Exclusive Interview: Pop Culturalist Chats with Stephanie McCourt

Stephanie McCourt’s career has faced its fair share of trials and tribulations. But through it all, she’s remained true to herself and pushed forward. This April, she spreads her wings with her new EP, which features the high energy single “Save Me.” Pop Culturalist caught up with Stephanie to chat about the track and her new EP Wings.

PC: How did you discover your passion for music?
Stephanie: I started singing from the age of two or so my mum tells me! Music was a massive part of my childhood. There was always something playing in the background, and I couldn’t help but sing along to it! It felt good to express myself through music. Being a hyperactive child, I think my parents were just happy that I found something to channel my energy.

PC: Who or what has had the biggest influence on your career?
Stephanie: That’s a really tough question as I have had so many influences over the years. I can’t really pinpoint one. I guess I would have to start with my dad, who is a massive Elvis Presley fan! He would always show me live performances, songs, and tell me all stories about the King of Rock ’N’ Roll. Eventually, I acquired my own taste and got heavily into ’90s divas like Whitney Houston, Celine Dion, and Mariah Carey. I fell in love with their larger than life voices and started to dream that one day I could be like them. Christina Aguilera dominated my teen years with her epic voice and empowering songs, through her I discovered legendary artists like Etta James, Aretha Franklin, and I found myself exploring the genre of soul, I haven’t looked back.

PC: You have a new single out. Tell us about “Save Me” and the inspiration behind the track.
Stephanie: “Save Me” is about the dark experience I had as a contestant on the X-Factor. It tells a story about the aftermath and the recovery process I went through. Writing it was very therapeutic. I really hope people can relate to the message in the song.

PC: It’s the first single off your new EP. How did you decide on that song?
Stephanie: I thought it would be a good introduction to me and my style of music. It’s upbeat, catchy, and has a strong message to empower my listeners.

PC: If you had to choose one song off Wings that best encompasses you as an artist, what would it be and why?
Stephanie: I would choose the song “Wings.” I have had many challenges in my career over the years, but I always manage to get back up and keep pushing because music is my passion. This song speaks of my resurgence. In life, you have to fight for what love!

PC: As we look ahead to the rest of 2020, what does the year hold for you?
Stephanie: As long as social distancing continues, you will find me online on all the music platforms. The moment it’s over, I will be out performing in as many places as possible, so keep an eye out on my social media platforms.

Pop Culturalist Speed Round

PC: A band or artist that fans would be surprised to learn is on your playlist?
Stephanie: Skunk Anansie

PC: First album you bought?
Stephanie: Janis Joplin’s Greatest Hits

PC: First concert you attended?
Stephanie: Beyonce’s Dangerously in Love tour in 2003. She was incredible!

PC: An album that changed your life and why?
Stephanie: Christina Aguilera’s Stripped because it was very relatable to what I was going through as a teenager. It gave me the confidence to pursue a career in music.

PC: A venue on your bucket list to perform at?
Stephanie: O2 Arena

PC: A must-have on the road?
Stephanie: My phone! I need to stay connected with my family. We’re very close.

To keep up with Stephanie, follow her on Twitter and Instagram. Pick up or stream Wings today.