LA by-the-way-of New Zealand artist Kelsy Karter has released the official video for her single “You Only Die Once“. The video is a continuation of her enthralling music video “Devil On My Shoulder” and is directed by Kelsy herself in what she describes as “a cheeky but theatrical way to bring it to life and make kids feel like they’re not alone during these weird times.”
Kelsy is reunited with her “Devil On My Shoulder” co-star Crystal the Monkey in “You Only Die Once”, a captivating visual that depicts Karter cheekily attempting to break out of a mental institution, desperately trying to get back to her pack of people who truly understand her and where she feels her true self. After a few failed attempts, Crystal the Monkey breaks Kelsy out and reunites her with her group of misfits.
“I want it to speak to the misfits and the “weirdos” who feel like they don’t fit in or can’t be themselves,” Karter stated in a conversation with Alt Press. “Because they can, and I’ll be there to back them up till the end.” As a true call-to-arms for the outspoken rocker, the song is meant to be a rallying cry for any & all who feel left out, outcasted, or pushed aside. “I wanted to be a voice for those who feel lost or confused during the state of the world—it’s a fuck-you anthem for anyone who needs to let it out.”
“You Only Die Once” is featured on Kelsy Karter’s debut album Missing Person, which came out earlier this fall.
While the fantastically warped wonderland of Missing Person offers a much-needed escape from the everyday, Karter’s world-building serves an even greater purpose, providing a safe space for listeners to discover their own self-acceptance. “Making this album helped me to find comfort and freedom in who I am, and I want everyone who hears it to come away with that same feeling,” Karter says. “I want them to feel strong in their individuality, and to stop caring about what other people think. I hope it helps them to feel both totally vulnerable and completely invincible at the very same time.”