Loud Hailer Magazine Interview
Meg Myers recently broke her music down in a very intimate way for
Tiny Desk and the results are something spectacular.
Once in a while, there will be an artist that stands out as being unique. Sometimes, they are more unique than most.
Meg Myers is one such person who makes this list. Meg has a little bit of rock, pop, and soul all wrapped up in one. The special thing about this shining artist is the ability to make every single song she creates sound different and have a completely different vibe than the next one and abilities such as these are not easy to obtain. Now, Meg steps up to the plate and strips away all the electricity in her music and gets a string quartet and soothing drums to fill the room and sooth behind her vocals. This is where she performs for the first time her cover of Kate Bush’s “Running up that Hill.” The entire
Tiny Desk performance is something that is different in a very positive way. Meg Myers sits down with Loud Hailer to discuss all these things and more.
LH: What was it like to break down those songs on Tiny Desk and make them intimate?
Meg: It was a challenge! The idea was to take some of the more intense songs on the album and strip them down but still maintain the power of the originals. And that was the first time we ever played “Running Up That Hill.”
LH: What went into choosing those songs?
Meg: There were requests, but then we had just finished “Running up that Hill” and I felt like it would be the perfect spot to premiere it.
LH: Why choose to cover “Running Up That Hill” and what was it like to put your twist on it?
Meg: It felt really right in the moment. It has always been “the song” that I would cover if I ever did a cover so when I decided to do it I felt confident. I also felt very connected to it with what has been going on inside of me and what I see happening in the world.
LH: After being a well-known artist for so many years, why did you feel that now was the time to create a cover that you’ve wanted to do for your whole life?
Meg: I like to take things slow.
LH: Your songs are so honest and raw. How do you mentally prepare to write songs that are so personal to you?
Meg: I just do my best to express what I am feeling in the moment, and staying out of my head. Sometimes nothing comes and sometimes something comes and then KABOOM!
LH: Was it difficult to take away the electric guitars and perform with a string quartet?
Meg: It was actually a lot of fun. It feels real natural and I love the organic sound!
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LH: You’re very outspoken about dealing with challenges throughout your whole career. What are the biggest challenges that you face and how do you manage to overcome them?
Meg: I have struggled with communication and speaking my truth all of my life. I had a difficult childhood and experienced abusive relationships and I am actually just now truly starting to learn what it feels like to trust myself. I am overcoming fear with meditation, kundalini yoga, nature and therapy.
LH: 2018 was a huge year for you! What does 2019 hold?
Meg: I have another collection of original studio recordings coming out this summer that I am really excited about. Also will most likely tour in the Fall.
LH: How did you manage to keep that fire on Tiny Desk without all the instruments that we know contribute to the Meg Myers sound?
Meg: I think the nerves gave us all an adrenaline rush.
LH: What was the defining moment of your career? When did you realize you were actually living your dream?
Meg: I am not sure I have had a defining moment. I love writing songs and performing. Maybe it’s today. Right now? Right now is my defining moment!
LH: You really are all about visuals. Why do you think music videos are important? Which one was your favorite to film?
Meg: I think the “Numb” video is probably my favorite and the “Running Up That Hill” video is gonna be bonkers awesome! I just love acting and giving music a visual expression/meaning.
LH: Any final thoughts? The floor is yours. Anything you’d like to say?
Meg: I love you all!
10-09-18 | 04:59 AM
