Kelsey Montanez is Another Young and Talented Chicago Singer

Kelsey Montanez is a beautiful and talented singer/songwriter from Chicago, Illinois. This rising indie musician, with an alternative sound, was raised in a family of musicians. Montanez began singing when she was just four years of age, experimenting with music in the studio set up in her family's basement. She got her first electric guitar at the age of 13 and tried to organize bands with her friends from school. At 14, she got her first gig at an empty coffee shop in Lombard, Illinois. Today, Kelsey Montanez headlines major venues in Chicago.

Jolie du Pre: What is the main thing readers should know about Kelsey Montanez?

Kelsey Montanez: The only promise I can make is that I am a music maker and I always will be. I will be writing music for your listening pleasures until my last dying breath, whether I have one person listening or a million.

Jolie du Pre: Your father is a key reason why you're a singer today. Tell us about your father and his influence.

Kelsey Montanez: My father was always playing and performing while I was growing up, so music was a huge part of my life early on. My dad has also always been my main supporter. He booked me my very first show when I was 14 at a local coffee shop. He really helped me get my start in music.

Jolie du Pre: You have a soulful sound that I adore. In addition to your dad, who are your influences?

Kelsey Montanez: I can never give a straight answer to this question because my influences change with the wind. My music taste has always been very eclectic. But vocally, I grew up listening to Fiona Apple, Lauryn Hill and Erykah Badu. I'm sure in some way they have influenced the way I sing.

Jolie du Pre: I ask this of all indie artists, because the various answers intrigue me. Is indie your destination or are your sights set on a major label?

Kelsey Montanez: The way I see it is this; I would never purposefully stop myself from becoming more successful or from reaching a wider audience to keep the title of an indie artist. However, if I were to sign to a major label, I would need to feel confident that we shared the same vision, and I still had the choice to write and play the music that I want. But until that day comes, I really love the independent route. I love the rawness of being an independent musician.

Jolie du Pre: Please tell us about your upcoming events in the next few months.

Kelsey Montanez: My next show is Feb.15th at Reggies. I'm excited for this show, because the venue is awesome and the line-up is really cool that night. Beside that, I am expecting to drop my first album in the next few months. After that, I will be touring the album all over the Midwest. I would like to eventually get onto a cross-country tour. You can stay updated on my shows and interviews at my Myspace and Facebook.