Singer/Songwriter Natalie Kalei recently released her debut project, Stick Around – EP and we asked her some questions. 

TTN: Since this is your first body of work, what other albums did you love growing up that inspired your music making process?

Natalie: This is a tough question for me because I have the cliche answer of “I listen to everything” but I actually do! A few that stick out in my early memories would be Elvis, Beatles, Bob Marley, Stevie Wonder, Nat King Cole, All the greatest Motown hits, Erykah Badu, The Chicks and the list could go forever. Both my Moms side and Dads side are very music oriented and listen to insane variety. I love it.

On your EP, ‘Stick Around’, what was your hardest song to complete?

I think I would say the last track “Stick Around” . It was a bit more challenging for me because I like to write with a lot of words. I like to story tell so it’s challenging for me to be less wordy and more simple. It’s also my favorite for that reason. It’s sweet and simple.

Outside of music, what is one of your favorite things to do?

I’m sort of a Jack of all trades. I love everything creative. I’ve been into photography for a long time. I still get asked to do shoots for other artists. I also love fashion. I’ve modeled for small brands here and love to style people as well. One thing that most people know about me is my love for thrifting. I’m a pro by now I always find the gems!!

Favorite thing about the music industry, & your least favorite thing about the music industry?

I think my favorite thing about the industry is being surrounded by and working with like minded people. It’s both comforting and inspiring being around fellow creatives. I love the community. My least favorite thing is how scary it can be as a woman in the industry. I feel that women in the industry need to be aware of peoples intentions. Being sexualized in the work space happens way too often. It’s so unsettling when you think someone wants to work with you but they actually had an ulterior motive.

If you could remix any song on your EP, what song would it be and what other artist would you add to it?

I definitely have imagined remixing “Selfish”. I think it would be so dope to have a male response, whether it would be a rap verse or singing.

What is one piece of advice that your dad gave to you that means the most to you right now in this stage of your life?

I have several but one that I think back on often is “Do not waste time on those that don’t see your true Magic.” As I’ve gotten older this piece of advice has been a reminder to remember who I am and my worth.

The Las Vegas native’s new R&B project is available everywhere now. Listen to it on Apple Music HERE.