Country Music Interviews: Alyssa Micaela, Old Dominion, and Maren Morris
Photo via Maren Morris.
Nearly a decade ago, sitting down at my cramped desk or at a corner spot at a cute café, I spoke on the phone to a handful of incredibly talented country music stars. Think interviews about chart-topping Maren Morris songs, Alyssa Micaela’s debut album, and Old Dominion’s hit single. For me, country music had never been on my radar. I was not a fan. And to be honest, I wasn’t jumping in my cowboy boots at the idea of doing these interviews. It’s not that I didn’t respect these artists. It was more that I didn’t know anything about the genre and thought I might offend someone with my lack of country music knowledge.
However, upon researching, writing questions, and actually talking with Maren, Alyssa, and the guys of Old Dominion, I realized something: I might actually like country. Perhaps their songs were that good or perhaps the people behind the music were just that inspiring. I don’t know. But I can tell you that I streamed the hell out of Maren’s Hero album, and Alyssa and I still follow each other on social media. Side note: these interviews took place way before Cowboy Carter so Beyoncé did not influence my country music obsession, although she has now played a big part in getting me to branch away from R&B.
Interviewing country music singers offers a unique glimpse into the heart of a genre deeply rooted in storytelling and authenticity. Sitting down with these artists reveals the profound experiences that shape their lyrics, from personal struggles to moments of joy that resonate with fans. Often, their narratives are intertwined with their upbringing, reflecting the cultural tapestry of rural America. Questions about inspiration, the creative process, and their connection to fans spark conversations that are both heartfelt and enlightening. The informal atmosphere of country music, coupled with the genuineness of the artists, creates an engaging dialogue where they share not just their songs but also their life stories, reminding us of the power of music as a universal language.
Country Music Interviews: Chart-Topping Maren Morris Songs, Alyssa Micaela’s Debut Album, and Old Dominion’s Hit Single
Maren Morris admits she’s not a very good famous person.
She can be awkward, has an inappropriate sense of humour, loves drinking and most of the time would rather just chill with her dog and fiancé. Yet, here she is taking the country scene by storm. She’s a rare diamond in the rough and tumble world of country music.
Her debut LP Hero has been a smashing success since its release in June 2016 and it’s catapulted the pint-sized singer to ultra-stardom. She’s won a Grammy, performed a duet with Alicia Keys and recently announced her next endeavour: a North American tour with Niall Horan. And this, ladies and gentlemen, has all happened in the past year.
Morris grew up in Arlington, Texas where she started singing as a young child. As a teen she convinced her parents to let her tour around her home state—to a less than enthusiastically sized crowd. However, the tables have turned.
“There's certainly more of a turnout when I tour through Texas,” she says. “I think Texans have a special pride for their own when one of us starts doing well. It's my home, and it's always going to be my favourite state.”
Read the full interview with Maren Morris here.
Bonus Q&A with Maren Morris that didn’t make it into the final interview:
Who are some of your other musical inspirations?
Maren Morris: I really grew up listening to every style. Classic country, R&B, pop, classical. I get inspired by the most random genres because I’m genuinely an all-genre musical lover.
I love how sassy and fun your lyrics are—not to mention your “still hungover” Instagram bio. Your songs ooze confidence. You can tell you’re really true to yourself and who you are as a person, online and in your music. How has that translated into being an artist?
I think it made me put a strong foot forward. As a new artist, you’re telling the audience for the first time, this is me. These are my views and this is my compass. I think setting up a platform of honesty and strength from the beginning carries so much weight in this day and age where everyone is so afraid to be subversive or even remotely controversial. I just want to be me, and if I’m not liked by everyone, that’s okay. I know that to my true fans and myself, I’m being genuine.
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Now for a few fun questions with Maren Morris:
What’s your hidden talent?
I used to sketch portraits of people all the time, but haven’t done it in so long. I need to get back in the habit!
Where’s your dream vacation spot?
Bora Bora, Barcelona, St. Tropez, Buenos Aires... I want to see everything.
What’s your go-to on-stage outfit?
Over-the-knee boots, high-waisted shorts and a crop top. It’s foolproof.
What’s your guilty pleasure?
I love binging episodes of Veep and eating Oreos with Justin’s peanut butter. It’s so indulgent and completely delicious.
What’s the craziest thing you’ve done lately? (Besides goat yoga, lol.)
Goat yoga was certainly the weirdest thing I’ve done this month, but maybe watching the eclipse on tour at Red Rocks? It was pretty incredible to be in the beautiful Colorado mountains while seeing the sun get blacked out!
Old Dominion proves they’re not your average come-and-go country act.
Competing for a place at the top of the Country Music charts can be a daunting task. Yet, Old Dominion makes it looks easy as pie. With multiple number one songs, this five-guy band has proved they’re not your average come-and-go country act. They’re here to stay.
Following the success of their debut album Meat and Candy, the dudes of Old Dominion are back at it again with a recently released sophomore record, Happy Endings. Combining a mix of timeless country charm with witty lyrics and rock ‘n’ roll grit, this band is every bit as talented as they are unique.
We caught up with band as they’re enjoying the ride on tour to chat about their hit single No Such Thing As A Broken Heart, what the dynamic of the group is like on the road and what they hope their fans will take away from this album.
Read the full interview with Old Dominion here.
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Alyssa Micaela says her songs sound like a hot tamale.
Alyssa Micaela is on fire. With her debut album Cowboys Like That burning up the charts, a red-hot single Getaway Car and enough charisma to light up all of Texas, it’s no wonder she’s igniting the country scene all over the world.
A true country girl, Alyssa was born and raised in Odessa—a West Texas oil town known for its strong country roots—and although she now lives in Nashville, her small-town charm is something that still lends itself to her vivacious personality.
Her journey from shy kid to successful artist (she garnered over 3 million Spotify plays in less than month for Getaway Car) has been an exhilarating one. But as she says, everyone’s journey is different and that’s why she doesn’t compare herself to others. Come on—she’s gorgeous, talented, and has a good head on her shoulders? We’ll take it!
We chatted with the sassy singer about her attitude-filled lyrics, the inspiration behind her music and her fiery success.
Read the full interview with Alyssa Micaela here.
Rapid fire questions with Alyssa Micaela:
What's your all time favourite food?
I love bean and cheese burritos!!
If you could tour with one artist, who would it be?
Miranda Lambert
What's your go-to every day outfit? And your on stage outfit?
My on stage outfits aren’t too much different than my every day outfits. I love jeans, boots, t-shirts and turquoise jewelry. My closet is full of graphic tees but I never keep them the way they are...I get a little crazy with scissors and cut them up to make them my own. :) I also love fringe!!!
What's the best piece of advice you've ever gotten?
Don’t compare yourself to others because everyone’s journey is different!
What's your secret talent?
You’ll have to go party with me to find out :)
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