Courtney Keil Interview for The Good Kind

It's the first taste of new music since her acclaimed debut album, The Good Kind, released earlier this year. Country songstress, Courtney Keil, is drawing on the queen of hearts in her catchy new single, 'Nothin' Like a Sure Bet'.

"Tonight my losing streak is through / I could win it all on you," sing's Courtney in her unmistakable honeyed vocal. The single is rampant with clever risk taking references, delivered with a heft of swagger - a classic country feel-good song with a dash of attitude and the confidence of only accepting
the best.

The idea came to Courtney unexpectedly. "The concept first dropped when I was in that half-awake, half-asleep state - it's not usually how song ideas come to me, so I quickly put some thoughts down around what it's like to gamble on love" she recalls. The singer-songwriter then penned the track
alongside producer Rod McCormack and Music City hit-maker, Sally Barris.

Brilliantly produced by multi-instrumentalist Rod McCormack at The Music Cellar - who intertwined banjo, dobro, mandolin and acoustic guitar as the core instruments of the track - which gave the song an authentic country twang, bold and full of sass.

For the track's accompanying video, Courtney once again enlisted the expertise of 5x Golden Guitar winner Duncan Toombs of The Filmery. The clip is a perfect example of light and shade, highlighting the singer's confidence and sass, while still showing her carefree side.

"We were fortunate to film on location at the Hawkesbury Brewing Co on the Central Coast. I fell in love with the venue the first time I stepped inside for a weekend gig and am so grateful that they allowed me to film in their space. Duncan and I had a fun day, experimenting with their giant LED
screen, used different aspects of the brewery and added some quirky scenes using playing cards - as you can see, I am no card trick expert!"

The singer has been turning heads since her 2020 debut single 'I Just Wanna Hold You' reached #15 on national Country radio and was named as a Vanda & Young Global Songwriting Competition Top 40 finalist. It began the road to her highly anticipated album, which debuted as the #1 Australian
Album on the iTunes Country Australian Album chart. Proving that more than lady luck is on her side, she also took home 'Best Female Vocal' at the 2023 Australian Country Music People's Choice Awards in Tamworth.

Since opening for artists including The Whitlams Black Stump Band, Gina Jeffreys, Tania Kernaghan, Karise Eden and Andrew Swift on stages around the country, Courtney has honed a magnetic live show. She's recently joined forces with fellow artist Bonnie Kellet for 'The Fierce & Fearless Tour' –
two of Australia's sharpest young guns sharing stories and sass. The next stop on the tour bus is none other than the 2024 Tamworth Country Music Festival.

'Nothin' Like A Sure Bet' is certain to be a crowd pleaser for Courtney with its effortless hooks and playful production harp back to what has garnered her so much praise thus far. Off the back of her recent debut album this spirited track adds further depth to the artist and songwriter Courtney Keil.

https://www.courtneykeil.com/

Courtney Keil Interview

How would you describe your music? 

The foundation of my music is always to return to the influence of some of the music greats I listened to growing up including Shania Twain, Trisha Yearwood, Fleetwood Mac and The Eagles and put my modern twist on it. I love 90s country so I take any chance I can to incorporate that sound mixed with contemporary country vibes.

Can you tell us about (your new song/upcoming gig/video), what was the inspiration?

The inspiration for my latest single 'Nothin' Like A Sure Bet' came to me quite unexpectedly one afternoon after a nap. I was in a half asleep and half awake state. I thought about gambling on love and risk taking, to then put everything on the line for just that right person. This song has a pretty healthy mix of sass, self confidence and fun.

What are your musical influences?

I love taking inspiration from many different artists and genres. Currently, I am absolutely loving Lainey Wilson, her songwriting and performance style is incredible. She's crushing it in so many areas, it's so great to see female artists really cutting through.

Do you prefer performing live or recording?

It's a tricky one because both are SO fun. I think if I had to pick, I would have to say live performances as I get to connect with people and share my love of music.

What should we expect from your upcoming tour?

The 'Fierce & Fearless' tour that I am taking on the road with my good friend and fellow Country Artist Bonnie Kellet is all about supporting each other in music, banding together and empowering women. We are so excited to take this show to the 2024 Tamworth Country Music Festival, playing our headline show on Sunday 21 January at Moonshiners, with more dates to be announced very soon!

What motivates you most when writing music?

I love taking moments from day to day experiences and blending them into a song. That is the best thing about country music, storytelling! Sometimes it is fun to put on the creative hat of imagination as well to tap into what others may have experienced.

Which music/artists are you currently listening to?

Lainey Wilson - obviously! I also am always drawn back to the classics of 90s country, Fleetwood Mac, The Eagles and one of my favourite bands Journey.

What or who was your inspiration to go into the music industry?

Since I was a little girl I have always loved music, so I feel that I was naturally drawn into it. My paternal Grandmother was a country singer in the 50s. I never got to meet her but what is cool though is that I have country music in my blood.

If you could collaborate with another artist, who would it be?

I'd have to say Keith Urban, Dolly Parton or Trisha Yearwood - they would be a dream come true!!

What is the biggest challenge you have faced in the music industry?

Navigating Covid and lockdowns was definitely a big challenge but I tried to take it in my stride. It taught me to be flexible with things that are out of your control and adapt in the face of adversity.

What's next, for you?

2024 is going to be a big year, looking forward to getting out on the road touring, while creating new music and sharing another new single very soon!! Keep your eyes and ears peeled.

Can you share your socials? (links please)

https://www.facebook.com/itscourtneykeil/

https://www.instagram.com/itscourtneykeil/

https://www.tiktok.com/@itscourtneykeil

https://twitter.com/courtneykeil

https://open.spotify.com/artist/6jbFCUWWQtpzKKCgmfnFwe?si=m-MeAenkTZ6gryRWxuJqpw&nd=1

https://www.youtube.com/c/CourtneyKeil