What is your name?
My name is Kilough! It rhymes with high-low – just replace the “h” with a “k”, and you’ve got it made!
What is your genre of music?
My style falls between a few genres, since I mostly take inspiration from folk, pop, Americana, and country.
Give us a little bio about you.
Nashville is my home these days, but I grew up in Georgia. Since then, music has taken me across the country through shows in the Northeast and Southeast. While in the Northeast, I was lucky to have met some amazing musicians and friends, as well as release my debut EP, Latitude. I still work with many of those musicians to this day, and many of them contributed to my most recent EP, States Between. All of my songs come from authentic experiences and emotions, and I pull inspiration from several aspects of my life. No matter the song’s origin, my main goal is for listeners to hear a little of themselves in my music
What made you go into music?
Luckily, I was born into a family that loves music. Growing up, I realized that I didn’t just love music, but that I didn’t want to pursue anything else in life. I picked up various instruments over the years and fell in love with songwriting in the process. There’s nothing I love more than putting my stories and life into songs and sharing them with others. Cut to a few years later, and I’ve been fortunate to have played for a number of audiences and to have released two EPs.
Who are your influences?
It’s hard to narrow it down, but Noah Kahan, Kacey Musgraves, Shakey Graves, and Kaleo have been some consistent influences over the years.
Are you signed?
Currently, I am not signed. Loving the indie lifestyle!
You released your new EP ‘States Between’, tell us more about the EP and the meaning behind the EP.
States Between tells the story of long-distance love in my early 20’s. Each track shows a different side with a slightly different feel, but they all come together to create one well-travelled, modern story of youth, love and nostalgia. States Between is my favorite project to date, and I’m so excited that it’s out for others to enjoy. These years truly took on a life of their own through these songs and stories, and all of the late nights and road trips that went into the EP were well worth it. From the Carolinas to Tennessee, the music always brought me home.
Describe each track in two words.
“What If” – Wistful, Nostalgic
“Miles & Months” – Longing, Musing
“I Should Have Told You” – Honest, Heartfelt
“Carolina” – Raw, Thoughtful
“Follow Me” – Charming, Upbeat
What was the writing and recording process like?
States Between came together a little differently than my debut EP, Latitude. The writing process was fairly similar in that the songs were pulled from real stories and written through some late nights, but the recording process was very different. This time around, my friends and I all recorded from our home studios and put our parts together remotely. It worked out well though, because much like the title States Between, each individual track was well travelled. Overall, the process took place between Atlanta, Seattle, Nashville, and Los Angeles.
Who did you work with on the EP?
States Between was definitely a team effort, and I was really fortunate to have collaborated with some great musicians. I’d like to give a special shoutout to Zanne Hanna (Mixing Engineer), Josh Sebek (Mastering Engineer), Mason Turner (Electric Guitar), Zack Lamb (Bass), Beck Lorimer (Percussion), Bear Liu (Trumpet), and Casey Murray (Cello) for all of their contributions throughout the EP. It was so wonderful to see everyone’s parts come together, and it wouldn’t have been the same without them. Nobody else I’d rather work with!
Will we see any music videos for any of the tracks on the EP and if we do see one what can we expect from the creative process?
I’m thrilled to say that there are three music videos for States Between! The first one I was released was for “What If”, which was followed by “Miles & Months” and “Follow Me”. You can check them all out on my YouTube channel under @KiloughOfficial. I had so much fun putting them together and bringing out the different personalities of each song. “What If” leans on a more uncertain, darker side, while “Miles & Months” focuses on a more restless feel. “Follow Me” is definitely a personal favorite though, because it pays homage to Nashville – it’s a must see!
What else can we expect in 2023?
I’m wrapping up 2022 with a few shows in the Nashville area and some more writing (the process never stops for a songwriter!). In 2023, you can expect more singles and more shows. They will all be announced on my website and social media, so be sure to check out KiloughOfficial.com or @KiloughOfficial for the latest news!
Where do you see yourself in 5 Years?
In five years, I see myself being on a national tour. My main goal is to travel and play my music out, so that’s what I’m working towards. Getting closer each day!
What quote or saying do you always stick by?
My favorite quote is, “Every great thing starts off a little scary.” I came across this quote a few years ago, and it’s pushed me forward – whether that’s in music or moving to a new town. If you’re out of your comfort zone, great things are likely on the way!
When you are at a gig, what are 5 things you cannot forget?
Getting ready for a gig is one of my favorite parts of being a musician – particularly writing out the setlist (by hand, the old fashioned way). Given that, I would say the setlist is number one on my list. Following the setlist would be my gold rings; I don’t feel ready for a gig until I put on my lucky rings. Of course, I can’t go on without family, friends, and fans. With all of these, I’m good to go!
Do you have social media accounts so your fans can follow you?
I sure do! You can find me on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube, and Twitter under @KiloughOfficial
