Makayla Charleen’s new single “Hot As Texas” is more than just a sultry, smooth-burning country tune — it’s a snapshot of where the Kelowna-based artist is headed.
With its bluesy undertones, banjo twang, and easy charm, the track blends contemporary country with a classic vibe. But for Makayla, this song is just one part of a bigger journey — one filled with unexpected influences, self-discovery, and an ever-deepening connection to the genre that’s now at the core of her artistry.
Listen To “Hot As Texas”
“Hot As Texas”: The Right Song at the Right Time
When Makayla first heard Hot As Texas, it wasn’t part of her plan — but it quickly became part of her path. Written by Canadian songwriters Parker Graye, Daniel Bottyan, and Garrett Ward, the track was already crafted when she stumbled upon it. Still, it stuck with her.
“It was in my head for weeks,” she recalls. “I just kept coming back to it — I connected with it immediately.” With Parker’s blessing and full creative support from producers Daniel and Garrett (with The Renaissance), Makayla recorded the single — and brought her own flair to its production. Drawing inspiration from artists like Riley Green and Ella Langley, they built an arrangement that fits seamlessly into her sound — a blend of contemporary country with touches of southern rock, honkytonk energy, and just the right amount of blues.
RELATED: Catch our coverage of Makayla’s single “Hot As Texas” …
Working with Bottyan and Ward was a highlight for Makayla. “They’re compassionate, creative, kind — it felt more like hanging out than recording,” she says. “They had a clear vision but made space for mine, too.”
Finding Her Voice (and Her Boots)
Though her musical roots include theatre, piano, and plenty of vocal training, it wasn’t until Makayla landed in Vernon, BC that country music found its way into her life. “Before that, I never really listened to country,” she admits. “But suddenly, it was all around me — at bush parties, river floats, campfires. I gave in, and I fell in love with it.” For her, country became a way to process emotions and connect with others — “It’s music that lets you feel your feelings.”
Makayla’s vocal tone is deep, resonant, and unmistakably hers — something she didn’t always embrace. “At first, I worried it didn’t match the commercial sound,” she says. “But now, I see it as part of what makes me unique.” Influences like Kacey Musgraves, Carrie Underwood, and Miranda Lambert helped shape her path, but it’s her own authenticity that shines through.
And yes — it’s boots all the way. “I’ve got way too many,” she laughs. “Boulets are my everyday walking boots.” When asked about her dream duet partners, she doesn’t hesitate: Alan Jackson or George Strait for something classic, Aaron Watson if she’s looking to rock.
What’s Next: Wine Country Gigs & Festival Dreams
With Hot As Texas out in the world, Makayla is staying busy — two shows at the Cloverdale Rodeo, hometown gigs at Okanagan wineries, and a new single lined up for late summer titled Roughin’ Up My Sole. She’ll also be attending the CCMAs for the first time — fittingly, hosted this year in her hometown.
@frontporchmusic We asked @Makayla Charleen to share the experience of releasing a new song as a newer artist. #countrymusic #newmusic ♬ Marlboro Might – Makayla Charleen
Outside of music, she’s deeply grounded in mental health work, holding a BA in Psychology and working in the field. Her love of mindfulness shows in her approach to songwriting, journaling, and spending time outdoors. “Music and mental health are deeply connected for me,” she says. “Both are ways of grounding — of finding compassion for yourself and others.”
Between paddleboarding, gardening, and the occasional couch cuddle with her rescue dog Snoopy, Makayla is charting her own course — one bootstep at a time.
“I love songwriting, performing, recording — it fuels me. I love my 9-to-5, but songwriting has my heart.”
Lauren Lee
Growing up, I was an avid country music hater. Dean Brody won me over in my 20s and my enjoyment of the genre has steadily increased since then, especially after moving to Alberta. I'm a lover of music, explorer of new places, asker of questions, admirer of nature, and socializer extraordinaire.
