The Flyah Magazine crew had a chance to catch up with Mason Kelly. Hear the great things he had to say about his career and more!
Where are you from and could you tell us about your upbringing?
I’m from Birmingham, AL. I was raised by a single mother, and I had an amazing upbringing. There was never a dull moment with my mom. We went on movie dates and traveled a lot. Early in life, I had a strong sense of community and family. Although I am an only child, my family is huge and very close. My maternal grandmother is 1 of 13 children. We always gathered for special family events and holidays. In fact, we still do. The love was immense and I felt it. As a kid, I started singing in church, talent shows and subsequently joined show choir. My love for performance was solidified.
What genre of music do you make, and where do you find the inspiration?
I lean towards R&B with a bit of a pop flare. I don’t like to categorize myself because I love all music, and draw inspiration from all music. In the future, I plan to make genre bending music. I also find inspiration from real life situations and stories. I try to write from my own emotions and I love to write from the experiences of others. I pull from legends such as Michael Jackson, Beyonce, and Stevie Wonder. I also draw inspiration from Classical sounds as I studied Classical Voice for 2 years at Belmont University in Nashville, TN.
Could you tell us about your latest project?
My latest project “Troll” is a favorite of mine. It is a song that I believe everyone who has ever dived in the dating pool can relate to. You have either been a Troll in the relationship or have been Trolled longing for someone who just cannot satisfy your needs. I also got to showoff vocally due to the raw emotion of the song.
Who are some of your greatest influences?
Some of my greatest musical influences are John Legend and Jazmine Sullivan. Vocally, I am often compared to John Legend and I like to lean into that comparison because he has a beautiful voice. Being compared to John Legend is an amazing compliment. Jazmine Sullivan’s story telling and vocal technique is that I strive for in my music.
Are there any notable people that helped you along the way?
MY MOM! She has been my number 1 fan throughout my music journey. She uplifts me, and always helps me in any way I need whether that’s financially or motivationally. At times she has to give out some of that tough love, but she always has my back and my best interest at heart.
Besides music what are your hobbies and fun things you like to do?
In additional to music, I model professionally. I am signed with several agencies in New York, Tennessee and London. I have been featured on a billboard in Time Square and you can currently find me in Sephora as part as a Glow Recipe campaign. Modeling is such fun. I enjoy dressing up and living the fantasy for a day or however long the photoshoot takes. I also enjoy shopping, and I am a foodie. You may not believe that by looking at me because of my slim build, but I like food. I’m a fan of the outdoors and nature. I enjoy kayaking and camping. I have many layers.
What can we expect from you in the near future?
I will be dropping a 5 song EP in the near future, so stay on the lookout you will be hearing my name again and often!
CHECK OUT HIS TRACK ON SPOTIFY
