“Drunk Plans” has such a relatable theme. What inspired you to write about unfulfilled plans and the honesty that comes with them?
This song started with the fact that I am notorious for making plans, especially when I’m out and about. I came in with the idea of writing a song about making brunch plans, which quickly turned into drunk plans. I just think it’s such a fun take on a universal topic.
How was it working with Brad Hill on this track, and what unique qualities did he bring to the production?
Working with Brad is always a lot of fun. He has such great intuition when it comes to the musical direction of a song and how to tie that to who I am as an artist. He’s really great at tailoring his production to each artist, so getting to collaborate with him has been pretty special.
“Drunk Plans” leads your upcoming EP. Can you give us a sneak peek into the themes or stories we can expect in the rest of the EP?
The upcoming EP feels pretty unapologetic. I really wanted to write what I felt and not worry so much about outside opinions so I could get back to the root of why I started music. A lot of the writing on this EP feels empowered, with a level of self-awareness in each song. It comes down to me dialing in who I am and acknowledging or poking fun at certain parts of my personality. It’s been pretty reflective writing this project, haha!
You’ve had a phenomenal year, from your debut at CMA Fest to performances with iconic artists. What has been the most surreal moment so far?
It’s been a pretty surreal year, that’s for sure. It’s hard for me to nail down one moment because there’ve been so many, but if I had to choose, it would probably be CMA Fest. Playing that festival has always been a dream of mine, and being invited to make my debut was a huge reminder that I’m on the right path.
Your ballad “If This Is Love” resonated with many fans. How did it feel to see it gain over 1.5 million streams and win you two BCCMA Awards?
That was a huge milestone for me. “If This Is Love” still stands as one of my favorite songs I’ve released, so to see a song I was so attached to find that success was such a career highlight.
After being named Rogers Media’s “One to Watch,” how has that recognition influenced your career or approach to music?
It reassured me to trust myself in the kind of music I want to create. Watching “If This Is Love” find success on radio and streaming was a big catalyst for creating this current project. It let me know that I can make the style of music I love and carve out a space for myself in the industry. That recognition changed a lot for me and my approach.
You’ve performed in diverse settings, from Canadian festivals to Nashville’s Song Suffragettes. How do these different audiences impact your performance?
It definitely prepares you for any situation. I’ve been lucky to be part of so many incredible shows, and I think it builds your performance chops. Writers rounds have made me more comfortable sharing my life and letting people into an experience, which has made me more open in bringing that same vulnerability into a full band show.
As an Alberta-raised, Nashville-based artist, how do these places influence your sound and songwriting?
Growing up in Alberta, I was surrounded by country music. It was always playing around the house, and that’s where I really found my love for it. Moving to Nashville has been one of the biggest influences on my most recent writing style. Being surrounded by talent here builds confidence in your originality. There’s a lane for everyone, and Nashville has been pivotal in learning that.
Your recent single “Sendin’ Myself to Church” was well-received. What message or feeling were you hoping to convey with that track?
“Sendin’ Myself to Church” was such a fun song to write. I’d love to think I’m always level-headed and watching my P’s and Q’s, but I can admit that every now and then things tick me off, haha! I love the idea of admitting when we need a little help to keep it together because taking the high road doesn’t always feel like the easiest path.
With “Drunk Plans” out now, what are you most excited about for your fans to experience with this release?
I’m excited for people to get to know my personality a little more, and I think it’s a great indication of where I’m headed musically. “Drunk Plans” is a lighthearted take on the empty plans and promises we make, and that kind of self-awareness carries throughout this project.
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