Kelly Derrickson’s “I Am” Scorches on the iTunes Charts

You just recently charted #11 on the Country iTunes Album Chart and #77 on the All Genres Album Chart with your album "I Am". How does that feel?

Pretty damn good since this album was written a few years back and is still getting so much traction. It is a very important piece of work for me and all who were involved in the creation of I Am as it tells the history of my First Nation people and the love we have of the earth.

What do you like most about making music?

I love everything about music… I love the process of creation; I love being in the studio and recording more than anything and seeing such an important subject come to life. But mostly I love sharing my music with people and hearing how it changed their lives.

What inspired you to start playing and making music?

Music has been on my soul and heart since I was born. I knew I wanted to sing from the first moment. Music is in my blood, was always around me growing up my family played banjos fiddles and guitars.

Describe your creative process when you write new music.

I don’t have any way to describe my creative process. Sometimes it flows like water coming from the top other times I Have to dig deeper. My dad has been a huge mentor for me in all my subject matters. I believe the songs ultimately come from The Creator.

Who's your ideal musician to collaborate with and why?

I have written this last album with my boyfriend benny and some great Nashville friends and co-writers. Benny is a drummer and I like working with a drummer’s brain. Been very inspiring.

Are there any musicians who inspire you? What qualities do you admire about them?

I’m inspired by musicians who are so passionate about their work. It’s a love that we as musicians would die if we didn’t have that outlet.

Which skills have you gained that help you perform effectively as a musician?

I think it’s important to Be able to take constructive criticism. As a musician you’ll get 100 nos before you’ll get one yes. And to keep practicing and getting better at your craft. And listening to all kinds of music enjoy music like you enjoy the flavors of different foods.

Which qualities do you think make a great musician?

It takes dedication and love to make a great musician it has to come from the heart and soul, or it doesn’t mean anything. You Either got it or you don’t.

Is there another musician you've mentored or trained? Describe what you've done to help them.

I Have mentored and worked with many younger kids and teens that are trying to get into music. I’ve given them singing lessons and lots of encouragement. It’s an amazing feeling to see someone love something as much as you did many years ago and watch them excel!

What's the best piece of advice another musician ever gave you?

Music makes the world go around. Keep going!

What's next for you?

Next, I’m in the process of preparing for album #3.

What other awards have you won?

I have won best country artist a Coachella valley music awards, best new artist at The Indigenous Music Awards. I won Best Female Artist two years in a row at The Native native American Music Awards ( Nammys) as well as Best Music Video for I Am.

Anyone you'd like to thank?

I’d like to thank The Creator for giving me a voice and a platform to change people’s minds and hearts.