Kelly McMichael

Kelly McMichael is an innovative multi-instrumentalist whose instant-classic songwriting challenges expectations in the alternative pop/rock realm, sprinkling in hints of jazz and psychedelia. Her commanding stage presence and defiant lyrics channel resistance while drawing listeners in with nostalgic sounds. Based in St. John’s, Newfoundland, and originally from Peterborough, Ontario, McMichael’s independently released debut album Waves (2021) was shortlisted for the Polaris Music Prize and won the ECMA for Best Rock Recording. Her sophomore album After The Sting Of It (2024) made the Polaris Music Prize long list. Kelly’s career kicked off with the DIY feminist synth band Rouge, in Guelph, ON. She was recruited to play with Gentleman Reg in Toronto, sparking a career as a side player, later joining Tim Baker, The Burning Hell, and Sarah Harmer. Her late-bloomer breakthrough allowed Kelly to shift focus to her solo career. McMichael’s second album, After The Sting Of It (2024) leans into bold art-rock production and ethereal sonic landscapes. Kelly’s resilient and empathetic voice moves through themes of tear down and rebirth, gliding from biting grit to soft bliss. The album charted on alternative radio stations nationally, including CBC, The Verge, and campus radio. Critics have said she sounds “even better live” than on record. Kelly McMichael tours regularly and can ignite a large crowd with the band or induce tears as a solo performer.