Kellylee Evans Receives Honorary Doctorate of Music

Folk Canada
Jun 22
2 min read

Kellylee Evans Receives Honorary Doctorate of Music

Juno Award-winning singer-songwriter Kellylee Evans has received an honorary Doctor of Music degree from Carleton University, where she delivered the convocation address to graduating students on June 10.

A Carleton alumna, Evans was recognized for her distinguished musical career and the perseverance she has demonstrated throughout her personal and professional journey. Over the course of a career spanning more than two decades, she has released nine albums, toured internationally, and shared stages with artists including John Legend, Tony Bennett, Willie Nelson, and Erykah Badu. In 2011, she received the Juno Award for Vocal Jazz Album of the Year for her acclaimed tribute to Nina Simone, Nina.

The honour carries special meaning for Evans, who left graduate studies in legal philosophy at Carleton to pursue music following the loss of her mother to cancer. Her journey has since included international success, as well as significant health challenges, including a life-altering lightning strike in 2013 and years of recovery from concussion-related injuries.

Today, Evans continues to perform, record, and speak across Canada, sharing a message of possibility, purpose, and the courage to begin again. Through music and storytelling, she encourages audiences to look beyond setbacks, reconnect with their deepest aspirations, and create lives that reflect who they truly are. Her latest release, Show Love, reflects the hope, joy, and authenticity that continue to shape her artistic journey.

The honorary doctorate recognizes not only Evans’ contributions to Canadian music but also her commitment to inspiring others through her artistry, leadership, and example.

UPCOMING SHOW DATES

June 25 - Ottawa Jazz Festival - Story and Song Interview - Bobby Previte - Ottawa, ON

June 26 - Ottawa Jazz Festival - Story and Song Interview - Myra Melford - Ottawa, ON

June 27 - Ottawa Jazz Festival - Story and Song Interview - SALIN - Ottawa, ON

June 28 - Ottawa Jazz Festival - Story and Song Interview - Jodi Proznick - Ottawa, ON

July 17 - Music and Beyond Festival - Ottawa, ON

Aug 9 - Jazz on the Plaza - Burlington, ON

Sep 22 - NAC - David Suzuki’s Playlist with NACO - Ottawa, ON

Sep 25 - THEOP - Deep River, ON

Sep 26 - Robo Lounge - Ottawa, ON

Sep 27 - Watson’s Mill - Manotick, ON

Dec 6 - A Few Acres Farm - Russell, ON