Chasing the Light - New Record
Hey all! I'm Astra Kelly. I'm a singer, songwriter, guitar player, performer and more. I am so grateful that you are considering supporting me in making my next record. So far we've reached almost 60% of the goal thanks to all who have jumped on board to help create this next collection of songs...and the record is 60% finished! We head back into the studio on 4/25. Woo hoo!!
Original GoFundMe Video, Sept. 2016:
Click Here
I knew ever since I was walking that music was where my path would take me. The road has not been easy, but I am blessed to be able to make a living in the music biz. I am equally as passionate about helping other people tap into their music mojo! So beyond performing and songwriting, I've managed recording studios, helped other artists write/produce music, and worked as a vocal coach, studio vocalist, voiceover talent and radio DJ. This is why you'll see all different kinds of rewards here. As you help fund this record, I will be honored to help you with your musical projects and experiences. You can pre-order the album, pick up some other cool merch or if none of the awards appeal to you and you just want to pitch in a couple of bucks for the helluvit, just click "Donate Now" to contribute any amount.
This will be my eigth official record release, but it feels like only the beginning! Not too long ago, life gave me an intense series of catalysts that called for personal and musical transformation. I was inspired to move away from the rock sound I had nurtured for so long, ditch the electric band and re-discover my girl with a guitar roots. I started experimenting and co-writing with as many people as I could. My 2015 release, "Back to Ten" was mostly acoustic guitar and vocals with special guest performers on each tune. It was like coming full circle...BUT it didn't quite define that new sound I was looking for and was still growing into. One of those guests was the lovely and talented Jeff Berkley. The day he came into the studio, plugged in his banjo and started soundchecking, I just started to weep. The sound and his energy were so right and huge in that moment. I knew that day that he would be the one to help that sound and my next batch of tunes come alive. So here we are!
...and here we were, Jeff and I in the studio last year working on that tune for "Back to Ten."
The Nitty Gritty:
I imagine at this point that most folks understand the challenges independant artists face in the digital age where music is almost free and making music is still expensive. When I made my first CD in '96, it was a big deal!! People thought you were famous just for having a CD. I sold enough to pay for my next record and so on. Then I had investors/producers, gifts from family, I used credit cards and traded time with the studios I worked for. This time though, I need your help. I am so honored to be able to produce a collection of songs that are made possible and manifested with your energy and gifts. It's that kind of juju that makes mountains move and songs fly....so let's make some magic!
Here's our budget: Goal $7999
Studio Recording, Mixing and Mastering: $6500
* Will be recorded at Berkley Sound . Jeff is bringing in Bob Sale, Rick Nash and Sam Johnson to play some tracks. It'll be mastered by Grammy Award winning, Gavin Lurssen
Design, Photos, Printing of Merch (CD's, download cards and T's): $1499
**If you choose to take advantage of the "Day in the Studio," the date is Tuesday, April 25th and there'll be another day TBD.
Timeframe and delivery:
We started recording in late Sept. and completed six tunes. There'll be three more and some bonus tracks for a summer release! Physical CD's will be shipped upon arrival or you can pick them up at the release event. If you took advantage of the "Music and Merch" or "Music Package," I'll get you a copy of the latest album, "Back to Ten," ASAP. All rewards/perks should be redeemed before record release date.
Many blessings to you! - Astra