By: Quinn Que
Q) Tell us about growing up in Pennsylvania and how your early musical influences shaped your artistic development.
A) Williamsport, PA is a very small town, but I was so lucky because my biggest musical mentor and guitar teacher, Dave Brumbaugh, started “Uptown Music Collective,” which was like a school of rock. I learned so much from that man…He saw my potential, heard the soulful side in my voice and knew how to make me grow on so many levels. He’s the one that introduced me to soulful females like Eva Cassidy, Carole King, Stevie Nicks, Bonnie Raitt… Truly owe so much to Uptown Music Collective…
Q) What is the story behind your new single “How Does That Sound” and the collaboration with co-writer Gary Nichols. What inspired this romantic escape anthem?
A) Well, at the time, I was in a “falling in love” stage and we were long distance, so it was really just about finding alone time wherever we had to meet – just about being together; it didn’t matter where we went. I think that’s a beautiful feeling… just wanting that connection and when it’s reciprocated there’s no better feeling.
Q) How did your writing sessions in Muscle Shoals, Austin and Nashville contribute to the vulnerable southern soul sound you’re developing?
A) I wrote most of the album in Shoals…There’s a sound out there with the writers… They are all so soulful but in a Southern way. The other thing is Shoals is ALL ABOUT THE MUSIC – there’s no industry; it’s a super small old town and there’s nothing going on besides a ton of independent studios making music. I remember her pulling up to THE FAME Studios and that’s where we wrote that day…It’s just so chill and authentic in all the right ways.
Q) The song is described as a “vibrant, feel-good anthem” and something “made for summer.” How did you and the production team achieve that escapist feeling sonically?
A) There’s a lot more going on in the track than you would think. There’s a ton of acoustic instruments layering throughout that is adding to that train rhythm – that rhythm gives us that “getaway” feeling and the words explain the intention of wanting to escape with the one you love.
We are leading with this song intentionally because of the Americana vibe it has. This record leans much more on the Americana side of country music…Plus, this song does have that summer feeling about it!
Q) The song captures the longing for intimacy, simplicity, and freedom in our complex modern world. Why do you think these themes are particularly important right now?
A) I think the obvious answer is technology… being glued to our phones. It’s so easy for people to now compare their lives to others, which might lead to depressed feelings or not being grateful for the blessings they do have. And it’s hard not to do that with social media. This song outlines what truly will make us happy at the end of the day which is the simple things in life we take for granted.
Q) You previewed new material during your Exclusive First Listen Tour – how did audiences respond to “How Does That Sound” in those intimate settings?
A) This tour was ALL ABOUT CONNECTION… I love how these intimate type shows can actually have a discussion with the audience and build an authentic relationship with them. Getting to tell the stories behind these songs and hearing how they connect to them was such an awesome experience. I hope we do these types of shows all the time!
Q) In your travels, you’ve had some really successful events, including a standing ovation at the Grand Ole Opry. What did that moment represent for you as an artist?
A) Honestly, I needed that moment… It took me seventeen years in Nashville to finally get that moment. It’s like all the ups and downs – the crazy blood, sweat and tears led to that moment. I needed to know that I was meant to do this’ I needed that validation. I struggle with believing in myself sometimes after so many years of being knocked down. So, for someone like me that had to work so hard to get there… It’s one of the highest honors of my life.
Q) What can fans expect from a live Morgan Myles performance?
A) I hope they walk away with a deeper connection to not only me but themselves. We go through all the emotions during my set with a lot of comedy even! [laughs] I also ask the audience to give me lyrics and I wrote songs for them on the spot when it’s solo acoustic shows. It’s such a connecting moment; it’s really fun because it’s different every single night! Keeps my set fresh!
Q) What have you learned from sharing stages with artists like Luke Bryan, Jake Owen and Kane Brown?
A)I learned most I think from being on tour with Reba [McEntire]. I was so green when I ended up being a Bgv/utility player on the Reba Tour. Her crew and band took me under their wings and taught me more than they’ll ever know. They still let me hang out at rehearsals, just so I can be a sponge. Such a great crew of quality humans, can’t say enough of how much I love and respect them.
Q) Who are some artists that you would love to collaborate with on music in the future?
A) I would love to collaborate with Red Stray Clays – the lead singer’s voice is just beyond and I would love to hear how our voices would come together… Of course, I have a thousand other artists I would love to work with as well but that’s a current one for sure!
Q) We loved seeing you on “The Voice.” What piece of advice were you given while on the show that you took to heart?
A) Just to trust myself, forge my own path even though it’s not the typical sound. I am unique and I just need to be me… be confident in that!
Q) What would you like to say to your fans and supporters?
A) To all my “Mylestones” you are the reason I’m here, thank you for showing up year after year. Without you I’d be nothing. Thank you.