Born in Listowel, Ontario, Karli fell in love with music as a child, singing in her church’s choir, at local fairs and singing competitions. During her teens she began writing songs in earnest, studied piano, taught herself guitar, and took every opportunity to perform live during school concerts, in musical theatre productions, and at the local pub. In 2020 Karli released “Say Too Much,” a collaboration between with Scott Chesak (All American Rejects), which has been streamed over 120,000 times on Spotify. Prior to that Karli performed at Canadian country music festival Boots & Hearts, and has shared the stage with the likes of Dierks Bentley, Brett Kissel, Terri Clark, and Corb Lund.
Please take a moment and give us some background info about becoming an artist?
Absolutely. I started at 9 years old in church and on my parents farm. I fell in love with it the first time I ever sang and started singing wherever I could. There were opportunities at events in my hometown, and I also did singing competitions as well. I completed my Hon. Bachelor of Music in Classical Voice in 2013, and then following that started to really get out in the industry– writing and recording. I had the honour of working with a lot of people who have helped me out, and I am so excited about where it is going.
What is it about music that makes you feel passionate?
Music connects to the heart in a very special way. It can uplift you, teach you, make you smile, make you cry. All of these things make me love it so much.
Tell us a bit about your musical direction.
I would say my style is modern country — but with classic country inspiration. On my record all of the songs are a true part of my story. From falling in love, to celebrating my hometown and where I come from, to faith. It hits on all of the parts of my heart — and from there my style felt very honest and genuine.
Heart Drunk has done quite well on the charts. Now tell us all about your new single Home Team.
Thank you! My new single “Home Team” is a song that I wrote as a thank you to all of the people who have been there in my life through the ups and downs. It’s a song for everyone to celebrate those people in their lives. I know in this past year, those people have meant more than ever before. I hope everyone feels even more love for their closest loved ones after listening to it.
Who was involved in the making of the new single?
I wrote this song with Karen Kosowski (who also produced the track) and another writer in Nashville named Tori Tullier.
What is the biggest struggle for you as a musician at the moment?
It’s a tough time in the industry because we aren’t able to play our songs for any crowds. I think that gives you a lot of inspiration, seeing the smiles on peoples faces as they hear your music. In lockdown I have had to work a lot harder to stay inspired and also discipled in my craft. I can’t wait for the day when we are back playing shows again! You don’t realize how big a part of you that is.
How have you been keeping creative during the Pandemic?
I’ve been doing lots of writing, and also taking a lot of time to listen to more music. I’m very inspired by so many other artists! I listen to a lot of inspirational speakers as well — and read quite a bit. All of these things help me to stay inspired and excited to write.
Describe your favourite and least favourite part about being a musician
My favourite part is having a platform to make a difference. Music is something that brings people so much joy and it’s an incredible honour to be able to be part of making someone’s day a little better. I love that. The hardest part is balancing the highs and lows of a career in music – and also separating who you are from your success. I try to remember that no matter how much or little success you have, it doesn’t change how important you are!
What are your plans for the rest of 2021?
I am so excited to be releasing my debut EP this year! I will have a couple more singles coming out before that time — and I am also getting married this fall! So it should be a wonderful year ahead.
Is there anyone you would like to collaborate with in particular?
Wow, so many people!! I love Gordie Sampson as a songwriter. He wrote one of my favourite songs “Jesus Take The Wheel”. I hope to someday be able to be in a room with him writing!
When you kick back, who are some of the artists you listen to?
There are a lot of female artists I am loving right now. Mickey Guyton, Carly Pearce to name a few… but I am such a sucker for 90s country. I love all the artists I grew up listening to. Martina Mcbride and Shania never get old for me to turn on!
We here are always interested in knowing what hobbies or interests you might have outside of music?
I love being part of my church as much as I can! I love fitness and have been trying out a lot of new kinds of workouts during the pandemic… and also love to cook. It all balances out, haha!
Twitter: @karlijunemusic
Facebook: /karlijunemusic
Instagram: @itskarlijune
Website: www.karlijune.com
