Interview: Natalie Kalei
Natalie Kalei is a Las Vegas-born artist whose sound reflects a lifetime surrounded by music and creativity. Raised in a family of musicians, she began gigging straight out of high school, first making waves in the Island Reggae scene influenced by her late father’s deep roots in the genre. After his passing, Natalie began carving her own path, evolving her sound into what she calls “Pop n’ B”—a smooth fusion of pop and R&B. Now more confident in her voice than ever, she’s returning to her reggae roots with a fresh perspective, blending tradition with modern edge to create something entirely her own.
What inspires your music?
My family. My life. My friends. I love to pull from my own experiences good and bad.
Who are some of your influences?
Jhené Aiko, Kehlani, Kiana Lede, Bob Marley, Lauryn Hill, Erykah Badu, Maoli, My father Steven Ventic and my Aunt Jeanette Jurado of Exposé.
What are some of your favorite memories from your career?
Early in my career, before I was even 21 years old, I played in my Aunt’s band, and we opened up for Baby Face. The same night, I also opened for Justin Young with my own band. That was awesome. I also had the opportunity to work on a reality show (Raising Asia) about Asia Monet Ray. I got to do that with my father; it was such a fun time. Of course, I’ll never forget releasing my first single, “Did you?” And my debut ep “Stick Around”.
Which of your projects do you love the most?
My song “Stick Around” has a special place in my heart. When I first started writing my own music, I would write from a place of hurt. Stick Around was the first song I wrote from a happy, loving place, not a hurt place.
Who are some of the collaborators who helped you create your favorite works?
I will forever be grateful for the team behind my EP, “Stick Around”. @_ayeejb, @rubenraymondtb, and @ashgraysun are all truly incredible, and I couldn’t have done it without them.
What are you most excited to bring to your fans next?
I’m excited to get back to my roots and release some Island reggae music. That’s where I started, and I have always deeply loved that genre. But I plan on hitting multiple genres because I never want to box myself into one style. I can do it all and still make it sound like me. Just wait and see.
What are your goals for this upcoming year?
My goal is simply to release new music.
How can your fans and our readers best support you right now?
Continue streaming my EP “Stick Around” and keep up with me on IG and TikTok!
