Please introduce yourself. What do you do? Why? What do you want people to know about you?
Hi there! My name is Kacey McClain and I am a singer and songwriter based in LA. I make music that is inclusive, gets in your bones, and combines the production of infectious electropop, with the nuance of more delicate stylings of singer-songwriter inspired lyric.
I have collaborated with #1 Billboard songwriter Richard Harris (Christina Aguilera, Jason Derulo, Lady Gaga, Beyonce, Bon Jovi), Grammy-nominated producer Lucas Sader (Sting, Alison Wonderland), and many more. My most recent single, Unwanted, has been one of my most exciting releases.
I’ve been fortunate to receive reviews on major pop culture outlets like CelebSecrets and CelebMix, and I’ve had a handful of influencers already gravitate toward using it in their own original content.
What qualities make you different and unique from everyone else in the industry?
Growing up as a Southern Baptist in Greenville, TX, I was exposed both to the love but also toxicity that comes with growing up in a religious community. I was not exposed to secular music until age 10, when I first heard “Hero” by Mariah Carey, and soon after began falling in love with popular music, particularly after hearing Avril Lavigne’s then-new album The Best Damn Thing.
Originally following my passion for Animal Science (specifically that of cats and penguins), I was ultimately encouraged by my college dean to pursue my passion for music instead. You can see the theme of Penguins throughout my content and music. More on another unique quality that has shaped who I am under your question about challenges.
Describe THAT moment when you realized you’re doing what you were born to do.
The moment I knew that I am doing what I born to do was at the Viper Room, a historic music venue in West Hollywood. After completing my set, I exited the stage where I encountered an enthusiastic audience member. She approached me in tears, and told me that she had flown all the way from Australia to see me because she is a huge fan.
She went on to share that she listened to my music all the time and that it had been truly life saving for her. My music had helped her grapple and work through both her depression and suicidal thoughts. I was touched and felt so honored and gratified that my music was supporting another soul in this way. I was brought to tears and we hugged and talked for a while, before she had to run back to the airport to fly back to Australia.
What’s been the biggest challenge you’ve had to go through and how did you grow through it?
So I was hospitalized, isolated and quarantined due to a life-threatening C. Diff infection. Forward of this traumatizing experience, I have since become an advocate for more education surrounding this little-known but deadly illness. I am equally passionate about the destigmatization of eating disorders, and the holistic, continuous way in which living with one affects everyday lifestyle.
In my art, I seek to aid fans in finding their own voices, inspiring listeners to overcome their own mental health struggles, and fully accept and love who they are. Departing from the hospital on the heels of my C. Diff infection and near-deadly experience, I truly woke up and realized that I had to start living and doing what I loved in life.
Who are the TOP 3 people you’d want to meet that could elevate your career or business? Why these specific individuals?
Number one, I’m very inspired by Julia Michaels. I would love to get the chance to write with her: I think she is a brilliant singer songwriter and artist and I feel like writing with someone such as herself gives you so much knowledge and extra tools with which to create and express your creative ideas.
Next, I would love to meet Travis Barker. I just love what he’s doing, especially with his label. There are so many questions I would ask just to pick his brain, and I could grow so much by tapping into his vast knowledge. Last, I have to say Adele. I think Adele is brilliant.
Not only do I love her song craft, but also, she is a business woman. Being able to chat one on one with her about both her creative journey as well as her ability to establish a worldwide brand for herself as the CEO of her own artistic company would be incredible and inspiring.
Drop your social media links.
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kaceymcclain
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kaceymcclainmusic/
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4R7sMYQMTm0jqnkhBccAMn?si=ht093Q2uQHSueoGprbXahQ