Raine's music is the "tweet" sound of innovation.
An Okotoks-born artist has made a name for herself in the Calgary music scene with her unique sound, earning the People’s Choice Award at the 2026 YYC Music Awards.
Kelsey Raine, known by her musical alias Alice Awake, won the Award for her single Silly Alice, released in December 2025.
Raine’s music often incorporates unconventional sounds, such as birds recorded in Crystal Shores and the hum of a broken freezer from Main Street Market, into her songs. This experimental approach has become a defining part of her work.
From playing small shows at the Royal Duke in Okotoks to becoming an Award-winning artist, Raine’s journey has been marked by a willingness to take creative risks. She recalls the challenges of pushing new sounds in Okotoks, where there was initially hesitation around introducing different kinds of music.
However, Raine’s perseverance paid off, and she was able to create a thriving music scene in Okotoks. She notes that the community has grown and become more inclusive, with a greater appreciation for diverse cultural events.
Raine’s approach to music has always been about finding a balance between pushing the boundaries of what is considered “normal” and creating something accessible to a wider audience. Her recent project with Alice Awake was no exception, as she sought to incorporate her experimental style into a more mainstream sound.
With the help of producer Brenden Hiebert, Raine was able to create a song that was both unique and catchy. The result was Silly Alice, which won over the hearts of the YYC Music Awards audience and earned Raine the People’s Choice Award.
Raine’s win is a testament to her dedication to her craft and her willingness to take risks. As she continues to create music that pushes the boundaries of what is possible, she remains true to her Okotoks roots and the community that has supported her along the way.
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