Kayla Williams is making waves in the world of yacht-pop with her signature blend of ’70s and ’80s retro-funk, soulful vocals, and a modern edge. Based in Calgary, she returns with her sophomore EP POPSTALGIA, produced by JUNO winners Spencer Cheyne and Justin Kudding, a glittery collection that channels summer nights and vintage grooves with danceable, feel-good tracks and the standout ’ ’80s-inspired breakup jam “Is It Really True?”. The release follows her acclaimed debut RETRODELIA, which earned her multiple nominations, including Pop Artist of the Year at the 2024 Western Canadian Music Awards, Pop Recording of the Year at the 2024 YYC Music Awards for her single “Come Close,” and Pop Recording of the Year at the 2025 YYC Music Awards for the EP itself. When not in the studio or vocal coaching, Williams lights up stages across Western Canada with her high-energy, glitter-clad band, The Yacht Daddies, delivering smooth grooves and good vibes as she sails confidently toward a bright, retro-inspired future.
Name:
Kayla Williams
Genre:
Yacht-Rock/Retro-Pop
Founded:
2017
# of Albums:
2
Latest Album:
POPSTALGIA (Sept 18, 2025)
Latest Single:
“Is It Really True?” (Sept 2025) and “Craving” (Aug 2025)
Latest Video:
Favourite musician growing up:
The Beach Boys/Fleetwood Mac
Favourite musician now:
The Preatures/Lake Street Dive
Guilty pleasure song:
“Sailing”- Christopher Cross
Live show ritual:
We stand in a circle and the 4 of us slap each other’s forearms in a ‘floppy salmon’ fashion.
Favourite local musician:
Wyatt C. Louis
EP or LP?
LP
Early bird or night owl?
Both!
Road or studio?
Both!
Any shows or albums coming up?
My new EP, POPSTALGIA, dropped Sept 18th!
Where can we follow you?
Website | YouTube | Instagram | Facebook | TikTok
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Rapid Fire Local Questions:
What is your favourite local restaurant?
Blue Star Diner
What is your favourite street in your city and why?
9th Ave – it’s the music mile in Calgary! Tons of great music venues.
What is your favourite park in your city and why?
Silver Springs Boardwalk – it has views of the mountains, you can get down to the river, there’s tons of quiet trails and even a little waterfall.
What is your favourite music venue in your city?
The King Eddy!
What is your favourite music store in your city?
Hot Wax Records in Kensington.
