Bristol Episode #2: Kelsey Waldon

For this episode of Pass the Mic, we talked to Kelsey Waldon at the 2023 Bristol Rhythm and Roots Reunion. Kelsey Waldon was born and raised in rural Western Kentucky. Originally, she identified primarily as a songwriter, but eventually embraced her distinct singing voice after receiving positive feedback and encouragement. In this conversation, Kelsey shared recent experiences touring and promoting her most recent full-length record, No Regular Dog. Kelsey discusses the influence of her mentor and friend, the late John Prine. She describes her decision to quit drinking, and ways that the choice to become sober has impacted her life and career. We also discussed shared connections to Healing Appalachia, a festival that raises awareness and funds for people in recovery in Southern Appalachia. Finally, we discussed Kelsey’s experiences of being a woman in the music industry and the importance of female friendship and creative collaboration.

Special thanks to Seth Hopper for recording this interview in Bristol.

Music on this episode includes "Backwater Blues" and "No Regular Dog" from Kelsey Waldon's 2022 album, No Regular Dog, and "Kentucky 1988" from Kelsey's 2019 album, White Noise / White Lines. Cello improvisation provided by Cecilia Wright. Theme music for this episode was composed and performed by William Wright.