Kelsie Kimberlin shares music video for “Sally”

Washington, DC-based artist Kelsie Kimberlin is a Ukrainian-American singer-songwriter whose music is as impactful as it is enjoyable. Over the years, she’s forged a career built on purpose, using her platform to shed light on important global issues while dazzling listeners with her powerful songwriting. Her artistic journey has been rich with success, marked by a profound connection with fans worldwide and an steadfast mission of using her voice to encourage positive change.

From her early days singing in a choir to her involvement in Yoko Ono’s Peace Project, Kelsie has always understood the power of music beyond entertainment. She’s crafted a unique sound that spans multiple genres, all while maintaining a strong and meaningful message at its core. In recent years, she’s focused her artistry on raising awareness about the ongoing war in Ukraine, releasing a series of striking singles paired with gripping visuals, many of which were filmed in active war zones.

With over 100 original songs to her name and collaborations with Grammy-winning producers, she’s racked up tens of millions of views, streams and radio plays, confirming her status in the modern music landscape. This year promises to be one of her most ambitious yet; with a full-length film and an accompanying soundtrack in the works, Kelsie is set to tour with the film, with the aim of amplifying awareness and support for Ukraine.

Now, having already made an impressive start to 2025 with several singles already released, she now brings us her recent single titled “Sally.” This time leaning into a more upbeat sound, Kelsie serves up an engaging fusion of indie pop tinged with soft rock and echoes of country. Unlike many contemporary pop productions that rely on electronic percussion and programmed beats, “Sally” is performed entirely by a live band, an approach that results in an organic feel that wraps the song in a warm sonic fabric.

Set up by the country-inflected twang of guitar notes, the shuffle of grooving percussion injects a mellow energy as Kelsie’s bright vocals enter to spin instantly catchy melodic leads above the arrangement. Rising in the chorus, the lively roll of the lead hooks delivers an infectious moment of sing-along indie pop music driven by danceable rhythm.

Beyond the music itself, “Sally” comes with a visually stunning music video, marking Kelsie’s second time stepping into the director’s chair. Filmed in Kyiv while she was working on her upcoming movie about Ukrainian resistance and resilience, the video was conceived alongside acclaimed film director Pavlo Khomiuk. Taking on the role of the titular “Sally,” Kelsie recounts the story of a girl who, after losing her father, struggles to find her way until she meets someone who helps her regain confidence. Through expressive visuals and a compelling tale, she brings the song’s emotional context to life, blending personal storytelling with broader themes of strength and renewal.

Commenting on the single, she shares, “I have known many girls who have had mental health challenges after a tragic family event and I have tried to understand how those who rose above the challenge not only survived but thrived. With Sally, I am using an amazing song to let them know that leaning on a loved one for support can help move from self-destruction to self-esteem. But for most people, Sally is just a catchy song with fun lyrics.”

Watch the music video for Sally below

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