Melanistic Magazine - Vol 13

Arts & Culture

KARELLA CUMMINGS

by: TANEYA ROGERS

Karella Cummings is a rare musical talent. An established DJ, who plays multiple instruments and happens to have a vocal range that could devour any genre of music. Born in Oakville Ontario, but raised in Edmonton by music-loving, Trinidadian parents, created a cultural fluidity that translates into her music. She shares that "to be a successful DJ or musician in Edmonton, you must remain versed in a range of musical genres."

Karella Cummings

Soca music, however, is her first love. "``I’m attracted to the creativity that you have to use with the lyrics in Soca. You’re essentially playing with three chords but how you manipulate and present them demands creativity. Performing soca music is also the funnest thing you can do.”

Karella is working to develop her skills in R&B and Soca. She’s also making use of her vocal skills around Alberta at major sporting events as the anthem singer. She shares, “Performing the anthem is different, because you have the crowd’s absolute, undivided attention. If I tripped on stage performing soca, I could maybe play it off. With the anthem everything is noticeable.”

There is no doubt that Karella’s talents will continue to shape Edmonton’s musical landscape.

To follow Karella's musical journey or for bookings visit: @itskarella.com, IG: @itskarella