Q&A: Maddy O'Neal Releases Must Listen Single "Bliss"
INTRODUCING MADDY O’NEAL: a visionary artist whose latest single, "Bliss," captures the essence of euphoria and introspection. Collaborating with Shylow and Brit Lari, O'Neal delves into the creative process that birthed this captivating track. The synergy between the artists shines through, as O'Neal explains the seamless exchange of ideas and the collaborative evolution of the song's emotional landscape.
"Bliss" emerges as the final single before O'Neal's upcoming EP, Mind Over Matter, setting the tone for a collection that celebrates freedom, expression, and living in the present. The artist delves into the significance of each track and how they collectively embody the belief that individuals shape their own reality. As O'Neal prepares to unveil her EP, her hope is to inspire and empower listeners with her perspective, encouraging them to embrace their unique journey.
For aspiring artists, O'Neal's advice resonates—immersing oneself in the artistic community, trusting intuition, and embracing evolution are essential steps toward creating a distinct sound. As O'Neal embarks on a fall tour, she eagerly anticipates sharing her new era and exploring exciting collaborations.
LUNA: Congrats on the release of your latest single "Bliss”! Can you give us a sneak peek into the creative process behind this track?
O'NEAL: I discovered Shylow working with Westwood Recordings when he did a remix for me back in 2019. He was one of the only producers I knew at the time that was doing this similar future bass influence combined with the heavier "bass" songs that just hit my vibe so hard. We started this track over a year ago, passing the song back and forth virtually since he lives in Canada and were in search of the perfect vocalist. Britt Lari came into the mix so flawlessly it was like we had been waiting for her all along. The lyrics written paint such a clear picture of this blissful moment it's undeniable that you feel the inspiration behind it. Her incredible pop vocal stylings mixed with story telling ability really hit on this one.
LUNA: The title "Bliss" suggests a sense of euphoria. What emotions or experiences inspired the creation of this song, and how did you work to capture those feelings within the music?
O'NEAL: Whenever I work with a vocalist I like to give them a certain level of creative freedom. We obviously laid the instrumental and vibey groundwork for Britt but when I approached her I kinda gave her an overview of the record’s theme - mind over matter - and explained that with each track I wanted to take the listener to a certain place in their minds while giving her the freedom to interpret the track in her own way. Britts lyrics in “Bliss” talk about the appreciation for the dreams that ignite action as well as the experiences that leave us speechless and hungry for more. Britt said, “it is a fiery combination of desire, drive, and adventure, which to me, is pure bliss." She definitely nailed the vibe and direction.
LUNA: Collaborations often bring unique dynamics to a project. Could you share a bit about the synergy between you, Shylow, and Brit Lari while working on "Bliss," and how each artist's perspective contributed to the final product?
O'NEAL: Shylow and I actually clicked super well in this collaborative process. I sent him the idea initially and we passed the project back and forth a few times (always helps when you use the same DAW and plugins when working remotely). When we got to a stopping point with the track we realized that we needed vocals to complete our idea. We shopped the tune around and kind of auditioned a few vocalists in our minds until we landed on Britt. Her style and voice in general ended up being just so perfect. Britt is a major pro and busted out lyrics in like a day or two. I had given her a sample vocal I used previously in the tune that I was digging but said to take the inspiration and run with it. She asked me what the context was and if I wanted the lyrics to be empowering and my note to her while writing was to "expand on the vibe of a particular moment of bliss.”
LUNA: As the final single before your EP drops, how does "Bliss" fit into the broader narrative of "Mind Over Matter," and what role does it play in setting the tone for the upcoming release?
O'NEAL: This EP marks a new chapter for me, a freedom era. I've been through so many phases of my artistry and something just clicked when writing my last record where I satisfied so many different parts of my brain and that I've been feeling this sense of endless possibility in my exploration. Mind Over Matter represents this belief that you are completely in control of your reality. Musically and lyrically this EP represents an era where expression is free and the foundation is solid.
LUNA: As you prepare to release your EP, what are your hopes for how listeners will connect with the music and the messages you're conveying?
O'NEAL: Each of these songs are an example of an instance, feeling or ideal which you are in control and tuned in. Inspired by a feeling of manifestation and truly living in the moment, this record is an ode to that freedom of expression/owning the moments in your life. I hope people can be inspired and empowered by that perspective.
LUNA: What advice would you give to aspiring artists who are navigating the complexities of the music industry and finding their own unique sound?
O'NEAL: Being an artist is such a mental game. You have to find that sweet spot between being able to disconnect just enough to get into a flow state, but also have the confidence and the preparation to trust yourself when you get there. It took me a long, long time to get to where I am and my sound is STILL constantly evolving. My greatest advice is to immerse yourself in the community and to learn to trust yourself. That will be your greatest tool in truly becoming a unique artist because there is no other you.
LUNA: Looking beyond the EP release, what does the future hold for Maddy O'Neal? Are there any new directions you're excited to explore or collaborations you're eager to pursue?
O'NEAL: I have a big fall tour coming up so I'm excited to share this new era with everyone all over the country and test out some of these new songs finally! I have a ton of collaborations already in the works with friends and awesome producers so I am excited to do both simultaneously. Being on the road definitely feeds my creativity behind the scenes.
