ATWG: Thanks again Meagan for doing this interview I really appreciate it and you know I appreciate you!
MM :Thank you! I appreciate the compliment.
ATWG: Being so talent, who and where do you get your inspirations from?
Inspiration comes in so many forms, I guess the easiest way is to describe it in segments.
For writing, I pull inspiration from EVERYWHERE.. Literally. I’m inspired by beauty, struggle, LOVE, injustice, just LIFE! I appreciate single blades of grass and rose petals, the harmony of creating life and the sounds of the city. I am inspired by seeing people who have struggles but triumph during adversity. I am inspired by epiphanies and small realizations. Inspired by children learning! It’s crazy, but it’s almost as if my heart swells up and wants to burst open from joy or how my stomach sinks and heartaches in times of sorrow.
Musical inspirations are endless . Ella Fitzgerald, Stevie Wonder, Jill Scott, Rachelle Farelle, Erykah Badu, Steve Vai, India Arie, Jay-Z, Luther Vandross….all for different reasons! I love the hearts of artists who seem to have a connection to REAL life, REAL issues and can speak to people through music in a way that helps life situations become clear or relatable!
ATWG: When did you decide to start a music career?
MM: August 18 2007! Sentimental Soul Sessions Vol. 1! My very first show with a live band! I was in Kalamazoo Michigan a recent initiate of DELTA SIGMA THETA sorority Incorporated! When I realized people would actually come out, pay money and listen to me sing for more than 30 minutes, I was sold! I had an incredible night, and actually made a few bucks!
ATWG: From hearing some of your music what genre of music would you fit yourself into? Neo-Soul, Jazz or a little bit of both?
MM: I would definitely say a bit of both. I work daily to unbraid myself and learn more about who I am, I create new definitions all the time. Let’s just say…. LIFE music.lol
ATWG: Seeing that you are already far in the game do you remember your first gig? If so how did you get it and where was it?
MM: My first “gig” was August 18, 2007. But my very first time singing in public was in November 16, 1996. It was my aunt and uncles wedding in Chicago, IL. I remember wanting to be in my aunt’s wedding so badly! And she said I could as long as I would sing as she came down the aisle! Watching the footage…priceless. lol
ATWG: Where can inquiring minds find your music?
MM: So glad you asked. One can visit: www.meaganmcneal.com
www.cdbaby.com/artists/meaganmcneal and on iTunes
ATWG: Any upcoming performances? If so where?
MM: I have a few things lined up on the calendar all of which are located in the Midwest. Kalamazoo, Chicago, Ohio, etc. I have some things in the pipeline, that I would love to talk about at a later date! * finger’s crossed!
ATWG: What advice would you give to young artist who do not have a road map on where to start?
MM: I will tell them like one of my favorites, Jill Scott, told me… Sing everywhere… you never know who may hear you. Also, STAY TRUE TO SELF, I believe in Happiness… I welcome it and try to make sure my choices match up to what will make me happy in the long run. Be yourself…
ATWG: How are you an “Around the way girl?”
MM: Fashion Blogger, Meagan Lee, says it best… iaME all of me! I am an around the way girl because I realize that I am no “bigger” or better than anyone else! We ALL have something to contribute to the world! In this vast universe, “I am one spec on this spec lost in the dust.”
