Kaeyra (real name — Carolina Barlas) is an American singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist of Polish descent who gained widespread recognition after participating in American Idol in 2023. Her powerful voice, stage charisma, and emotionally rich performances captivated both the judges and audiences around the world.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Carolina Barlas was born and raised in the United States to a family of Polish origin. From an early age, she was passionate about music, studying vocals as well as piano and guitar. As a teenager, she began posting covers and original songs on YouTube, which helped her build an initial audience and showcase her distinctive tone and artistry.
Performing under the stage name Kaeyra, she took part in various music competitions and festivals, developing her own sound that blends elements of pop music, soul, and alternative rock.
American Idol
In 2023, Kaeyra became a contestant on the 21st season of American Idol. During her audition, she impressed the judges with a soulful rendition of Joni Mitchell’s “River”, earning high praise and audience support. Throughout the show, she demonstrated her vocal mastery and artistic versatility, performing both classic and contemporary hits. Her appearance on American Idol brought her international fame and marked the beginning of an active professional career.
Musical Style and Artistry
Kaeyra’s music combines pop, soul, and alternative influences, characterized by powerful vocals, emotional delivery, and atmospheric arrangements. Beyond singing, she writes her own songs, drawing inspiration from personal experiences and real-life stories.
Some of her best-known releases include “Kiss Kiss”, “Sour”, and “Lover” (a collaboration with Polish producer Gromee), as well as “All My Love” and “I Told You So”, which received positive feedback from listeners. Her tracks are available on major digital platforms including Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube Music.
Present Day
Following her success on American Idol, Kaeyra continues to perform across the United States and internationally, collaborating with producers and songwriters while working on her debut studio album. Her music is evolving toward a heartfelt pop sound infused with cinematic soul and alternative elements.
She remains active on social media, sharing behind-the-scenes moments, live performances, and announcements of new releases. With her authenticity and vocal power, Kaeyra stands out as one of the most promising young artists to emerge from American Idol in recent years.
