Project Description

Interview with Erin McAndrew

New York-based singer songwriter Erin McAndrew is making a name for herself as a solo artist after first starting out in the music industry as the lead singer for Long Island-based rock band Tiny Giant. The alt-pop rock songstress now has a debut album called Skeleton of Life and recently took some time to chat with AMNplify – check it out below!

Erin McAndrew – photo credit: Fuller Photography

Who or what inspired you to pursue a career in music?

When I was 13, my family moved from a very small town to a suburb of Philadelphia. That move was VERY very difficult for me at such a young and difficult age. Music and singing became my escape. I knew from that point I wanted to eventually pursue a career in it. I remained active singing throughout my high school and college years, but it wasn’t until about five years ago when I started pursuing music full-time. So ever since music has always been my escape from any type of hardship or difficulties I feel. I wanted to create that for others so that they may feel comfort. Music is so universal and it heals our souls in so many ways that other things can’t. That in itself is one of my biggest inspirations.

Can you describe your sound in one sentence?

Feel-good female driven rock with storytelling within my songs.

Who are your main musical influences?

There is so many! I would have to say I am highly influenced in my song writing by Sara Bareilles, Joan Jett, Alanis Morissette and Kelly Clarkson, as well as some classic rock influences.

What inspires your song writing?

Everything! From personal experiences, to friends’ and family experiences, strangers I pass by on the street, movies, things happening in the world and the people I surround myself with. Inspiration is everywhere.

What are the themes explored on the Skeleton of Life album?

Heartbreak in relationships, finding new paths in life, never giving up, therapeutic songs written about past relationships and making changes in life and not being afraid of them.

What makes you different to similar sounding artists?

Currently my sound is a bit more pop rock mainstream, with a touch of 90s alt-rock which not as many artists are doing right now. My music can have more of that throwback nostalgic sound. Although, for my EP that I am recording now I am going a bit rawer, more grit, a bit more southern rock.  I think that will make me different than some of the artists I have been compared to in the past. Stay tuned!

What would you be doing if you weren’t involved with music?

I’ve always been passionate about all of the arts. Though I haven’t been active with it in quite some time, acting is also one of my passions which I plan to pursue in time. I would also have to say a life coach; I LOVE helping people with their goals and finding their true passion and purpose in life.

What has been your most memorable career highlight to date?

Definitely releasing my debut album Skeleton of Life last June; it was a great moment to go through the entire process of releasing it, but then also learning what I can do better next time. When I released my album I realised “Wow – I am REALLY doing this. I am really pursuing music as a career. I’m FINALLY here!”

What is something you would like to achieve career-wise that you haven’t done yet?

I have two things which both involve touring. One would be booking my first United States tour opening for an artist that I fit well with. Second, I have a wine review show on my YouTube Channel called “Rockin’ Thru the Grapevines”, so ultimately I would also like to create a winery tour in conjunction with playing at the wineries and filming my show!

If you could play any venue in the world, where would it be and why?

RADIO CITY MUSIC HALL in New York City; hands down. I have been to so many venues in New York City and a few other states and it is one of the most beautiful venues I have ever been too. The idea of even thinking about performing on that stage in one of the greatest cities in the world gives me the greatest thrill. That’s when I’ll know I have made it. See you there.

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Erin McAndrew

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