Kealoana is a local musician who is passionate about her career and the power of her art. She performed as part of Blacktown’s Summer Streets Festival, and is a regular at the Western Sydney Jam Session with her trio, The Top Deck Band. She was recently awarded a Creative Arts Fund grant, which she will use to record original music, and promote and distribute her new works digitally.
How did you get into the entertainment industry?
I’ve been singing in the corporate industry since I was 15 years old, entertaining with my father, who is also a musician. They did 4-hour gigs, and I began as a stand-in for the main singers. I eventually started my own trio called The Top Deck Band, and I’m also a solo artist. I have been pursuing this art for about a year.
We know you have a beautiful voice; do you play any instruments?
I sing and play the piano, and I also play a bit of guitar. I write all my own songs on both instruments.
What is your favourite part of performing?
My favourite part of performing is being able to deliver a song emotionally and feeling someone else connect to the song. I enjoy giving music to others and when performing live, the energy comes from the musicians and audience.
Why is music so important to you?
I believe music brings colour and expression to people’s lives. It’s a language in itself that everyone can understand because it speaks to our emotions. Music is vital, like water and air, and so many people connect and unite through it. After all, so many people are willing to pay to go to a concert and sit or dance next to complete strangers, because they all feel a connection through the music.