Published by Cel Manero from Global One Media Inc.
In an online cover interview with ELLE, the country artist questioned, “Why shouldn’t we extend a welcome to someone new?”
Kelsea Ballerini believes that country music should be open to everyone.
In an interview for ELLE‘s digital cover published on May 6, the “Baggage” singer shared her thoughts on artists transitioning into the country genre, citing examples like Beyoncé, Zayn Malik, and Lana Del Rey.
“If we, as country artists, are open to collaborating with top 40 or R&B artists, why wouldn’t we welcome others as well?” the 31-year-old artist questioned in the interview.
She added, “This is where people who are resisting need to reflect, because music belongs to everyone. Especially country music, which is rooted in telling the stories of the people.”
In the interview, Ballerini also spoke about her decision to use her platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights.
“I had to change my perspective from wanting to appeal to everyone to focusing on speaking to my own audience,” she shared with the publication. “I had to stop overthinking, because I’m a chronic people pleaser.”
Ballerini added, “Any sort of conflict or backlash is really overwhelming for me. For a long time, I didn’t speak out on anything because I needed to find my footing first.”
She concluded, “But at the end of the day, I want the people who listen to my music to understand what I stand for and hopefully resonate with that.”
In an April 2025 cover story for PEOPLE, Ballerini reflected on the lessons she learned from her headlining arena tour and how she made it an inclusive experience.
The “We Broke Up” artist noted that there were more “boyfriends and husbands” in the audience at her shows.
“I always make a point to connect with the girls and the gays, but I really strive to be inclusive, and I feel like I have songs for everyone,” Ballerini explained. “Especially with ‘Cowboys Cry Too’ now in the set, it’s like, ‘Hold on, Kelsea, make sure you’re being open to everyone.'”