Local singer wins international musical award at stateside gala

Traci Kennedy was recently named the International Rising Star of the Year by the ISSA at an awards ceremony in Atlanta, Georgia. (Contributed Photo)

Lee Griffi, Editor

Traci Kennedy has been named the International Rising Star of the Year by the International Singer-Songwriters Association (ISSA).

The 60-year-old Oxford County singer was honoured at an ISSA awards ceremony at the Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center in Atlanta, Georgia.

“Winning this award was an incredibly humbling and emotional experience. To be recognized on an international stage for doing something I’ve loved for most of my life was truly beyond anything I could have imagined,” Kennedy said.

“I’m especially grateful to everyone who has supported my music and believed in my journey along the way. This award isn’t just a milestone for me; it’s a reminder that it’s never too late to keep chasing your dreams.”

Kennedy has been in the entertainment business for 42 years and is well known throughout Oxford and Elgin counties for performing at long-term care and retirement homes.

She said receiving the award gives her a tremendous sense of accomplishment.

“I have so much support behind me, and people are encouraging me to keep going and do what I do. When it comes back like this, it just means the world.”

Kennedy said her love of music led her to take early retirement from her part-time job at a dental office so she could focus on performing full time.

“I want to continue to go into the (care) homes because without the residents I’m not sure where I would be. They are my saving grace.”

In July 2022, Kennedy’s life was changed forever when her 30-year-old daughter, K’Lee, died by suicide.

In the aftermath of her loss, Kennedy wrote the song “You Never Said Goodbye,” which received a 2025 Josie Music Award nomination.

The experience has also inspired Kennedy to return to songwriting.

“I think I am going to start dusting off some of the songs I started writing and see if I can get them out there and give my followers what they’ve been wanting, and that’s more music out of me.”

Kennedy also praised the ISSA, saying the organization provides much more than recognition for musicians.

“They are such a supportive group of people, almost like a family. Even going to the awards for the first time, my husband and I, people were coming up to me and talking, and they knew who I was. These were people I had never met before. It was like we already knew each other. It was amazing to feel that love and support.”

Kennedy said she is grateful for every part of her musical journey and for the people who have supported her along the way.

“This award may have my name on it, but this moment belongs to everyone who has cheered me on and helped me keep believing in the dream.”

Kennedy, like so many other singers and songwriters, was influenced by Dolly Parton. She said the country legend touched many people’s lives in many ways.

“I honestly don’t even know what to say. Dolly was so much more than a country music legend. She was a songwriter, a storyteller, a dreamer, a trailblazer, and a beautiful example of what it means to stay humble while touching millions of lives.”

She added Parton was an inspiration.

“Her music, her voice, her heart, her humour, her determination, and the way she always seemed to make people feel like they mattered. All of it helped shape the artist I became. As a fellow songwriter and performer, I can only hope that someday I can leave even a tiny fraction of the impact that Dolly left on this world.”

Kennedy said the music world feels a little quieter and the rhinestones shine a little less brightly.

“Rest peacefully, Dolly. We will always love you.”