Most of us only dream about making big life changes in order to follow our dreams. As for Amanda Keeles, she took a leap of faith with both feet and landed firmly on new ground.
Releasing her debut album just a month ago, this London, ON-based country singer-songwriter delivers heartfelt stories as if she has been producing music for decades. Amanda might only have officially one year under her belt in her newfound music career, however, it is clear she’s put in plenty of effort behind the scenes to finally break out with this level of vibrancy.
Her first single and album title track, “Can’t Stop Me Now,” is the perfect introduction to this artist and her music. Amanda invites us to groove to her upbeat rhythms, while telling us her story of reaching that breaking point to spark a change of pace. She expresses her determination to follow her heart on the journey she was meant to pursue, and there is nothing that will get in her way: “You can’t stop me now / I’ve got music in my blood / I’ve got a bucket list a mile long and it’s filling up my cup.” One can’t help but cheer her on and dance along to this empowering lyrical piece – and from her press release, Amanda preaches that “you have to make your own destiny happen,” which is precisely what she is doing.
Keeles shares more about her self-released debut album: “It was like putting a collection of my life’s journey into one album. Every song that I’ve written has been during one point in my life, my milestones, major events, and turning points. To have that all collected on one album is simply euphoric.” Amanda helps us all appreciate that it’s never too late to take a chance on yourself and share your message with the world, her experiences are undoubtedly relatable to many – myself included. She presents her milestones so beautifully, supported by melodies that carry her emotions from start to finish.
Over this past year, Amanda has made positive traction in the music scene; reaching #5 on the Canadian Country Indie Top 100 and featured on SiriusXM’s ‘Top of The Country’ (rightfully so). Supporting this album is a robust list of musical veterans, Keeles working with GRAMMY and CCMA nominated producer Johnny Gasparic, JUNO Award and CCMA winners Justin Kudding (Brett Kissel), Chris Byrne (The Road Hammers), Joey McIntyre (Duane Steele), along with Keith Floen and Therry Lawson of The Travelling Mabels, and Bill Blayney.
Both this single and album make for a fabulous listen. I highly recommend adding Amanda Keeles to your country music playlist right now!
Photo Credit: Jorge Polio Photography
Jess has always enjoyed a wide range of music genres and eras. Connecting deeply with classical music, she played cello from grade school through high school, and although no longer actively playing, her affinity for finding an emotional connection to music is still strong. Residing in central PA, she is new to the Canadian music scene and enjoys listening to new artists as a way to break away from “the usual.” Jess is an avid yogi who often finds a sliver of peace while on the yoga mat with good music playing in the background.
