Maddie Leigh Interview

Maddie Leigh Interview

by Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine

With rich vocals, and bona fide southern charm, Maddie Leigh is leading the next generation of female country singers. Not many can say they have headlined two major music festivals at the tender age of 17, or opened for Jason Aldean, Tucker Beathard, Honey County and performed on the Spotlight Stage at CMA Fest. Compared to a “Young Bonnie Raitt” by Sleeping Bag Studios, Maddie brings her sunny Southern California style to Nashville, Tennessee with a classic country sound with a modern rock/pop influence. Her singles “Definitely Maybe” and “Boys Aren’t Like That Anymore” were featured on several Spotify playlists and her music has collectively attained over a 100K streams across platforms. On the verge of releasing her debut EP produced by Jeff Huskins (Little Texas,) Maddie Leigh is prepared to deliver country music with a brand that’s hers alone.

Lamitschka:  Music has many new fans throughout Europe who may be hearing about you for the first time. How would you describe yourself and the music you play to someone who has never seen or heard you?

Maddie Leigh: I would describe my music as a modern twist on traditional country. I love the traditional sound and instrumentation with the fiddle, steel guitars and banjo but I don’t think relationships and love really change even though society changes. Writing songs today is different in some ways but really similar in other ways because relationships and change are inevitable in every stage of life. I consider myself to be very honest in my songs and through my songwriting and I hope that anyone who listens to my music is able to see themselves in it and use it to help them through life.

Lamitschka:  How was the last year for you? What were your highlights?

Maddie Leigh: I have had a fantastic 2022! I am excited to be performing more and writing a TON! I have been performing a lot around Nashville and a few festivals. A couple weeks ago I performed at Fall for Greenville in South Carolina. I have so much fun watching hearing people sing and dance along with me.

Lamitschka:  Do you write the songs yourself? If not, how do you go about finding the songs for your CD?

Maddie Leigh: I do write songs. Early in my career, I didn’t consider myself a songwriter because I am definitely a perfectionist, and I wasn’t very confident. It took me awhile to share my songs publicly. When I finally did, it felt so good to know that people related to what I was writing and singing about. I love working with other songwriters and listening to different perspectives on experiences. Listening to a song you can relate to can make a good day better.

Lamitschka:  Your current single is being played by radio. What do you feel is special about this song that makes people want to hear it?

Maddie Leigh: Morning After is a fun song! I wrote it with my friend Elliot Prather. It’s just kind of about times we make decisions that don’t end up going as planned. It is meant to be funny and light hearted.

Lamitschka:  What will your next single be?

Maddie Leigh: My next single is called “My Own Little World”. I wrote it with my friends Karianne Jean and Will Duvall. I love this song because it reminds us of our own childhood. Growing up, we loved playing in our neighborhood until the street lights came on. Playing with friends, imagining we were saving the world, zooming around on our bikes and playing hide and seek. We all need a little reminder of the simpler times before life got complicated with adulting. Lol

Lamitschka:  What do you think about today’s music industry?

Maddie Leigh: I think anything is challenging when you are starting up. There is so much to learn and do but the best advice I was given is to keep going and never give up. Just like any entrepreneur, it can be difficult to be responsible for all the details and technicalities of running your own business. The day to day tasks like social media content, website updating, booking along with writing, recording, performing and networking aren’t always easy but I can’t see myself doing anything else but this. Singing is definitely my calling.

Lamitschka:  As an artist, you so many tasks such as recording, touring, interviews. What do you like best, what’s your favorite activity?

Maddie Leigh: It sounds cliche but I truly love it all. Sometimes it can be little overwhelming, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. What I love most is that every day is different. I could not sit behind a desk all day and work. I enjoy the opportunity to do something different each day. I think it is really important in a career where you are using your creativity regularly to have different outlets, so your creativity isn’t forced but inspired. Touring and performing give me so much joy to see how my songs impact the lives of others. Recording and songwriting allow me to expand my creativity and dig into vulnerability.

Lamitschka:  When you get time off, how do you like to relax?

Maddie Leigh: I love spending time with my family and friends. Connecting with people and nature really help me to relax. I have learned over the past few years of the importance of living in the moment. Just because life is where it is now, doesn’t mean it is where it will always be. I love boating and jet skiing, hiking, horseback riding, crafting, traveling, swimming and watching movies.

Lamitschka:  Is there any place you haven’t played that you would like to?

Maddie Leigh: Being a country music artist, it is my biggest dream to perform live at the Grand Ole Opry. Standing in that circle where so many legends stood and sang before me would be an absolute dream come true. I love traveling, too, and am looking forward to taking our show abroad where we can see the world while we do what we love to do!

Lamitschka:  What message would you like to send your European fans?

Maddie Leigh: Thank you for supporting me and my music. I cannot begin to express how grateful I am for their loyalty and love. I would love to know what inspires them lyrically and what encourages them daily.