Interview with Michaela Slinger.
Interviewed by: Shauna Hilferty
How are you doing today?
I’m gearing up for a show tonight in Toronto as part of NXNE! So I’m feeling anticipatory, but excited.
Where was your start with music?
I’ve been singing for as long as I can remember. Music and performance have always felt natural to me—I don’t think there was really a “starting” point.
Can you tell us what “Just This Once” is about?
Sonically, it soars and drives and makes me want to speed in a car or boat into a wide- open horizon, which captures a desire for freedom I couldn’t indulge during the pandemic. But the lyrics tell that story of frustration—specifically, wanting someone I love to be straight up, rather than trying to tiptoe around underlying issues. At that point in COVID, I think everyone was kind-of exploding and re-evaluating their life, and I totally had that hunger for complete honesty.
What was your favorite part of the songwriting process in regards to “Just This Once?”
Every songwriting and creation process is exciting, and this one was the first day I met Ryan Stewart, who’s now producing my upcoming sophomore EP. There were still COVID restrictions and it had been so long since I’d be in a physical room with another writer, and I think the song embodies that catharsis of finally creating something with another person again.
Your newest single is very reminiscent of Maggie Rogers alternative indie-pop sound. Did you draw any inspiration from her, and if not who musically inspired this track?
I love Maggie Rogers. She’s a powerful visionary and creative and I’ve been listening closely to her music since the early days. I don’t think too much about outside influences when I’m in the writing room or studio, as I’m trying to create something as specific and personal to me as possible, but our influences are always subconsciously with us as a solid foundation.
What is the most powerful set of lyrics/lines in this song?
I don’t know if I can choose! I’m proud of the story “Just This Once” tells. There’s also something really cool and immediately captivating about the opening line being “I’m gonna need a second.” I guess I’ll go with that.
Your last album, Panorama, came out in 2021. Any new albums in the works?
I’m working on my sophomore EP. “Just This Once” is the first single off of that project! The full record will be out in the spring of 2023.
What is something you’d like for listeners to know about you?
I love connecting with new listeners online or at shows. I’m a big fan of new pals.
Is there any advice you’d like to give to aspiring musicians out there?
Regardless of how overwhelming, stress-inducing, or spiritually draining your journey may be, the most critical thing is to keep joy and belief in your art at the core. It’s like this safe place to return to even on the toughest days.