Exclusive Interview: Pop Culturalist Chats with Megan Steinke

Talented singer-songwriter Megan Steinke is a new voice in the music industry. Her career is filled with endless possibilities and uncertainty, but she’s enjoying every minute of it: so much so, she wrote an infectious single about it called “Everywhere You Go”, spreading a message of hope and faith. Pop Culturalist spoke with Megan about the new single, her upcoming album, and how she got started.

PC: When did you discover your passion for music?
Megan: I’ve always had a passion for music. I actually grew up taking classical piano lessons and listening to a lot of jazz classics. I didn’t start songwriting until my senior year of high school, which is also when I started playing around with my guitar. The thing that prompted it all was when my sister and I wanted to give a thoughtful Christmas gift to our mom. We made really rough recordings of us singing Christmas songs and I decided to try and write my own song. After writing that song, I just couldn’t stop writing! It was so much fun and came easily to me.

PC: Who or what would you say has had the biggest influence on your career?
Megan:My parents have been a huge influence for me. Growing up they would play jazz classics and Norah Jones around the house, and they put me through piano lessons, which gave me a foundation in music. I also grew up going to church, so I’ve always loved worship and singing in that environment. I want to spread a message of faith and hope because of that, but I also love using music as an outlet for a lot of other experiences.

PC: What is your creative process like when you’re working on a new song?
Megan: A lot of the inspiration comes from either another song that I love or from an event in my life. Sometimes, I’m in the car listening to another song and I think of another melody that goes with the song. Then later, maybe I’ll put some new chords to it and add lyrics. Other times, something significant will happen and I’ll just pour out lyrics, then add a melody and song structure later.

PC: Tell us about your new single, “Everywhere You Go”. What was the inspiration behind the track?
Megan: This song is about being thankful for where you are right now. I know that a lot of people, including myself, can get so caught up in trying to become successful that we forget how far we’ve come. We forget how much we have to be grateful for, even if we aren’t near our dreams or goals. In “Everywhere You Go”, I wanted to paint a picture of things that I cherish and really want to appreciate wherever I go.

PC: You’re dropping a new album in February. What can fans expect?
Megan: Fans can expect a quality, jazzy, and fresh album. The album is very much inspired by people like Corinne Bailey Rae and Lianne La Havas, and features a full band as well as many collaborations with my talented friends. I’m super blessed with the people I’ve gotten to work with.

PC: What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned being a part of this industry? What’s been the most surprising part?
Megan: I’ve learned that I can’t do everything myself, and that collaboration is the key to quality music. I can get away with doing a lot of the recording and producing for my music, but as for mixing/mastering, I know it’s worth an investment as an independent artist. I’ve also learned that making connections one-on-one with people that like my music is so rewarding and meaningful. I’ve been most surprised and grateful for people’s kindness and openness to my story.

PC: What does the year hold for you?
Megan: This year holds a lot of uncertainty for me, but for now I’m just excited about new music coming out. I’m graduating in June with a degree in Graphic Communication (I do a bit of graphic design), but I would love to focus on music some more after. I potentially see a lot more performances and adventures with the new album, so we’ll see what’s in store!

Pop Culturalist Speed Round

PC: Guilty pleasure TV show?
Megan: The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel

PC: Guilty pleasure movie?
Megan: National Treasure

PC: Favorite book?
Megan: Pride and Prejudice

PC: Favorite play or musical?
Megan: Legally Blonde

PC: A band or artist that fans would be surprised to learn is on your playlist?
Megan: Nicki Minaj

PC: First album you bought?
Megan: Andy Grammer

PC: First concert you attended?
Megan: Ke$ha and Pitbull

PC: Someone you’d like to collaborate with?
Megan: Lianne La Havas

PC: Last show you binge-watched?
Megan: Friends

PC: Hidden talent?
Megan: I can make the sound of a loon bird call.

Make sure to follow Megan on Twitter and Instagram, and pick up “Everywhere You Go” on iTunes.