Kayla Williams

Calgary’s Kayla Williams is a rising musician who is making waves in the world of yacht pop music. Inspired by the smooth sounds of  late ‘70s artists such as Toto, Steely Dan, and Hall & Oates, she infuses her own contemporary style and bold feminine perspective to breathe new life into the male-dominated genre.

Kayla’s debut EP, RETRODELIA, is a positivity-forward throwback tribute with a twist. Her soulfully dynamic vocals and fearless femininity have earned her praise from Beach Boy Brian Wilson himself (“You’ve got the voice!”). With support from the Alberta Foundation for the Arts, the EP was produced by Heath West and JUNO award-winner Spencer Cheyne, who added a modern pop sheen to Kayla’s retro sound.

Williams’ talent has not gone unnoticed. She was the winner of the 2021 Red Deer Emerging Artist Award and was one of 11 artists selected to participate in Canada’s Music Incubator’s AE West professional development program in 2019. Her music has been featured on TSN, and she was commissioned to write a song for the 2019 Canada Winter Games, performing it in front of 8,000 people.

A seasoned musician and 10-year vocal coach, Williams has worked with various artists and performed at festivals such as Robson Valley Music Fest, Skirts-A-Fire Fest, Astral Harvest Music Fest, and the Melbourne International Comedy Fest.With her band, The Yacht Daddies, she is excited to spread the word about RETRODELIA’s glittery yacht pop revival and connect with fans through live performances and social media. Her vintage vision and lighthearted feel-good energy offer a refreshing escape from the world’s troubles, showcasing the powerful force of femininity in music.