Tune in with Kaylee Bell

Country-pop sensation Kaylee Bell chats with Amy Russ ahead of the Marlborough Wine & Food Festival this month on Saturday 14 February, sharing her journey and what she’s most excited to sip, sing, and experience at the iconic festival.

Kaylee Bell’s rise through New Zealand’s music scene has been anything but accidental. Years of persistence, songwriting honesty, and an unwavering belief in her own voice have seen her evolve from a determined young artist into one of the country’s most awarded and recognisable performers. Known for blending modern country with pop sensibility, Kaylee has built a sound that feels both contemporary and deeply relatable. As a singer-songwriter, her work explores love, self-discovery, and resilience, drawing listeners in with lyrics that reflect real experiences rather than polished clichés. It’s this authenticity that has become her signature and the foundation of her growing success at home and overseas.

Behind the accolades lies a long journey of hard work. Originally from Waimate, she built her career performing, writing, and releasing her own songs. One standout career moment occurred during 2022, with her blind audition on The Voice Australia. Kaylee took a bold risk by performing her original song Keith– a tribute to country legend Keith Urban, who was seated right in front of her as a coach. Instead of covering a well-known hit, she debuted a track that cleverly wove Urban’s song titles into its lyrics, celebrating his influence on her musical journey. The performance resonated instantly with all four coaches turning their chairs. Kaylee’s audition became a viral highlight and helped elevate her profile both in Australia and internationally.

But rather than chasing trends, Kaylee focused on creating music that felt true to who she was at each stage of her life. That commitment has paid off, earning her multiple awards, chart success and a loyal fanbase that continues to expand. On stage, Kaylee’s confidence and warmth are immediately apparent. Her performances strike a perfect balance between polished professionalism and genuine connection, inviting audiences into her world rather than performing at them, bringing a sense of joy and openness that resonates long after the final note. Kaylee is also admired for the way she represents modern New Zealand artistry. She has become a role model for emerging musicians, showing that success can be built on persistence, self-belief and staying true to your creative instincts.

This year, Kaylee brings that journey to Marlborough, where she will perform as part of the Marlborough Wine & Food Festival lineup. For audiences, it’s a chance to experience an artist who continues to evolve, connect and tell her story through music that feels unmistakably her own. Kaylee takes a moment to answer our quick-fire questions.

You’re heading to Marlborough for the upcoming Wine & Food festival – if you could describe the vibe of your show in a few words, what would they be?

Energetic, country, pop.

What are you most excited for at this year’s festival?

Trying new wines and finding a glass of Cloudy Bay!

Have you been to Marlborough before, will you be able to enjoy any time in the region outside the show and, if so, what are you looking forward to experiencing?

I visited about 10 years ago and loved it, so I am excited to be part of it, and I know my band are going to love trying the cuisine.

Do you have any pre-show rituals before stepping on stage?

I have a quick huddle with my band and play.

You’ve had such an incredible career – what’s one standout moment that still gives you goosebumps?

The Voice, performing my song Keith to Keith Urban... wild!

What’s something your fans might be surprised to learn about you?

I was enrolled in PE school and NASDA performing arts school and had to decide between the two.

What songs or artists are currently on your personal playlist?

Olivia Dean is my new favourite, through and through!

What are your festival tips for enjoying a great day out?

Sunscreen and a fun attitude.

What message or feeling do you hope people take away after seeing your show?

That they wanna see us again!

As a bit of a style icon yourself, can you share some top festival fashion tips?

Wear what makes you feel like yourself, and colour is a good thing... we don’t wear enough colour in New Zealand!

And finally, is there anything you’d like to make sure readers know?

That we’re very excited to play and be back in Marlborough and can’t wait to see our fans and hopefully make some new ones.

For more information and tickets to Marlborough Wine & Food Festival, visit marlboroughwinefestival.com