Atrist interview: Millie Atlas
Get to know Millie Atlas, the rising star behind the hit single "Lonerheart." In this exclusive interview, Millie opens up about her creative process, musical influences, and what drives her to write songs that resonate with listeners. From her relatable lyrics to her authentic artistry, Millie shares her thoughts on music, self-expression, and what it means to be a "lonerheart" in today's world. Dive into our conversation with Millie Atlas and discover the story behind her captivating music.
Tori: What inspired you to write "Lonerheart," and what message do you hope it conveys to your listeners?
Millie: Lonerheart came from a place of feeling isolated and a bit like the ugly duckling. It really speaks to all the people who get to a social setting and just feel like the odd one out.
Tori: Can you walk us through your songwriting process for "Lonerheart," and how you came up with the idea for this song?
Millie: I wrote the song over the span of 3 years–my ADHD brain causes me to forget things all the time–and I really wanted a song that honoured the introverts & anxious girlies, because lets be real, we would much rather be in bed by 9pm than drinking around people you don't even like! When I got to the studio with Tom, a producer at 4000 studios, we were playing with ideas of structure and trying to push the usual verse, pre, chorus, verse, etc. structure. We landed on "We Are Young" by FUN. and honestly started throwing things at a wall and seeing what sticks and we got the structure that we landed on.
Tori: How do you think your musical influences, like Missy Higgins and Taylor Swift, have shaped your sound?
Millie: So, I am a DIE HARD Higgins and Swift fan and always try to incorporate a song of theirs in my sets. From a sound perspective, I always try to be as open and vulnerable as possible, especially in my writing. I want it to feel like you are right there with me whilst I'm writing in my diary or a fly in my brain. To be totally honest, I am always writing on the guitar or piano and it is really important to me that a song can be stripped back to those instruments and sound just as strong as it would with all the fun production.
Tori: What do you think makes "Lonerheart" so relatable to listeners who feel like outsiders in social settings?
Millie: God, I really do think the honest lyrics strike a chord with those who feel so different. I like to pride myself on being as raw as possible and I think Lonerheart delves into those scenarios you find yourself in at a party, especially when you would rather make friends with the host's dog than the drunk kids playing beer pong.
Tori: How do you think music can be used as a tool for self-expression and empowerment?
Millie: As I've gotten older, I've found myself turning to music and writing in almost every single life situation whether it be a coping mechanism for a tough moment or it to capture a feeling in time. Music is the ultimate window into someone's mind and being able to create stuff that people want to listen to is a real honour.
Tori: What drives your creativity, and how do you stay inspired to write songs that are both personal and relatable?
Millie: I try not force anything when it comes to writing and when I have urges to write and things are flowing in the moment, I will just keep going until my brain has had enough. I've found thats the best way I can stay authentic to myself, my sound and my artistry. I am constantly inspired by people and those close to me in life and weirdly enough by the books that I read - yep I love writing tracks for characters!
Tori: How do you define your musical identity, and what sets you apart?
Millie: I'd like to think that I am embracing my awkward, not-put-together self and shine a light on real life situations and feelings, especially whilst I'm navigating my 20's and I think that is starting to resonate with listeners alike.
Tori: Can you tell us about your approach to lyrical storytelling and how you craft your songs?
Millie: It almost always starts at the guitar or piano. Every now and then I will get a line come to me before I fall asleep or in public and I immediately record it in my voice memos app for later. I tend to write front to back as well but honestly, whatever is coming out at that moment I will go with because forcing things is not a great feeling for me.
Tori: How do you balance vulnerability with creativity in your songwriting?
Millie: When I was younger I found it really difficult to be as exposed as I think I am now in my writing, as I was constantly worried about what people thought of me! What 19 year old wasn't?!. Now, after many years of ongoing therapy, I am embracing my flaws and my current place in life and feel like I am really finding my people with my music, 'ause we are all struggling out here!
Tori: How do you connect with your fans, and what role do you think music plays in building a sense of community and understanding?
Millie: I honestly would be lost without social media. It has been a game changer for me and allowed to not only to connect one-to-one with people who listen and LOVE my music, but expand my community within Australia and internationally. I'd like to think that my music is a place where likeminded chooks can feel less isolated.
Tori: What are you most looking forward to about releasing new music, and are there any upcoming projects or collaborations you can share with us?
Millie: There is always new music in the works! I will probably have another 1-2 tracks come out this year which will super fun !
Tori: What is your favorite part about performing live, and how do you prepare for your shows?
Millie: Performing live is so much fun! Honestly, getting to meet people is the highlight for me but a forever pinch me moment is when I see people singing along to my lyrics. Prepping for shows is a whole other ball game. I am yet to perform with a band and am honestly my own critic so practice for weeks, even months leading up to shows making sure it sounds the way I want it to.
Tori: How do you see your music evolving in the future, and what themes or styles do you think you'll explore?
Millie: I would really love to dive into my folk side as I have always had a soft spot for that genre of music. I have a whole trove of music in that genre waiting to be recorded but I am really waiting to find the right people and time to do that.
Tori: What message or theme do you hope listeners take away from "Lonerheart," and how do you think it can impact their lives?
Millie: I hope people walk away from the track feeling less alone than they initially did. I'd love to think that it would make people feel like they are apart of the 'lonerheart' club and that is something to be proud of, not shy away from... because lets be real, socialising is exhausting and dogs are better than humans.
Tori: How has your music career influenced your personal growth, and what advice would you give to aspiring musicians?
Millie: I'm only two tracks into my career but MY GOD has my personal life evolved with my career! I am living a much more carefree life and really embracing my anxiety and the waves it comes in. Being an indie artist is tough —don't get me wrong—but it is also incredibly rewarding and humbling and just the absolute best. Aspiring artists, you absolutely got this! Trust your craft, trust your gut and be prepared to work your butt off!
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