Civil Interview: Tori Kelly Opens Up On Smokey Robinson Tribute, Being Called The Female Sam Smith & More
by Staff Editor
Many are still talking about your amazing performance at the BET Awards last month. How was that experience?
Tori Kelly: Oh gosh, BET [Awards] for me was a huge honor, and even just being there. I grew up watching that awards show. Even just being there I was just geeking out, so the fact that I got to perform, and on top of that, honor such a legend like Smokey Robinson was a dream come true for me.
What kind of impact has Smokey had on your own sound?
Tori Kelly: For me, what stands out about him is the fact that he has such a vision, and he does everything. He’s not just an artist, but he’s a songwriter and producer. He’s kind of done it all himself, which is something I always wanted to do growing up. That’s what I’ve been doing with the first couple EP’s I put out, and now with my album being very hands-on. He’s definitely inspired me in that way, and to be in control of your own craft.
Congratulations on releasing your album! It’s been doing amazing on the charts. The build-up to it has been pretty huge. What’s it like to finally have it out there and perform those songs?
Tori Kelly: It is a huge relief, and it feels like a weight has been lifted off my shoulders. I guess just making an album was something, as a kid, I thought you could just snap your fingers and put it out. Being older now, it’s been such a learning experience to just go through the process and put together all of the songs. It feels amazing to finally have it be in people’s hands. It’s surreal on one end, but I’m very proud of it too because of how much I put into it.
What track would you say means the most to you?
Tori Kelly: That’s a hard question because they’re like all my little babies! There’s a song on there called “Unbreakable Smile,” which is pretty much the theme of the album. That was the first song that I wrote for the album from when I was in a really vulnerable place. I had zero songs written for the album, and that was the first one that came out. I was hearing these negative things about myself, with different doubts and up’s and down’s of my career, so I was just out of place. I came to the conclusion that I can say all of these things, but at the end of the day I’m still going to be smiling. That’s the message I wanted to give with the whole album.
Some people who saw you on the BET Awards are now deeming you the “Female Sam Smith.” What are your thoughts on that nickname?
Tori Kelly: That’s a huge compliment. I love Sam Smith! I got to see him live for one of his first shows in the States, so I’ve been following him for a while. I think we’re kind of mutual fans of each other, and have been following each other’s careers. It’s a huge compliment to hear that.