Rising New Zealand country artist Keily Smith unveils her debut single, “You Feel Like Home,” a moving tribute to love, belonging, and the places we call home. Written in honor of her husband, the track captures a moment of deep gratitude and happiness—one inspired by a quiet morning watching her children play and her husband tinkering in the garage. “It was everything I was feeling in that moment,” Keily shares. The song came together in just an hour, a testament to its authenticity and emotional depth.
Originally from Northeast England, Keily’s journey has taken her across continents—from a year living and working in Australia to settling in New Zealand’s stunning South Island 14 years ago. Since entering the music scene in 2022, she has quickly become a standout performer, earning recognition for her evocative vocals, powerful stage presence, and heartfelt songwriting.
Keily’s star continues to rise within the New Zealand country music community. In 2025 alone, she claimed the prestigious New Zealand Senior Overall Gold Guitar Award and was named runner-up for NZ Entertainer of the Year—accolades that highlight her originality and impact as a songwriter. The Otago Daily Times describes her as an artist who can “fill a stadium with ease,” thanks to her signature smokey tones and magnetic performance style.
“You Feel Like Home” marks a significant milestone in Keily’s career, serving as both her debut release and the first song she ever wrote. The opportunity to record the track came after her Gold Guitar Award win, making its release on November 28, 2025, all the more meaningful. The song beautifully reflects Keily’s experience of having her heart in two places—her English roots and her New Zealand home—and honors the sense of comfort and connection she’s found with her family.
Balancing life as a mother, business owner, and musician, Keily is now focused on songwriting and sharing her original music with the world. She’s set to make her debut at the Tamworth Country Music Festival in 2026, further establishing herself as a compelling new voice in country music.
Song Credits:
- Songwriter, Vocals: Keily Smith
- Fiddle, Keys: Nick Jones
- Pedal Steel: Bill Bassett
- Drums: Josh Blaikie
- Guitars, Bass, Percussion, Backing Vocals: Dan Cosgrove
- Production & Mixing: Dan Cosgrove (DC Studio)
- Mastering: Josh Schuberth (Fireswamp Studios)
- Drum Engineering: Casey Messant (The Wardrobe Studio NZ)
https://gyro.to/youfeellikehome
What first drew you into the world of music?
I have loved all genres of music from a very early age, singing in school plays at primary school and studying drama at secondary school in the UK, where I am from. I stopped singing as a young adult; my studies and life plans took me in other directions. I lived in NZ for 10 years before embracing my voice and learning guitar in 2022. Singing & playing for my children was always a dream, so I decided it was the time to make it a reality, and now I share it with everyone.
How would you define your unique musical style?
I would describe it as genuine, powerful, open, raw, with multiple layers of influence & life experience, memorable, and energetic.
Can you share a funny or surprising moment that’s happened during a performance?
I have only ever solo gigged; I am self-equipped and self-taught, and at my first wedding ceremony 3 years ago, I underestimated the importance of an appropriate length speaker cable, tugging it without realising, there wasn’t any length left to spare. Haha, down the speaker came crashing 20 minutes before the bride arrived! I had to work fast to make sure the situation was averted. I now have very long cables for every input.
How do you handle stage nerves—has your approach changed over time?
If I am committing to something, I always give 110%. I approach every song and performance as if everyone in the room has paid to see me’ I then feel obliged to only deliver the whole package of Keily. Even if I have one song in a 2-hour multiple-artist show, in that moment, in my head, I am the star. It helps me to stay grounded, embrace gratitude, and remember that not everyone gets the opportunity I have in that moment and to make the most of it.
If you weren’t making music, what path do you think you’d be on?
I worked in the children’s safeguarding and adult disability sector prior to motherhood. My son was born at 26 weeks, so priorities changed for us; he is 9 now. I was at a crossroad of what to do in 2023 as my 3 children got older, so I completed a semester at Otago University to top up my current qualifications whilst gigging and competing. I was then accepted for my master’s in social work. After serious consideration and a health scare, I made the decision to fully embrace music, and here I am.
Has your musical journey followed a clear plan, or has it evolved naturally over time?
It has been a whirlwind! From entering and winning the CMDA awards in Dunedin 2022 to Overall Gold Guitar award in NZ in 2025, I have never stopped working. I had no connections or family ties to the music industry when I started; everything was on me to make connections and find a place. I had to knuckle down & go meet people, apply for gigs, enter competitions, and be present on social media. Fully winging it, making opportunities to get my sound and name out there, and learning along the way. I can truly say that perseverance and hard work pay off.
What are your musical goals or plans for the coming year?
Heading back into the studio is a huge focus when I return from Tamworth, where I hope to make new connections and meet artists who would like to collaborate. I have several music commitments as a solo artist and with a band, and then I would like to explore a local tour and festivals to play. Oh & open a show for some of the cool artists here & heading to NZ – OR I have a passport!
Do you have any upcoming releases, videos, or shows fans should know about?
YES!! ‘You Feel Like Home,’ my debut release, will be available on all streaming platforms November 28th, 2025. There is also a beautiful video to accompany the song that captures my time in the studio recording it. I am absolutely delighted to share it with you all.
What’s your take on garden gnomes—love them or leave them?
Love them! My garden as a child was full of them and my dad told me they were magic.
Are you more of a cat person, dog person, or both?
Always Dog!!!
What would you date night go to food be?
Thai cuisine, love a bit of spice or any seafood
What’s something that always makes you feel nostalgic?
Music it’s my go to for all things & feelings
What’s your most treasured piece of clothing?
My grandfathers flat cap he wore every day and my grandmother’s kitchen pinny.
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