Despite her innate love for music, born & raised Montrealer Kaila Picard grew up surrounded by external expectations, causing her to focus on music as a hobby rather than a viable calling. With the early and ongoing encouragement of her grandfather, Kaila made a life-changing decision to enroll at the Montreal Academy of music where she was able to further her vocal abilities and cure her stage fright. This was a turning point for Kaila, as it allowed her to rediscover her fervent love for music and the feeling it invoked within her. In addition to developing her singing abilities it provided Kaila with a new found confidence that put an end to the attitude-ridden adolescent and opened her eyes to whole new perspective, enabling her to flourish as a person as well as an artist. Music became a natural part of life for Kaila and she hasn't looked back since.
With great interest in expanding her musical horizons, Kaila began studying Jazz Performance studies at Montreal's renowned Vanier College School of Music. This provided Kaila with incredible music opportunities, allowing her to travel and experience music abroad in various countries, including France, Italy and Denmark. Being in a music school also presented her with the possibility of meeting people and building connections with other musicians, and soon enough Kaila's very first rock band formed. With great opportunities comes a lot of work and so, as their lead singer, Kaila was forced to evolve as an artist in order to fit the weighty role bestowed upon her. Performing with the band, called 'On The Flip Side', she learned how to dominate her audience and belt out a rock tune. Kaila quotes “Those guys kicked my butt, opened my eyes and kept me on my toes.”
Following her graduation there was no doubt in Kaila's mind that instant fame was right around the corner. However, life had other plans. The cost of living and numerous doors slammed in her face, among other things, was taking a toll on the morale and the wallet and Kaila was forced to work a nine to five job, play gigs around and about and juggle a multitude of bands, all the while trying to find her niche in the industry. She continued to carry the load and saved every penny she could until she had enough to put together her very first EP.
Most recently Kaila's first EP was recorded with Toronto (Ontario) based producer, songwriter and musician Mark Zubek, best known for his work with grammy award winning jazz singer Betty Carter, amongst many others. The first single, Called “Back 2 Square 1”, with hopes of being picked up, has been submitted to the hit Canadian TV show Degrassi: The Next Generation and has gained some local air time on Montreal's Virgin 96 with good response.
Kaila's hard work and undeniable passion for her craft will, without a doubt, skyrocket her to great places. Kaila states: “I'll keep pushing until I'm where I want to be...or dead!”
Keep your eyes peeled and ears open!
