Speaking to a captivated audience at the Grammy Museum in Los Angeles, the country music sensation announced her plans to release an extended version of the EP titled "Rolling Up the Welcome Mat (For Good)" on August 11.
Following the release of her emotionally charged EP "Rolling Up the Welcome Mat," where she bared her soul and explored her journey through divorce, Kelsea Ballerini is preparing to draw that chapter to a close. However, she's not doing so without giving her dedicated fans the closure they deserve.
In a poignant moment, Ballerini emphasised the transition of the project from her own creation to a collective experience. "So, this project is no longer mine. It is very much so ours," she shared. The artist, known for hits like "Blindsided," acknowledged the transformation she witnessed, particularly during her performances since February. She highlighted moments from her tour, including debuting "Penthouse" in Manchester and concluding in Phoenix. Through these experiences, she felt the need to listen to her audience. "There's more to the story. 'Leave Me Again' was never the last song," she revealed.
During the event, where she discussed "Rolling Up the Welcome Mat (A Short Film)" and engaged with fan questions, Ballerini offered a taste of what's to come by playing the "full" version of "Interlude." She also delivered a heartfelt performance of "Penthouse (Healed Version)."
The original release of "Rolling Up the Welcome Mat" coincided with Valentine's Day. Ballerini described it as an evolution of her 2022 album "SUBJECT TO CHANGE." She commented on the introspective nature of the album, acknowledging themes of self-reflection and inner turmoil. "The only way I've been able to handle my life since I was 12 was to write about it," she reflected, pointing out that her musical journey began as a therapeutic outlet during her parents' divorce.
The EP, a compilation of six poignant tracks, tackles the complexities of navigating significant life shifts at a young age. Ballerini expressed that "Rolling Up the Welcome Mat" served as her means of processing these emotions, capturing them and transforming them into music, her most genuine form of expression.
As Ballerini prepares to release "Rolling Up the Welcome Mat (For Good)," her willingness to share her personal journey and growth through her music continues to resonate with fans.
