SIMPLY SIX: Kelly Harper

Kelly Harper is a singer/songwriter from

1. For many artists, they cite a defining moment for themselves when they knew they wanted to be a singer.  For many it was the appearance of Elvis on the Ed Sullivan show, to another generation it was the Beatles’ appearance on Sullivan half a decade later.  Is there such a defining moment for you?

My defining moment was sitting in a restaurant in NYC, I was writing in my notebook and it just hit me that this was what I wanted to do, along with when I was younger listening to the artist "Jewel" and other songwriters I admired. 

2. When you’re not creating music what are you listening to?  Who are some of your favorites?

My range is so diverse. I listen to classical, jazz, inspirational,  pop, rap. I am into listening to Nina Simone, Lily Allen, andTori Amos right now, some of my new songs are reflecting a bit of a jazz vibe with still being pop.

3. What would you say is your greatest moment so far as an artist, either on record or live?

I would say being able to record and write recently with Christopher Ward, he wrote Black Velvet with A. Myles

4.  Do you believe music can change the world or is just something to listen to?   How much can music influence current events?

Of course music and change the world for sure, Music is such a huge influence to people. Music can influence current events so much, especially if the music is talking about things that are not good for kids to listen to. Hence; the rise in suicide, depression, drugs, and rebellion. We are the people kids/teenager/people look up to, we need to set a good example.

5. How has technology affected the music industry?  How has technology affected your career as a musician?

Music has changed sooooooo much, some for the better, and some for the worse. It has affected it in a bad way, because the record stores are out of business almost and people aren't buying music like they used to, so we are having to come up with other ways to make music and brand yourself.

6.  Now for my Barbara Walters question:  If you were a pair of shoes what type of shoes would you be?

               I would be a pair of "Chloe's" love her shoes they fit my very well.