Kelly Willis

Kelly Willis might have been a Nashville superstar in another universe—but in this one, she’s forged a more independent and authentic path. The Oklahoma-born, Austin-based artist broke through in the early ’90s with a major-label debut (Well Travelled Love) and a feature on the Thelma & Louise soundtrack. After parting ways with MCA, she found her voice on her own terms.

Her 1999 album What I Deserve became a defining moment, earning critical acclaim, a loyal fan base, and a place in the Austin Music Hall of Fame. She’s since released six more albums, praised for their raw honesty and her “enormous voice” (Robert Christgau).

Now, Willis is entering a new chapter—writing her next album, planning a 25th-anniversary reissue of What I Deserve, and touring both solo and with her new trio alongside Brennen Leigh and Melissa Carper.

“I’m in a creative phase,” she says. “It’s scary, but it feels good.

You may also like the following events from McGonigel's Mucky Duck:

• Next month, 27th September, 07:00 pm, West Texas Exiles in Houston
• This October, 11th October, 07:00 pm, Cheryl Wheeler in Houston
• This October, 30th October, 07:00 pm, Alejandro Escovedo in Houston

Also check out other Arts events in Houston.