Meels Shares her Inner World with Us

Monica Soriano
5 days ago
2 min read

Article Contributed by Monica Soriano

From her deep lyricism, her vintage style, and her appreciation for nature, Meels is a national treasure herself.

Recently, we had the opportunity to hear Meels talk about her upbringing, inspirations and new sound. She spoke with such genuine care for her craft that it became clear why she’s continuously growing as an artist. She has built this wonderful folk-country world, as she invites us into it, we can see just how much meaning there is behind her music.

Meels and her California Upbringing

Although Meels spent years studying in New York, she attributes the source of her creativity to be from her California roots.

While hearing Meels speak on her experience growing up surrounded by animals and how it shaped her music and creativity, many questions came to mind about how her career in music began. Luckily, she was more than open to talking about her journey. She told us that her grandmother was a concert pianist for the South African Symphony, and Meels herself started piano lessons at age 5. From then, she began songwriting at age 13/14. She spoke about her closeness with her grandmother and how her favorite song (“Marsha June”) from her upcoming project is about her.

Making Music Digestible for All

Meels spoke to us about why her often dark or realistic lyricism is accompanied by a contrasting upbeat sound.

“The Wizard,” a track from her upcoming project, illustrates her experience with OCD. Although the tune is upbeat and catchy, when stripped down, what is left is a genuine experience with a disorder. When asked about her lyricism and her process, she said it’s about “letting the words flow through me”. She also explained that it is about trusting herself, and in order to make the subject matter she talks about digestible for most, she allows her songs to take an upbeat sound.

Her Inspirations in Music & More

Who and what inspires her?

Meels let us know that her musical inspirations are Johnny Cash, John Prine, Paul McCartney, and Dolly Parton, among other legends. When talking about her inspirations for the visuals and videos for this upcoming project, she let us know that her boyfriend, Henry, was the creative director. He then was able to share a few words with us about the creative process for “Willow Song”. They drew inspiration from 70’s tv shows, the muppets and old cameras, which allowed them to create something currently unique to Meels.

Looking Forward to More Meels in 2026

The talented singer-songwriter has big plans for 2026 and beyond.

This is the year of Meels. Her name is already making waves in the folk-country world, and with her new EP Across The Raccoon Strait, releasing January 30, 2026, she is sure to start the year strong. Meels will also be touring this year; specific dates can be found at meelsmusic.com. In 2026, one of her dreams is to meet Paul McCartney; we’re rooting for her!