Today we’d like to introduce you to Kelsi Beaver.
Hi Kelsi, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Nearly three years ago, I left my hometown of Baton Rouge, LA to travel the country. I packed only what could fit into my Honda CRV, built myself a bed in place of my back seats, and left to chase my dreams with $50 to my name and my guitar.” Since then, I’ve been to 10 states and performed at over 150 open mics in pursuit of my dream.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I think no matter what you choose to do in life, the road is never smooth. There are times when I’ve been stranded in unfamiliar places, with no food, gas or cell service. Nights I’ve had to sleep in my car, in 17-degree weather, with hardly any proper clothing. Months of trying to fight loneliness, depression and the nagging voice in my head telling me to give up. And while it isn’t “smooth” I feel like these experiences gave me a different perspective, not only on life but on myself. Things I thought I could never do or survive. I did. And although it wasn’t easy or glamorous, it was memorable.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a singer-songwriter and musician. My genre fits mostly in a Pop/Soul category, however it’s also a melting pot of styles. I’m most proud of being self-taught, minus the half-semester of guitar lessons is 8th grade. Although my imposter syndrome would have me think otherwise at times, lol I think what sets me apart from others is that I bare my soul when I am performing. I love playing music and I feel like the audience can see and feel that I enjoy it.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
My advice for other traveling musicians/entrepreneurs, as cliche as it sounds, is to not give up. Also, to constantly be in a state of evolution with re-inventing yourself and your ideas. Ask for help when you need it and offer help when you can. There is only so much one person can do, allow yourself to be open to new ideas and experiences. The biggest thing that has helped me grow the most is community. And no matter the person or situation, there is always something you can learn from other people, so take time to listen and absorb. Believe in yourself before anyone else and keep grinding it out.
Contact Info:
- Email: kelsimusicbooking@yahoo.com
- Website: www.kelsimusic.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsi_music/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kelsimusic
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/kelsimusic
- SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/user-726199324
Image Credits
Tanja Heffner @tanjaheffner Hollyn Beaver Photography @hollynbeaver Boweana’s Lens @512dmichele
