Here's something nobody can really prepare you for as a recording musician: the moment you're sitting in the studio and your producer strikes gold.
It happened last night in Carson's studio. We started on the album's first track and just let everything come out organically. I walked in with a melody and a handful of words, and he alchemized them into something magic. The shape of it is still coming together, but I had actual chills. At one point I was squealing and kicking my feet like a toddler who just found the good snacks.
What I keep thinking about is the trust. I trust Carson completely with these songs, and he trusts me enough to hear "what if we use props to build the soundscape?" and say "okay, let's try it." I know a creative relationship like that is rare, and I don't take it for granted.
I'm also lucky to be working with a second producer who shows up in a different way. He'll hear what we've built and say "let's try this synth," and suddenly the whole thing opens up. Different kinds of magic, same album. More on him soon.
Now, 8 days until Frontwomen Fright Night.
That's Wednesday, October 28 at The East Room, and I'm on at 10:00pm. Please come in costume, because I sure will be. Get tickets here.
Here's what prep looks like right now:
- Running while I sing. If you saw my video from last week, you know this is my go-to for learning a set. I picked it up in my master's program: run the whole set, breath and all, so it's in my body and not just my head. It's still the best trick I know.
- Corset reacclimation. I learned how to sing in a corset in grad school, so I know how to do it. My lungs just haven't been in one in a while, so I'm easing back in so I can breathe like a professional all night.
- A new synth. I got it so I can build the sounds for the set myself. I want it to feel like you walked into another world, or at least as immersive as the venue will let me make it.
If you can't make it on the 28th, not to fret! There's another one coming. I'll be at the Women Make Music Showcase on Sunday, November 8 at 4:00pm at Vintage Bean Café. Come early and grab a coffee.
Love y'all, text me when you get home <3
Maggie