Michelle Wright has returned with her first release of original music in seven years, Strong, which released today, July 9 and Top Country had the privilege to chat with Michelle about her new album.
Q:
What made you decide to make another record?
A:
It was time to get new music out, so I took some time off the road to write. I co-wrote 10 of the 11 songs. It’s also just fun and exciting to record a new album and I love the creative process.
Q:
What was the songwriting process for Strong like?
A:
Songwriting for me is the most challenging part of what I do because I want to write great songs. I had a fantastic time writing with some wonderful songwriters, and I appreciate them sharing their talent with me and understanding when I need us to dig just a little deeper. I also need someone I trust who can tell me to, “let it go. The song is finished!”
Q:
What’s a song on your album you’re particularly proud of and why?
A:
That’s a difficult question to answer. Each one of the songs were chosen because they represent an emotion or an experience that means something to me. The emotional connection that I feel when I listen to a song is important to me so if I have to pick one it would be “I’ll Cry Too.” It’s one friend saying to another “I will be there. I won’t try to fix anything or use any clichés, like ‘time heals’ or ‘everything happens for a reason.'” None of that. Just simply that, “I’m here for you.”
Q:
The music video for “Strong” features photographs of real-life women who have overcome obstacles and challenges in their lives, how did you come up with the idea of incorporating those women into the video?
A:
Many of the pictures in the video are women that I know, who in one way or another have affected my life through their courage and strength. As we were writing “Strong,” I realized that their impact on me was starting to be expressed as the song unfolded. I’m thankful that I was able to honor these women in this song.
Q:
What are a few specific lines or lyrics from the album that you particularly love?
A:
“I want a crazy stupid love. Wild and wreck less and all messed up.”
“If I could organize it and redesign it and do it all again. Paint a picture perfect story book where everybody wins.”
“When your heart is numb and you want to feel, it will only hurt, till it’s time to heal.”
Look for Michelle at the following festivals this summer:
July 12, 2013 – Atlin Arts & Music Festival – Atlin, BC
August 10, 2013 – Acoustic Concert in the Round – Exeter, ON
September 6, 2013 – Shores of Erie Wine Festival – Amherst, ON
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