Meet Garland Kelley | Indie Artist & Music Producer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Garland Kelley and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Garland, how do you think about risk?
Risk is inherent to living and I think it’s important to take some risks in life. Life is short and I’d rather try and fail than never know. Being an artist and musician is a huge risk but when you follow your dream and passion, the journey is the reward.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am an Indie artist, particularly indie-rock and indie-folk. I am releasing my next single “The Waters of Galilee” on Friday, July 12th which may already be out by the time someone reads this. I am excited to share my songs and am looking forward to connecting with people who relate with my music!
The road to where I am now was certainly not easy and there is always a long journey ahead but I am excited for what the future holds. Overcoming challenges, doubts, and fears can be difficult at times but having a firm foundation at home makes everything easier.
I have learned many lessons along the way and continue to learn new lessons every day. I feel the most important lesson is to focus on your love and passion for music in order to be honest and authentic. Being yourself will always resonate with people the most and I want to build real relationships with my music.
If you would like to support an up-and-coming indie artist, please follow me on my journey and consider listening to my music! I am passionate about connecting with every person that supports me.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I am a nature-oriented person and a home-body so you are more likely to find me hiking, running, kayaking, or at home writing than being out and about downtown. Whenever I am downtown, you would most likely see me in Printer’s Alley at Skull’s Rainbow Room for the acclaimed burlesque show run by my incredible wife, Tessa Mendoza. Incredible show, music, food, and atmosphere. You can also find me supporting some of my favorite artists and friends in town.
I am a major foodie and love to try new places as well as frequent my favorite spots. Flour Your Dreams in Hermitage has become one of my new favorite spots. It is right next door and the food, people, and vibe are excellent. I am also a big fan of Avo, a superb vegan restaurant in West Nashville. I love international food as well and frequent Indian restaurants, Thai restaurants, authentic Mexican restaurants, Japanese restaurants, Ethiopian restaurants, Korean restaurants, and any other diverse food I can find!
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are so many people and groups to thank. First and foremost, I’d like to thank my wife, Tessa Mendoza, and my stepdaughter Alice for being such abundant sources of love and joy in my life. I’d also like to thank my family including my grandparents, parents, sister, aunts, and stepdad. My family is most important in my life.
I want to give a shoutout to Affinity and Jam Factory for being such incredible booking company to work for and for the steady gigs they provide. I am beyond grateful!
I would also like to thank Emerald Empire Band for being such a great corporate band to work for and the awesome group of musicians I get to work with. Definitely give them a call for any of your corporate, wedding, or high-energy event needs.
Last but not least, I want to thank all of my friends for their support and encouragement. I am fortunate and grateful to have such incredible people in my life.
Website: https://www.GarlandKelleyMusic.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/garlandkelleymusic
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/garlandkmusic
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/garlandkelleymusic
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/garlandkelleymusic.com
Other: https://linktr.ee/garlandkelleymusic
https://open.spotify.com/artist/2pQdSvL6AJiU4slb1O6jGY?si=onG76oNLSOG7l51vqWJNsg
Image Credits
Bexx Chin