Kelsy Karter and the Heroines are here to remind us that the spirit of rock & roll is alive, kicking, and occasionally smoking in the boys’ room.
Before Kelsy Karter and the Heroines take the stage at Cobra Lounge on Friday, March 9th, we caught up with Kelsy to chat about the legends she’d kill to jam with and why her music might just be the lovechild of punk spirit and soulful swagger.
Riot Fest: What is one book everyone should read?
Kelsy Karter: THE WAR OF ART!! (not to be mistaken for the art of war)
RF: What’s the best live set you’ve ever seen?
Kelsy: We played a festival with Liam Gallagher last year and his show was one of the best we’ve ever seen. Also (completely unbiased I promise) The Struts. We were also lucky enough to witness Paul McCartney and Chrissie Hynde perform together at the Taylor Hawkins tribute in London and it was magical.
RF: What’s your must-have snack in the tour van?
Kelsy: Coffee, Monster, Pot Noodle, Cheese, crisps, cigarettes
RF: If you could only recommend one album to anyone for the rest of your life, what album would it be?
Kelsy: If you know a person who doesn’t love Back to Black – Amy Winehouse, cut them out of your life.
RF: Who is your dream collaborator for a future Kelsy Karter & The Heroines song?
Kelsy: We’d love to work with Inhaler, they’re fucking amazing. Or Joan Jett or Billy Idol 😉
RF: What is your favorite song to cover?
Kelsy: How can we not say “Call Me” by Blondie?
RF: You’ve got a pretty specific style both on and off stage. Any inspirations for how you put together your look?
Kelsy: 80s rock & roll meets 90s minimalism. Leather, lace, silk and leopard baby. Feminine and masculine.
RF: Billy Idol took you on tour with him last spring! Do you have any other bucket list artists you’d love to go on tour with?
Kelsy: The aforementioned and absolute legend that is Liam Gallagher… also The Rolling Fucking Stones!
RF: You’ve talked a bit about maintaining your mental health while being on the road — what helps you get through those moments?
Kelsy: For some of us, simply being on the road IS the escape. For others it’s about talking shit out, calling home, smoking a cigarette and having a good cry.
RF: If there’s any advice you could give your younger self, what would it be?
Kelsy: Patience, my dear. You don’t have to run so fast all the time.
Kelsy Karter & The Heroines @ Cobra Lounge
Alex Villa
Emi Jeen
MAR 8 // Doors at 7 PM // 17+
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