'No More Hiding' is the debut single from Melbourne singer-songwriter Meredith Louise. Showcasing the expressive vulnerability of Meredith’s songwriting, 'No More Hiding' features a deep groove, rich double bass line, and Meredith's strong and soulful vocals. Telling a personal story of finally allowing herself to emerge from the shadows, the track has lush keys that are amplified by shimmering synths and solid backing vocals punctuating throughout, harnessing the sound of 90s neo soul. 'No More Hiding' is about getting out of your own way and stepping into your power. Touching on themes of self-doubt, anxiety and imposter syndrome, the introspective verses build to a powerful chorus that sees Meredith more self-assured, confident and ready for what awaits.
By Kamil Bobin
Discovered via Musosoup
What strengths do you have that you believe make you a great musician?
As an artist it can be so much easier to jump to the negative things about myself – but that’s the self-saboteur talking! I think every musician has strengths that support their music, and in different ways. For me I try to communicate openly and honestly about how I feel, the state of the world, and what I’m going through, and feel this a strength I bring to my music. Music is about connection and I try to connect with my audience through my art.
Who inspired you to make music?
Certainly my family played a big part. I grew up exposed to the records of Simon and Garfunkel, Fleetwood Mac, Joni Mitchell, Carole King, Elton John, Cat Stevens – all incredible songwriters and musicians. This was interspersed with a lot of jazz, classical and world music. Hearing this music regularly was a big inspiration for me and led to me studying a jazz degree over a decade ago and then discovering neo soul, hip hop and R&B have their roots in jazz. It's been a deep journey of music consumption for me.
Other musicians inspire me to make music – people speaking their truth through art gives strength for my music to emerge.
Your latest track is 'No More Hiding'. Can you share with us the background of its creation and did any unusual things happen during its creation?
'No More Hiding' was written in the middle of a Melbourne covid lockdown in 2021 – a time of deep introspection and self-questioning. For a long time I have held myself back with so many things and anxiety got in the way. I wrote this song as a way to remember that the answers to all that I seek are already inside me and to learn to listen to the wisdom within. It’s also a song for any person who has felt powerless against the world and a reminder that all of us have power if we just let ourselves step into it.
I was also listening to a lot of 90s neo-soul at the time - Janet Jackson, Erykah Badu, Jill Scott, D'Angelo, India.Arie etc, that definitely influenced my sound and groove.
What is your creative process like?
Often I have a melody idea come to my head or it’ll be a lyric – I get the best melody ideas in the shower or when I take a walk! My phone is filled with a bunch of voice memos with different ideas for lyrics or melodies. Sometimes I’ll sit at my piano and they’ll emerge into a full song. Other times I’ll have lyrics written and then play around with a melody that works. It really all depends on what the message of the song is and how it wants to emerge (I am just a conduit for the song!) When I’ve been reading a lot I’m often inspired by the words I’m reading and have created a list on my phone full of words and sentences that I find inspiring.
What is the biggest decision you’ve had to make?
To start releasing music! It may sound small and trivial, but it took the pandemic for me to realise that I need to start getting my music out there. A reminder that life is short and to do what you love – no matter how it’s received. It’s about the process and connection with others through my art.
What makes you different from others?
Tough question! Probably that I write a lot of songs that are about concepts and ideas, rather than love songs or songs about relationships. I really try and use music as a vehicle to talk about deeper issues or things I care about, or about mental health. Songs with words that make you think. Maybe also that my music crosses different genres – it’s hard to pin down!
What is one message you would give to your fans?
That I am forever grateful for you for listening to my music and coming to my shows. Not just for me, but for all of us emerging artists. Knowing that you connect with my music and the messages I am singing about gives me so much joy, hope and gratitude. Thank you x
How do you feel the Internet has impacted the music business?
I feel like it’s been mostly positive. Releasing music is now very much in the hands of the independent artist, whereas before it was only a certain handful of musicians who had record deals that were able to release music. It’s meant that whilst independent DIY musicians mostly have to be their own manager, booker, publicist, social media marketer etc, that they are able to get their music out quicker.
The downsides are in the world of algorithms, it can be difficult to make a mark. The way people consume music is different too, so good production and knowing who you are as an artist are important to be able to cut through.
It also means that it’s difficult for people to live as an artist and we often have to work multiple jobs just to afford to get our music out there. It’s very rare for people to make it solely as a musician.
What is the first thing you think of when you wake up?
Coffee. Haha no, I actually think “can I go back to sleep?” I am definitely not a morning person, although trying harder to convince myself I am.
What are your plans for the future?
I’m playing a single launch show for No More Hiding on 15th June at a venue called The Gasometer here in Melbourne. I’ve also got plans to continue recording with my producer and have an EP in the works. Also to keep writing and performing regularly. I am actually relocating to Vancouver, Canada in August so keen to connect with musicians in the Canadian music scene.