Meet Courtney Kelly | Recording Artist & Motivational Speaker

We had the good fortune of connecting with Courtney Kelly and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Courtney, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
One thing about the music/entertainment industry that outsiders are probably unaware of is that the artistic and creative components are often the easiest parts. It’s easy to write and record music. It’s everything else that goes into being an artist, especially a good one, that makes it difficult. There’s a lot of business and logistical things that go into it behind the scenes. And many of them aren’t as fun as the artistry but are necessary. Lastly, you aren’t just performing when you are on stage or in the studio. You perform when you are networking, interacting and connecting with fans, at photo and video shoots, and posting content on social media. You really have to have a passion for music so as not to get exhausted by all the hard work it takes, especially when you don’t see the fruits of your labor right away.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
As a rapper, I really enjoy making music that makes people feel powerful, confident, and rich in all things in life. Rich in joy, rich in hope, rich in love, rich in success, and rich in resilience. Life can be so challenging, draining, and isolating sometimes, so I use my art to energize and recenter myself and to unpack and overcome things I’m dealing with. I know others feel the same way I do and are often going through some of the same things, so I want my art to make them feel seen, understood and reenergized to get back on the horse and keep living and enjoying life.

What sets me apart from others is definitely my story and what motivates me to do music. I’m from a small town called Valdosta, GA and I graduated from Duke University and Baylor University. I have a very successful tech career, but every day I choose to be an artist because it’s what I love. It’s what brings me the greatest joy and fulfillment in life. Unlike many, this is not something I just woke up yesterday and decided to do. I’ve chosen artistry since 14. It’s not a get rich quick scheme for me. I’m not in it for the money. Funny enough, there’s been times my management team has scolded me for doing too many shows for free. We all have a purpose in life, and I feel mine is to connect with and empower people through music and my creativity.

My journey as an artist hasn’t always been easy. Honestly, sometimes I get so discouraged especially when I see that the value of real talent seems to have decreased, but I am encouraged that we all have our own path in life and what God has for me is for me. It’s not a matter of if, but when. I’ve accomplished a lot already like opening up for MC Lyte and Rick Ross and getting booked to speak and perform at NBA All Star Weekend. I’ve performed all over the country from NYC to Boise, Idaho. It’s just the beginning for me still, so I’m excited for what is to come.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I’m a rapper, and I’m the complete opposite of a homebody, but unless I’m working, so doing a show, networking, etc, I’m really not trying to be in the city. If I have to circle the block looking for parking twice, at that point I might just go home. It’s really important to me to have a life outside of music, so alot of my favorite spots have nothing to do with music or clubs. I love the movies, so we’ve got to go to Silverspot Cinemas in Smyrna and see something good and enjoy their banging miso salmon. We’ve got to hit an Atlanta Dream game because I love basketball and I love supporting women’s sports. I love a good brunch, and my go-to spots are Toast, Milk & Honey, and The Blue Rose Art Bistro. I especially love Blue Rose because their blueberry lemonade is bussin’ but because they always feature wonderful art exhibitions on all the walls. Lastly, we’ve got to check out a couple of museums. I’m a huge nerd when it comes to history. My favorite museums in the area right now are the Douglas County Museum of History and Art and the Tutankhamun Exhibition in Norcross.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My success and where I am right now in life and my career could not have been possible without the unwavering support of my family, mentors, friends, and creative team. My mother and siblings have always encouraged me to dream big. Mentors over the years like Joshua Sims Sr., Kelvin Walker, CJ Drisdom, and Ms. Nikki Walker have given me invaluable advice and guidance. My friends are always the loudest in the crowd at my shows. And, my creative team, Jess Allen, Maya Hollin, and Eboni Jae are so instrumental in helping me bring my visions and goals to life. As they say, it takes a village, so it really is a team effort. I am so thankful to everyone in my village.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/courtneykellyxi/?hl=en

Twitter: https://x.com/courtneykellyxi

Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@courtneykellyxi

Image Credits
LilianMichelle Photography
Tabarri Hamilton
Simeon Andrew Mismash
Rebecca Oden