Today we’d like to introduce you to Caelin, Lili and Madison of Next of Kin.
Hi Caelin, Lili and Madison, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Next of Kin began around a year ago. We were all friends and had our own projects separately, and had been working the Austin music scene for quite some time. We were brought together one day randomly to sing together on a song Lili had written, and quickly realized that the blend of all three of our voices was something special. That song became our first single, Jekyll & Hyde.
Now a year later, our first EP is out, and we have grown so much together as a band. We’ve played around Texas, sold out all of our headlining shows, and are set to play ACL this fall. I think what we are most excited about is recording our debut album – we’re so ready for our fans to hear this new set of music! The entire journey thus far has felt like a dream come true, only made possibly with each other and our beautiful fans.
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?
When you are a DIY project, things can pretty get hectic. While we’ve navigated the past year, we’ve made our own merch, booked our own shows, are constantly writing, and trying to navigate social media. It can be extremely stressful because the work never ends, but thankfully we are not doing it alone and can rely on and support each other. The music industry has remained one of the toughest to break into, and we are so determined to just do what we love and find our people.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Next of Kin is a queer country (without the o) band, with three front people. Our sound is distinct with its three part harmonies, and our song writing strikes a chord with those who may have not felt seen in the country music. We speak on our daily lives, matters of the heart, and have been so happy that so many people have already found community within our music.
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
Honestly just being together and playing shows. This is something that we’ve wanted to do our whole lives and the fact that we get to do it together makes it even more special. Our band name is meaningful, because we have found family (kin) in each other. We make music because it’s our passion, but I think our love for each other makes this project equally as special, and can be seen on and off stage. Being with your best friends and pursuing a shared dream means everything, and it’s not a feeling that could ever be replicated.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.nextofkintheband.com
- Instagram: @nextofkintheband
Image Credits
in order of appearance, photo cred: Rob Bowes, Renee Dominguez, Ismael Quintanilla III, Marshall Tidrick
