hundred tracks of vocal layering. The fact that I could sit there for hours, eager to do more, ignited my passion. It became something I only longed to do during school hours.

Once I started college, family members and peers became concerned, emphasizing that music was merely a hobby and that I should focus my attention on more practical pursuits, such as business. Then I learned about the Entrepreneurship Business program and the new recording studio facility offered at the University of Tampa, and it became my dream to attend. Accepted into the University of Tampa, I decided to major in International Business: Entrepreneurship while pursuing music as a hobby. However, as time progressed, I found less time for what I truly loved, to the point where I felt less like myself. I was like a drone, completing tasks based on what was expected of me, aimlessly wondering what my true purpose was. Am I meant to work as a desk lady in the corporate world for the rest of my life? Supply chain management doesn’t interest me. If I could, I would spend my whole life doing music production, creating intricate pieces for films.

In secret, I would sneak into the practice rooms at the music building and record for my channel. That was when it became painfully clear that I was pursuing the wrong path. Music is not just a hobby; it is a part of who I am and what I am called to do. Not having music in my life proved to be more detrimental than beneficial. This realization led to my decision to pursue music full-time, leading to a double major in both International Business and Music Technology.

Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I am an independent artist based in Tampa, FL, and a full-time student at the University of Tampa. I specialize in crafting expansive ballad pop pieces and cinematic productions. As my artistry develops, I aspire to bring back the commanding pop soundscapes that were prominent between 2010 and 2014, akin to the styles of artists such as Sia, Lorde, and Lana Del Rey—each with their distinctive and resonant voices.

Through my music, I aim to tell stories that encapsulate a journey or impart a lesson, hoping to inspire and empower my listeners. My intention is to instill love and hope, while also infusing my unique artistic identity into each composition.

I have just released my debut song titled “Tiptoe,” now available on all platforms. “Tiptoe” is a dynamic pop anthem crafted with a year’s worth of challenges, creativity, and passion. My team, Futurewaves, based in the Netherlands, and I have devoted a year to this grand production, overcoming the hurdles posed by our geographical distance. After iterating through 47 versions, our dedication to and love for this piece have fueled us to completion. It’s powerful, stirring, and designed to empower listeners, inspiring them to heed their inner “Go” signal and pursue their passions. As of today, I am continuing my young journey, creating more pieces like these, and embracing my artistry by performing at local coffee shops such as DI at Davis Island. Come see me perform at DI coffee shop November 17th at 7:30 p.m would love to see you there.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Looking back, I believe the most impactful skills and qualities I’ve developed over the years include expanding my vocal range and embracing opera. Once I began studying opera, I gained a profound understanding of my voice’s capabilities, which, in turn, greatly enhanced my vocal skills.

Another significant aspect of my musical journey has been mastering Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs), such as Logic and Analog. These classes have not only deepened my understanding of music production but have also allowed me to define my style and experiment with my artistic interests.

Additionally, my engagement with YouTube and social media has been instrumental in growing my audience. It has also sharpened my skills in videography and editing. These skill sets and the knowledge I’ve accumulated are invaluable; they have opened doors to opportunities that I am profoundly thankful for.

All the wisdom you’ve shared today is sincerely appreciated. Before we go, can you tell us about the main challenge you are currently facing?
Balancing my time between managing eight classes and nurturing my artistry is a challenge I am currently navigating. I’ve just released my first major production, “Tiptoe,” which is the culmination of a year’s worth of dedication and effort to bring my vision to life. My team and I are earnestly seeking the right audience to embrace our new release.

In the midst of consistently posting as an artist, handling my marketing, and juggling musicianship with my studies, the journey has been demanding. Nonetheless, despite these challenges, there’s a profound appreciation for the process. I have a passion for all that I’m involved in and am deeply thankful for the opportunities to grow and develop in both my academic and artistic pursuits.

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Image Credits
Taken by Najja Price

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