Keltiey is Going Back to the Basics

She’s bubbly — and she’s spreading the love through fun dance beats.

Like many rising stars, it all started with a TikTok. Keltiey, music’s newest and upcoming popstar, went viral for her empowering and self-assuring lyrics that blend perfectly on a TikTok outfit haul or on the dance floor.

In November, she released her first album, B2B, and a sped-up version to continue catering to her TikTok platform. Her viral single, “Need,” accumulated over 20 million streams and became a TikTok sensation. She defies the laws of music by combining Jersey Club and R&B with her soft voice. Dylvinci exclusively produced the album with features including Texako and wickedtre.

Although she’s Gen Z, Keltiey is nothing less than a Y2K queen. Her style is as effervescent as her music. The Houston native sat down with 1202 MAGAZINE to discuss success so early into her young career and where she wants to go from here.

What inspired you to make music?

I started making music soon after COVID-19 — the end of my sophomore year in high school and the beginning of my junior year. I had no hobbies. I didn’t do sports or extracurricular activities. I had nothing to do, so I downloaded BandLab because I saw it on TikTok. I started recording on there and putting out covers.

How would you describe your sound to someone listening to your music for the first time?

Versatile. I don’t like to ever stick to one genre. Everything in my vault is different.

What are some of your favorite genres to listen to and make?

I listen to a lot of Neo-soul, R&B, and jazz. I like everything, to be honest. I really like to make R&B and pop.

What does your creative process look like?

I haven’t gotten to recording or making beats yet, but I do record and write everything really, really fast. Studio time: We would usually be out of there in four hours.

Do your lyrics come from personal experiences or different perspectives?

A little bit of everything. Sometimes, I write from a different perspective, maybe of someone else, but they’re mostly my experiences.

Why do you think your song, “Need,” went so viral?

I really don’t know. It blows my mind and everybody’s minds to this day. It was so random. It was the first Jersey beat I’ve ever recorded, so it was a shock.

Have you worked with New Jersey artists?

I’ve worked with Kanii and skaiwater.

Were they features or more production collaborations?

I hopped on their songs, and they hopped on mine.

Why are you unique compared to other artists?

I hate to be that person, but I’m just unique. I don’t care what anybody says. I’m just myself, authentically.

Do you see yourself exploring genres or want to stick with what you’re doing?

I definitely want to explore genres, but eventually want to find my own sound.

Do you think you’re starting to find it?

I think I have an idea, but not fully yet. There are still so many genres I want to test.

Who are some of your favorite artists to work with?

I worked with my friend, gaptoothv4mp. We made a song called ‘ADMIRE Y-O-U.’ I really like working with her because we’re actually friends. That was the first song we ever made after being friends with each other for two years.

Who else do you want to work with in the future?

PinkPantheress and Tyler, the Creator.

What kind of genres can we expect to hear in upcoming music?

Definitely a lot of club, Jersey, pop, slower music, and more R&B.

What do you want to accomplish in the next few years?

I want a Grammy.