Kelly McMichael

Twice nominated for Polaris Music Prize (2022 shortlist, 2025 Longlist)

“one of Canada’s best new songwriters”
Canadian Beats

“(Kelly McMichael)...continues to drop explosive tunes”
-Exclaim! on ‘Bomb’ as #14 on Best songs of 2024

“A show-stopping performance”
-Spill Magazine, 2022 Polaris Gala (shortlisted artist)
Kelly McMichael is an alternative artist, multi-instrumentalist and producer based in St. John’s, Newfoundland, originally from Peterborough, Ontario. Kelly’s sophomore album 'After The Sting Of It', was recently longlisted for the Polaris Music Prize and her debut independent album Waves, earned a spot on the shortlist in 2022, as well as the ECMA for ‘Best Rock Recording’.
Kelly has performed across North America and Europe, accompanying The Burning Hell, Tim Baker, Gentleman Reg and Sarah Harmer. Her DIY feminist synth band ‘Rouge’ had a cult following in Toronto, which progressed into Kelly’s solo project ‘Renders’, and expanded her interest in recording and producing her own music. Her late bloomer success allowed her to shift focus from side player to solo artist.
McMichael’s second album, 'After The Sting Of It' (2024) is a fearless expansion on the classic sound of her debut. Critically acclaimed for its bold sonic landscape, McMichael has been toted for her resilient and empathetic vocals that sound “even better live”. You can hear her music on national alternative radio, including CBC, The Verge and campus stations and TV shows, or see her on tour in Eastern Canada, Ontario and Europe in 2025.