How did your journey in music begin, and what inspired you to pursue a career in the industry?
Since I can remember, I have been drawn to stories and how they connect humanity, particularly as it relates to the stories in music. I started writing lyrics and poetry from a young age and would be drawn to elements of music that others didn’t notice. Whether it be the syncopated drum line of the chorus or particular harmonies, I would get lost in the details of music and be teased for the little things in a song that would move me. I knew I approached music differently than others, so when I started writing songs on my guitar and piano in middle school I wasn’t surprised. I was in talent shows and audition choirs all throughout high school, but when I went to college I pursued a career in journalism & marketing where I could use my writing skills in a “more realistic way.” However, six years into my career I found myself writing music on the way to work, throughout work, and on the way home. I knew I needed to get to Nashville to be among my people, so I quit my job, packed up a uHaul, and never looked back!
Can you tell us about your musical style and the genres that influence your work?
My musical style is very fluid, meaning I write in whichever genre I believe the song demands. I’ll write country music if I want to tell a detailed story and really set the scene. If I want to push the lyrical boundaries, I”ll write more pop or Indie pop. And if I am being very vague and more so wanting to exude a certain emotion, I’ll write for the sync industry in mind. I’m inspired by any writer who can use less to say more as well as write for many different genres and styles within those genres. For example, the writing of Ed Sheeran that paints a full lifetime in just four lines, Brett James who has written countless country hits including Jesus Take the Wheel, and Freddy Wexler who has written for a prolific group such as Celine Dion, Billy Joel, and Halsey.
What's the story behind your latest release, and what message or emotion are you trying to convey through your music?
This song is for any woman who has been told she was crazy when she called out her man for suspicious behavior. When a narcissist gets called out for cheating or lying they feel they are losing their power and they can’t stand it. This song is about standing up for yourself and knowing it’s okay to walk away. A lot of songs about cheating involve pretty aggressive responses, and that certainly has its place, but I wanted to create a song that simply stated, “sometimes knowing that you were right is all you needed.”
How do you approach the songwriting process? Do you have a specific method or routine?
I always come up with my hook or the thesis of what I’m trying to say, then I write around that. Every sentence, every line needs to point the listener to the hook. I always believe in the saying “don’t bore us, get to the chorus!” I tend to say what I need to say and then hit the listener with a big chorus where they know the hook is coming. I also don’t let perfect get in the way of done. I certainly write what I think is the best line, but I don’t agonize over it for a long period of time. In the days/weeks you spent wondering should it be this word or that word you could’ve written two other songs. I also don’t believe in hitting your listener over the head. A “see what I did there” moment can lose your listener. Keeping it vague can open it up for more people to relate to what it is you are saying.
What challenges have you faced as an emerging artist, and how have you overcome them?
I think the biggest challenge and constant challenge is finding your people. It’s about quality over quantity when it comes to your artist community. Don’t surround yourself with anyone who is only in it for themselves, and don’t waste your time on people who don’t seem to be putting in the work you are. Find your driven, community-focused people, and hold on to them!
Are there any artists or bands that have had a significant impact on your musical journey?
Ellie Goulding comes to mind right away. It is clear she is classically trained and yet not afraid to push the boundaries of her artistry. Every album she puts out is different from the last, and I find that so inspiring. Carrie Underwood tells fantastic stories and the color of her voice is one I try to mimic.
How do you stay creative and inspired when working on new music?
I often go to live writers nights when I need fresh content. I hear a song and think to myself “how would I have written that?” I often write my best stuff fresh off of a live show. It’s also important to learn how to co-write. I truly believe the best songs have multiple writers on them because they can give the most perspective and you can easily lean into another’s POV.
Can you share a memorable moment or highlight from your career so far?
A few years after moving to Nashville, I was given the privilege of performing at a private event for a group of foreign diplomats on the Grand Ole Opry stage. I got to access the artist entrance and literally walk in the steps of many of the music legends. I then got to sit and warm up in the dressing room where countless of my idols had prepped their hair and makeup before their opry debut. I then led an “in the round” - this is where you are joined by a few others writers who take turns telling the story behind the song and then singing it. We sang about God, family, heartache, and love for people from all around the world, from Southeast Asia, to the Middle East, to Europe. It was an amazing night to see that music is one language that can transcend and connect us all in the human experience.
In what ways do you use social media and online platforms to connect with your audience?
I use social media to make announcements of upcoming singles and shows, and as a way to interact via messenger! If someone sends me a message, I always respond (within reason). I also use social media as a way to go behind the scenes. I know I am always interested in the story and process behind the song, so I try to give followers a taste of that.
What one inspirational quote or montra you believe in and where can people connect with you at?
“Waymaker, miracle worker, promise keeper, light in the darkness. My God, that is who you are.” This is one of my favorite songs from CCM. It reminds me that even in my worries, and struggles, the God of the universe is bigger than all of this. It is my anthem when things aren’t going how I thought they would, and I need to remember that a great God who loves me is on the move is in charge.