Hayley Blais' musical journey began in the heart of Kelowna, where her natural talent was nurtured from a young age. "I started taking lessons under Alexandra's tutelage when I was eight," she recalls. "I was her first child student." This early start laid the foundation for a career that would see Hayley grow from a local talent to a recognized name in the music industry.

Early beginnings in Kelowna

Hayley's love for music was evident from the start, and her connection with Alexandra Babbel played a crucial role in her development. Despite Alexandra's initial reluctance to teach children, Hayley's talent and enthusiasm quickly won her over. This early mentorship helped shape Hayley's musical abilities and instilled in her a deep appreciation for vocal technique and harmony.

Gaining traction with YouTube

After moving to Vancouver in 2015, Hayley began to carve out a niche for herself in the music scene. She started performing at small gigs and open mics, gradually building a following. However, it was her presence on YouTube that significantly boosted her visibility. "I started posting covers and original songs," she says. "The platform gave me a chance to reach a wider audience."The COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented challenges to artists worldwide, and Harris was no exception. Navigating the lockdowns while based between Ottawa and Montreal, she and her partner found innovative ways to continue creating. Their tiny apartment became a creative haven, filled with the sounds of opera, jazz, and even bands rehearsing downstairs. "We just sort of tried to create every day," Harris says, highlighting the resilience and adaptability that kept her artistic spirit alive.

Touring and early performances 

Touring became an integral part of Hayley's career. She shares stories of early tours, often travelling in a van and staying with fans. "We did it all, from sleeping in the van to staying with generous fans," she recalls. These humble beginnings were filled with challenges but also created some of her most cherished memories. Now, with more experience and success, she continues to tour, though the scale and comfort have increased.

Personal challenges and inspirations

Hayley opens up about the personal themes in her music, particularly in her latest album, Wisecrack. The album delves into family dynamics and the transition into adulthood. "It's about coming to terms with adulthood and the changes it brings," she explains. "Writing this album was therapeutic for me. It helped me process a lot of my feelings about family and growing up."

Finding her voice

Hayley's journey to self-acceptance is a recurring theme in her music. "I used to admire high tenor voices, but I've come to embrace my baritone range," she says. This self-acceptance has been pivotal in her development as an artist. Her unique voice and authentic storytelling resonate deeply with her audience, earning her a dedicated fanbase.

Upcoming projects

Looking to the future, Hayley is excited about touring more and continuing to create music that speaks to her experiences and those of her fans. "I'm taking the summer to write new material," she shares. "The last album took a lot out of me emotionally and creatively, but I'm ready to start fresh."

Connection with fans

Hayley's relationship with her fans is one of mutual respect and appreciation. She values the support and connection she has built with her audience over the years. "My fans mean the world to me," she says. "Their support allows me to keep doing what I love."

Hayley Blais' journey in music is a testament to the power of perseverance, self-acceptance, and passion. From her early days in Kelowna to her rise in the music industry, her story is one of dedication and growth. As she continues to create and perform, she inspires others to embrace their unique voices and follow their artistic dreams.