Hadley Kennary A few words with up-and-coming singer-songwriter-guitarist, Hadley Kennary.
Leicester Bangs: Tell us a little about yourself. Hadley: I'm almost 18, and I've been singing ever since I could talk. I'm inspired by most things, particularly people and their mannerisms. My music is mostly acoustic, and it's all honest… my stories and feelings put to melodies. I'm going to continue my education in music when I start my first semester at Berklee College of Music in Boston in the fall.
LB: How did you start out making music? Hadley: Like I said, I've been singing for as long as I can remember. I began writing music with the guitar about two years ago. I started by taking things that inspired me… people, animals, feelings, and letting myself express how I really felt via music and lyrics. It helped me say what I needed to say in a unique way… a musical way.
LB: Who did you grow up listening to and how do they influence what you’re doing now? Hadley: My mom always played music in the house growing up. When I was really little, my mom would blast the Indigo Girls' albums and dance around the room with me. Their intricate harmonies and captivating lyrics have really influenced my writing and have inspired me to take note of their unique style. I also listened to the Dixie Chicks a lot as a kid, and I've learned to love their strong messages and tight harmonies.
LB: Tell us about your latest release. Hadley: This past January, I began recording an independent EP with two producers. Over the past few months, I got to experience bouncing ideas around creative minds to make my visions for my music a reality. It was fun process because I got to work with real musicians who had experience in doing something I hadn't done before (making an EP). I got to experiment with different harmonies, write a cello part for one of my songs (titled "Astronauts Dancing"), and get everything exactly how I wanted for my music. It was the most fun learning experience I've had (so far!).
LB: Do you get out and play your music live, and if so, what can an audience expect at one of your shows? Hadley: I play live where I can go… there's a local restaurant where I play sometimes close to my home. An audience can expect an intimate, acoustic performance of mostly original music with a few covers thrown in. All of my songs are personal… so expect to get to know me in a matter of minutes.
LB: What aspects of playing and recording music do you most enjoy? Hadley: The thing I most enjoy about playing and recording music is a specific type of reaction… In my music, I share things that I've learned and observed. After I finish a song playing a song for someone, sometimes that person says to me, "I know exactly what you mean" or "I can completely relate." I tend to like relatable music that can read me like an open book, so when my music does the same for another person, I feel like I did it right. Music, especially music this personal, can provide a connection for a person that puts them on the same page as someone else. It's the most beautiful form of comfort, in my opinion.
LB: Where can people find (and buy) your music? Hadley: For listening purposes, you can visit ReverbNation. To buy my EP, go to iTunes. For my latest, check my YouTube page (links below).
