For someone who landed her first record deal at just 16, Kira Isabella has not let her foot off the gas at all. Ten years later she reflects on the single and album "Love Me Like That" that broke her into the industry and onto country’s big stage. The opening act on tours with Carrie Underwood and Terri Clark throughout 2013, helped crown her as the 2013 CCMA Female Artist of the Year.
Almost 7 years later I caught up with Kira just after the 2019 OCM Awards to discuss where she’s at now and what the near future holds.
Ottawa Life Magazine: Hi Kira! Welcome back to Ottawa, how were the OCM Awards for you?
Kira Isabella: It was amazing, always wonderful coming home. We played two fantastic shows, one being at the awards itself. Getting to play with the caliber of artists that were a part of that evening is always humbling, and obviously a thrill.
You also finished up a great tour with Aaron Pritchett recently? How was that?
Yes I did! I’ve been playing the same circuit for 10 years now and it just keeps getting better and better. We did 35 shows in 40 days and it was an absolute blast, he’s such a great entertainer!
Wow! 35 in 40 days? That’s amazing, it’s every artists dream to play shows like that on the big stage. You mentioned that you’ll be hitting the festival circuit as well soon. Does that mean there is a new single on the horizon?
Yes! At this point the single is called “Soon” and I can’t wait! I’d always identified as more of a vocalist, but since the collaborating on my first album, I’ve fallen in love with writing. I had the amazing privilege to write with some fantastic writers and producers for the new record that I’ve looked up to. Getting to write songs with them has been surreal. I’ll be spending July in Nashville finishing up the new album, then rehearsals will start for the new show, and finally we hit the road!
There has been a lot of talk in the industry lately in regards to the inequality of men vs women and how the industry caters heavily to the male side. There are some heavy hitting women from the industry taking a stand like Reba McEntire for instance. Any thoughts on that?
Well, I Iook up to all those women, especially Reba, and the women in country have been through so much. I would be lying if said I don’t feel the way as most probably do. I still think it’s a great time for country, but I am happy that it is being acknowledged. Listen to girl power on air, Country 101.1 in Ottawa, Amanda Kingsland has amazing thoughts on this subject and I appreciate all she is doing on the subject.
To me this dynamic, well spoken country artist continues to have a bright future in country music and she stands out as a strong female, one that can emerge successful in a pool of bros. Looking forward to her new single!
