Kayla is a member of the legendary NZ Country Music family, The Greaves family, with her grandfather being NZ Recording Artist (The Late) Rusty Greaves and her Uncle being International Recording Artist (The Late) Kevin Greaves. Her Mother and Uncle head up one of the Top Country bands in Auckland and Waikato “Midnight Special”.
As she gears up to release her debut EP, filled with heartfelt tracks like ‘Drinks’ and ‘Dear Little Me’, get ready to connect with her music on a personal level and discover the magic she brings to each performance.
When did you start writing music?
I started at around 11 or 12, with my first song titled “I wanna be a star”. This being a film star or a popstar, whatever I could be. This was around the time that Taylor Swift started doing her thing in the industry and the ongoing theme in my head was that Taylor Swift writes her own songs, therefore so did I. The songs were never great, and I had no outside help with writing as I didn’t really know any other songwriters. Then, with practice, I started to write better songs and now here we are.
What led you to become a music artist, and what advice can you give to others aspiring to make a hit?
My mum is a singer in a band, and so I used to go to a lot of gigs at a very young age, and as soon as I was making full sentences at 3 years old, she put me on stage, and I was singing for large audiences. There’s an adrenaline rush that comes from singing for people that I have always had, and now performing as a career, I can be the person that can create music that people can relate to when their heart is breaking, or when they want to let loose after a stressful day.
My advice to others aspiring to make a hit is to just write songs. Don’t worry about if they’re good or not, but always make sure that you’ve got a hook in the song that gets people thinking about it for hours. Play with different melodies in your head and then record it on your phone so you can just make a story and build it around that melody.
What sets your music apart? What is unique, or at least uncommon?
The music that I am releasing now is honestly what I believe is missing from contemporary music now. I needed a song that speaks about not wanting to drink in town because it’s so expensive and I don’t need to pay for each glass of wine when I can have the whole bottle at home. I couldn’t hear the song that is telling me I’m not at the career/life where I wanted to be at 23 years old, but don’t worry, I’m going to keep trying. There’s a perfect balance between pop and country rock that I have in this EP that I think people are really going to enjoy.
Have you always been interested in music? Was there a particular song/performance that made you say, “Woah! I want to do that!”?
Music has always been in my life because of my mum and my uncles, who are in the industry. With my mum being in a covers band, her singing Simply the Best by Tina Turner, or Independence Day by Martina McBride, there was always a moment of “Woooooow” that I would feel when I saw/heard that. I would say that is what made me want to do this for a career. My uncle, the late Kevin Greaves, was a very hard-working man, and we shared a sincere love for music, and I got to see how hard he worked to secure this career for himself. His entertainment value was unmatched, and I got to learn the importance of capturing the audience through watching him. There was a moment at his funeral when someone had said, “Kevin was a full-time entertainer”… he had no day job. And how did he do that? He worked hard at his craft, and he worked hard to build his name up and become the novelty that he was. I listened to that sentence at his funeral and thought, “I can do that, I just need to work really hard, and I can do it,” so here I am.
What are your ambitions as a songwriter and musician from here?
I want to continue gigging and recording and releasing music. I have just moved to Brisbane, Australia, so I am just getting my name out there in a new country. I would love love love to tour at some stage, opening for some great performers, sing at Tamworth, Gympie, CMC Rocks, and as many festivals as I possibly can. My songwriting comes organically from living my life, so I will come up with a melody in the car driving somewhere or at night when I’m trying to sleep, and I’ll make a little voice memo so I can write later. I just want to keep working, after all, it’s my favourite thing to do.
What has been the most challenging aspect of your current releases?
The business, I would say. The writing and recording is fun, and performing for people is great, but I find my main challenge is marketing myself to get people to listen to my music. It’s not a natural human thing to do, and it’s not in my personality to build myself up like that. But I must remind myself that I have made great music, and this is a tool to ensure that my music is given the recognition that it deserves. I am proud of the music that I have made and the production that has gone into it, and I need people to hear it.
How do you go about writing a song? Do you have a melody in your head and then write the other music for it?
It always starts with a melody or a hookline, or a clever lyric. Something that would catch my attention and make me want to finish the song. And I need to complete the song right then in the moment so I can think clearly, or the thought process will be gone, and I won’t want to finish writing it. Once it’s been written, I’ll come back to it the next day and edit lines that I don’t like for new ones until I’ve got it perfect. From then on, I’ll play music that can accompany the song. I’m not a great guitar player but a simple 4 chord progression is all that I need in my songs because the lyrics and the melody do the work for me.
Do you plan your music releases, or do you just finish a song and release it?
I prefer to plan my music releases. Like I said before, it’s all business, and my songs deserve to be listened to, so I want to choose the time people listen based on the weather outside and the time of year to listen. My first single ‘Drinks’ has been released right before Spring begins and it starts to get warmer outside. I also love the idea of having the EP available as a CD for anyone that wants one and that requires some planning so I’m all for a music release strategy.
What would be a good theme song for your life?
I’ll be there for you—the Friends theme song – the lyrics are too relatable.
If you were a member of the Spice Girls, what would your spice handle be?
Shorty spice: in all photos I have with people, I am clearly the shortest in the group.
What makes you nostalgic?
Watching films that I watched as a child. Harry Potter, Barbie films and Twilight. I’m always reciting the words!
What movie ending really frustrated you? And how would you change it?
La la land and A Star is Born. I watched both films thinking I would get the beautiful happy ending where the couple ends up together and I felt like I was cheated by not getting the happy ending I went to the movie theatre for. Maybe I was at a point in my life where I needed to see a happy ending, but I haven’t watched either film since.
If you were talking to a younger version of you, what advice would you give yourself?
Pick up a damn guitar and practice so you can back yourself at a gig. And don’t worry about what people think and just do what you want to do.
‘Drinks’ is the brainchild of talented producer Dan Cosgrove and was expertly recorded at DC Studio. This vibrant single showcases Kayla Rose’s vocal strengths and her ability to create an electrifying atmosphere that’s perfect for a night in with friends. The polished production brings out the song’s lively essence, ensuring that you feel the party vibe no matter where you are.
Theme and Concept of the Song
On ‘Drinks,’ Kayla Rose captures the essence of enjoying a night at home with friends, especially in times of rising inflation. This catchy anthem encourages you to embrace the joy of hosting a laid-back gathering over costly nights out, celebrating friendship and unforgettable moments from the comfort of your living room.
Song after song, Kayla invites you to connect with the relatable theme of ‘Drinks,’ which emphasizes finding joy in simple pleasures. As she unfolds the story of gathering with friends, enjoying inexpensive wine and beer, you can’t help but feel the excitement of a home party. This track serves as a reminder that the best memories are often made in the comfort of your home, surrounded by good company and great music.
Overview of the EP
Details about Kayla Rose’s debut EP show a collection of heartfelt tracks reflecting her experiences as a 20-something navigating life and relationships. Set to release in September, this EP invites you into her world through catchy melodies and relatable lyrics that resonate with your own journey. Each song feels like a personal diary entry, making it easy for you to connect with her story.
Highlighted Singles: “Drinks” and “Dear Little Me”
For music lovers, the highlighted singles “Drinks” and “Dear Little Me” are the standout tracks that encapsulate Kayla’s vibrant energy and relatable storytelling. These songs not only showcase her powerhouse vocals but also invite you to enjoy life’s moments, whether at home with friends or reflecting on your personal growth.
Drinks takes you on a fun-filled journey celebrating the joys of enjoying a night at home with friends, reminding you that great parties don’t always happen at bars and clubs. With its infectious beat and catchy lyrics, it’s the perfect anthem for a cozy gathering. On the flip side, Dear Little Me offers a reflective moment, encouraging you to embrace your journey and all the lessons learned along the way. Both tracks highlight Kayla’s impressive versatility and are sure to leave you dancing and reflecting in equal measure.
Stage Presence and Energy
Comparison to her contemporaries sets Kayla Rose apart with her electrifying stage presence and infectious energy. When she steps on stage, you can’t help but be drawn in, as she brings a vivacity that transforms any venue into a lively party. Whether performing classic hits or her original tracks, Kayla ensures you’re not just a spectator but a participant, ready to dance and enjoy the night.
Vocal Comparisons: Kelsea Ballerini, Maren Morris, Taylor Swift
If you’re a fan of country pop, you’ll be thrilled to discover Kayla Rose’s powerful vocal ability, reminiscent of beloved artists like Kelsea Ballerini, Maren Morris, and Taylor Swift. Each of these singers has carved their own path in the industry, and Kayla brings that same level of artistry and charm to her performances, ensuring you’re engaged from the first note to the last.
Vocal Comparisons: Kelsea Ballerini, Maren Morris, Taylor Swift
| Kelsea Ballerini | Dynamic energy and catchy hooks |
| Maren Morris | Folk-inspired storytelling and rich vocals |
| Taylor Swift | Versatile sound that crosses genres |
Ballerini’s bubbly charm resonates with Kayla’s vivacious stage presence, while Maren Morris’ heartfelt storytelling mirrors Kayla’s lyrical depth. Taylor Swift’s cross-genre appeal is reflected in Kayla’s versatile approach, from country rock to the pop hits you love. You’ll feel a connection to their artistry as you experience Kayla’s compelling performances, making her a standout in the music scene.
More About Kayla’s Vocal Style
| Kayla’s Unique Sound | Powerful vocals paired with emotional honesty |
| Connection with Audience | Engaging performances that draw you in |
Conclusively, you have the chance to experience the vibrant energy of Kayla Rose, an incredibly talented singer/songwriter from New Zealand. Her music, especially her exciting new single “Drinks,” will captivate you due to her powerful vocals and engaging stage presence. As she prepares to release her debut EP, you can look forward to more heartfelt and relatable songs that resonate with your own journey. So, get ready to dance and enjoy a fantastic night in with Kayla and her infectious melodies!
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