Kelly Manu
Kelly Manu’s life has not been an easy; badly injured in a car accident, her treatments led to the discovery of advanced-stage cervical cancer. Being bed-ridden for three years might break an ordinary woman’s spirit, but Manu was able to find inspiration and a fuller, more intimate relationship with God instead. That personal growth culminated in a series of award-winning songs that touched people around the country. Manu’s enthusiasm and faith is truly a comfort to those who hear her message, and many have been able to share in the power of her conviction through her new single ‘Would You Believe’. Independent reporter Brandon Scott recently caught up with the deeply spiritual musician to talk about her faith and her future in music.
BRANDON: When did you first get that feeling that your music career was gaining momentum?
KELLY: When I received a call from GMA Canada in 2012 asking me how I've managed to get so much attention without a manager.
BRANDON: Your song ' ' is receiving a positive listener response on radio. What was your initial reaction when you first heard your song playing on radio?
KELLY: Total excitement, hoping that I might finally have a hit in the Gospel industry.
BRANDON: What was the inspiration behind your debut radio single?
KELLY: After what I've been through with my health, I knew if I could be healed anyone else could also receive that kind of a miracle, if they just believe.
BRANDON: It is often said that great art arises from difficult experience. Is there something in your life experience thus far that you would describe as the ‘catalyst’ or ‘fuel’ for your desire to create music?
KELLY: A preacher man told me years before I started writing and singing that my music was going to be known around the world. I truly thought he was crazy because I had never written or sang outside of back up singing, but when I took ill, I started writing a journal. Someone read my journal and said, “You have some song-like notes here.” I put it to music and just never stopped. That preacher man knew something I didn't.
BRANDON: How would you characterize yourself as an artist/musician? (Ex. Down-to-earth, serious, fun-loving, complicated…)
KELLY: I'm a down to earth and a loving, caring person.
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BRANDON: What has your experience been like working with the other people on your team?
KELLY: It's been a real learning experience. I know things now that I never knew before, like beats, back up singing, etc. My team is great.
BRANDON: Did you come from a musical background? Are there other musicians in your family?
KELLY: Yes, my mother is a Gospel singer.
BRANDON: What do you find most rewarding about being an artist? What do you find most challenging?
KELLY: The most rewarding is to express what I'm feeling, what I've been through, and what I believe. The most frustrating has been trying to get radio play.
BRANDON: Who are your role models in music?
KELLY: I love Barbra Mandrel, who I was blesssed to meet, but, of course, also my mom.
BRANDON: Describe your best or most memorable performance.
KELLY: My most memorable performance was at a GMA Convention. I was received so well and sold out of my CDs there. However, I'm looking forward to my upcoming performance in Nashville next month.
BRANDON: What advice would you give to young, aspiring artists out there who are unsure and need guidance?
KELLY: Don't give up. What's most important is to listen to advice—none of us know it all.
BRANDON: What's next for you as an artist? Is there a new single in the works? If so, what can you tell us about it?
KELLY: I continue to write, and I'm recording new stuff every month, with a goal of a new album within the next year.
BRANDON: I'm looking forward to hearing your new album! We expect to hear great things about your career in the near future!