Part of the new crop of emerging country music singer-songwriters, Courtney Keil's latest release is the spirited, energetic single 'Always First'.
A country-pop song, it was co-written from a personable angle focussed on Courtney's own temperament to share herself with a genuine sincerity and undaunted willingness to put her heart first."I am someone who lives my life by always putting my heart first, sometimes for the better, sometimes for the worse," the singer-songwriter says, who worked with producer Rod McCormack and A-list Nashville songwriter Sally Barris on 'Always First'.
'Always First' is an effervescent little bop that bounds along with a bubbly sonic enthusiasm (like a cute, playful puppy) as the song's country-pop heartbeat bursts with punchy production. The addition of twangy Nashville mandolin strings throughout the track gives 'Always First' that charming final coat of goodness.
"I just love song writing early in the morning and that is when 'Always First' was born, co-written with Rod and Sally," Courtney says.
"We focused on who I am as a person and this song exemplifies my life and is an earnest portrayal of my heart space.
"Rod and I went into the studio to bring the song to life, weaving layers of dynamic and punchy sounds, including the drumming excellence of Glen Wilson and Rod's masterwork on guitar and mandolin."
Ahead of the song's release tomorrow (14 October), scenestr is thrilled to premiere the 'Always First' music video today. Enjoy.
2022 has been a jam-packed year for Keil brimming with live performances; from travelling the country with Gina Jeffreys and Tania Kernaghan on their 'Girls Night Out' tour, supporting Angus Gill and Andrew Swift as well as FNQ festival appearances at Rockin' Country Festival and Savannah In The Round.
Courtney also portrayed June Carter in the 'Johnny Cash The Concert Tour', which continues with another Melbourne show this month before a final performance aboard the Cruisin' Country 2022 Super Cruise.
The accompanying video clip sees Courtney performing at a rustic, sun-drenched farm stay in her new home town on the Central Coast. She worked alongside Jeremy Minnett of Eyes and Ears Creative to bring her vision to life.
"It was such a delight to have the support of two beautiful venues, Yarramalong Valley Farmstay and Distillery Botanica on the Central Coast for my music video shoot," Courtney says.
"Working with Jeremy from Eyes & Ears Creative was super easy and so much fun along with my fairy godmother Lee Hanly, who took care of my hair and make-up.
"I can't not mention my awesome band consisting of Jacky McCormack (guitar), Eli Knox (drums) Brandon Yarnold (bass) – also my first time playing my guitar on film.
"My aim for the day was to create a bright, feel-good environment, so I hope it makes people smile."
Courtney Keil 2022 Tour Dates
Fri 21 Oct - Johnny Cash The Concert @ The Palms @ Crown Casino (Melbourne)9-16 Nov - Johnny Cash The Concert @ Cruisin' Country 2022 Super Cruise
Sat 26 Nov - Avoca Beach Theatre (Avoca, NSW)* supporting The Whitlams Black Stump Band
