Kari Lyn embodies the spirit of a “cottage core rockstar,” merging the warmth of rustic storytelling with the edge of modern rock. Growing up on Prince Edward Island, her life has always been intertwined with music and storytelling. Deeply influenced by her “PEI famous” grandfather, Tommy Gallant, his fishing tales, shared around family gatherings, were rich with adventure and wisdom, instilling in her an early love for narrative and connection. Combined with the soulful sounds of Amy Winehouse and Johnny Cash that echoed through her childhood home, Kari Lyn was immersed in melodies and stories from the start. Family gatherings often felt like “kitchen parties” or traditional “ceilidhs”, where folk music, singing, and storytelling followed naturally, shaping her connection to music.
While her upbringing laid the foundation, it wasn’t until Kari Lyn began weaving her influences into her own songwriting that her passion truly ignited. Her first “album,” “Take It Slow”, was recorded on an iPod Touch as a personal gift for her mother, marking a meaningful beginning to her music career and an indication of her entry into the music world: slowly.
Before diving into her music career, Kari Lyn spent five years backpacking the world—from Australia to Colombia and Thailand—immersing herself in new cultures, teaching scuba diving, hiking, and teaching English. Yet, no matter where she went, music always called her back. These experiences fueled her growth, confidence and independence. Rather than merely documenting her travels, she translated her experiences into songs, many of which featured on her debut album, Hit the Ground (2020).
Building on the lessons from her debut, Kari Lyn honed her skills by studying music business at the prestigious Harris Institute, graduating as valedictorian of the Arts Management program. Her dedication extended beyond the classroom—touring PEI in 2023 and attending a songwriting retreat in Costa Rica with award-winning artists Jacelyn Holmes and Nicole Rayy further fueled her creative direction and focus.
Now, with renewed focus and expertise, Kari Lyn is collaborating with acclaimed producer Dan Hosh (known for his work with Wild Rivers, Serena Ryder, and Arkells), on her new single “Fall (I’m Not Ready)”.
As a woman in a male-dominated industry, Kari Lyn is not just creating music—she’s creating a path for others to follow. “I want to inspire others to follow their dreams and to realize they don’t have to struggle on their own,” she says. Her journey reflects the ethos of a true “cottage core rockstar”—blending the rustic, the real, and the rebellious into her art.
