Kel Adore Continues Rise to the Top With “Shut It Down” [Interview]

Kel Adore, the rising star in the electro-pop scene, returns with her latest single, “Shut It Down,” a pop-dance track that blends tropical vibes with a catchy, empowering message. Released independently through her own imprint, Kel Adore Music, the song is a testament to her evolving creativity. Kel explains, “This was one of the first times I let the melody lead the way, allowing the lyrics to follow naturally.”

“Shut It Down” encourages listeners to prioritize their peace of mind and say no to situations that don’t serve them. As Kel puts it, “I’ve always believed that we’re defined more by the things we say no to than by the things we say yes to.” Her mission to empower shines through both her lyrics and her personal journey as an artist.

Having recently performed at the iconic Whisky A Go Go and earned spots on Spotify Editorial playlists, Kel Adore is solidifying her place in the music industry. Her crystal-clear vocals and powerful storytelling resonate deeply, making “Shut It Down” a track that not only sticks in your head but also inspires you to embrace your own power. “Sometimes, it’s best to literally shut it down and move on,” she adds, offering a message of strength and self-assurance to her growing fanbase.

Kel Adore fills The Nocturnal Times in on her latest happenings around the release of “Shut It Down” in this Q&A:

The Nocturnal Times: How and when did you first know you wanted to work as a musician?

Kel Adore: I’ve always loved music, growing up writing and performing with my sister. While I dreamt of being a singer, I initially thought it was an “impractical” choice. It wasn’t until the pandemic that I realized I needed to take it seriously. I started collaborating with producers, moved to LA, and the rest is history.

The Nocturnal Times: Did your upbringing influence your decision to pursue music?

Kel Adore: I didn’t know anyone in the music industry growing up, but my mom was a very accomplished Majorette who had experience in singing, acting, and dancing. She coached me before recitals and talent shows, which definitely boosted my confidence. Even without traditional industry access, having her as my performance coach made a huge difference.

The Nocturnal Times: Who were some of your earliest inspirations? Which artists motivate you most now?

Kel Adore: I grew up listening to Shania Twain and Taylor Swift. Their storytelling and performance abilities really stuck with me. Now, I’m inspired by artists and writers like Sabrina Carpenter, Renee Rapp, Ariana Grande, Jon Bellion, Amy Allen, and Justin Tranter. I actually met Justin this summer in LA—it was surreal to be around someone who has been such a big inspiration.

The Nocturnal Times: At what point did you realize this was something you wanted to do for the rest of your life (aka your first “pinch me” moment)?

Kel Adore: It’s not just one moment, but all the little moments that work together. Those moments come when I’m creating music—whether it’s cracking the code on a melody, hearing a new mix in my car, or getting off stage after a great show with my band. To stick it out in this industry, you really have to love the process.

The Nocturnal Times: After listening to your discography, it’s clear that you have a wide artistic range. Do you tend to gravitate towards certain styles or genres over others?

Kel Adore: I’m glad you noticed! My songs may each have their own personalities, but I’d like to think they all fall under the umbrella of pop with heart. Each track feels like me, even if the sound and structure vary. I always try to serve what is best for the song, and the rest follows naturally based on the story or emotion I’m trying to convey.

The Nocturnal Times: What’s a day in the studio like for you?

Kel Adore: I show up with a giant water bottle and layers of clothing, depending on the AC situation. I usually bring a handful of ideas, voice notes, song titles, and maybe some Splice samples. Before diving in, I love to yap with my co-writers and producers. The best sessions happen when we’re in tune with each other’s lives, and the music flows naturally from there.

The Nocturnal Times: You just released your latest single “Shut It Down.” What can you tell us about the song and what it means to you?

Kel Adore: “Shut It Down” is a track you can get lost in and vibe out to. It’s something you might hear at a pool bar with a refreshing drink in hand. Beyond the vibe, it’s about me stepping into my power as an artist and shutting down situations that don’t serve me. Learning to let go of certain relationships has allowed me to find the right people to work with and protect my peace of mind and my art.

The Nocturnal Times: Share a bit with us about your creative process when it came to “Shut It Down.” Where did you draw inspiration? How long did the track take to complete from start to finish?

Kel Adore: “Shut It Down” was born out of a melody-first approach. My co-writer and producer, Chosen Jacobs, and I were vibing in the studio, and the first line of the song came to me right away. The song took shape as I reflected on times I needed to shut things down and walk away. We started writing in December 2023 and wrapped it up about six months later.

The Nocturnal Times: Do you have three personal favorite songs of your own, and if so, which and why?

Kel Adore: I gauge how much I like a song by how badly I wished I had written it. Right now, I’m loving “A Tear in Space (Airlock)” by Glass Animals, “Forever Thing” by Madishu, and—don’t hate me—“Shoes” by Tiga. It’s got an “I’m Too Sexy” vibe, and something about it just scratches that itch in the back of your brain.

The Nocturnal Times: What can you share with readers of The Nocturnal Times about what the rest of the year has in store for Kel Adore?

Kel Adore: The rest of the year is packed with more music. My next single, “Unlock It,” is coming in September! After that, I have a few more surprises up my sleeve, so stay tuned! 🙂