Image: Michelle performing at the iHeart Radio Fan Fest
Michelle Treacy is a singer to watch – not just because she was invited by Lady Gaga to sing with her onstage at the Bell Centre in Montréal. Michelle has worked with Bebe Rexha, Nile Rodgers, Marie Mai, Big Machine Scott Borchetta. Her moving and emotive single, Armageddon, made it into Billboard’s “Hot 100”. Also, Michelle won the second season of The Launch – getting launched with “Emotional” produced by Nile Rodgers.
So, Michelle is the “real deal” – busy writing, recording, creating and sharing a distinctive sound. We asked her to take us behing the scenes and share lessons learned and sources of inspiration with her fellow singers at Singdaptive.
A quote that inspires you
In the end it’s going to be okay. If it’s not okay… it’s not the end.
Key turning points in developing your own unique vocal work?
Life has been very inspiring for me. I think it’s okay to always continue evolving as an artist. When I was younger I felt very “angsty” and now I feel full of colour and love and happiness…. As you grow… so does your sound and your vibe.
What’s an important lesson you’ve learned in terms of vocal health and/or technique?
I’ve learned it’s never too late to take singing lessons. Keeping your vocal cords and voice healthy is the most important thing a singer can do.
What performance would you single out as being a “turning point” & why?
When I sang with Lady Gaga on her ArtRave tour in Montreal. When I was up there looking out at the crowd of 14 thousand people I knew for sure that is where I am meant to be. I have been chasing that high ever since.
A vocal artist who inspires you?
Lady Gaga and Rufus Wainwright. Both of these artists are so powerful when they sing. They make their voices tell a story and that’s exactly what I hope to do with my artistry.
A lesson with tech that’s helped you make or share your music?
I’m currently learning how to record from home using recording software Logic. It’s been tricky but I’ve been told that as you continue, it gets easier which I can’t wait for! It will be amazing to be able to record from home and finish music that way.
What’s your relationship with social media?
I think social media is amazing. It’s a great way to connect with people from all over the world…. People you may never even meet offline BUT you can create such meaningful relationships online. I am really grateful for social media and really grateful for the people I’ve connected with who continue to follow my journey.
What are you currently working on in terms of your voice/music-career?
I am working on recording from home. I have a new song coming out, some new covers, I’m working on a podcast, I’m trying to come up with ideas to keep me busy during quarantine. There is so much work to be done and not nearly enough hours in a day!
What is one video of your music that was particularly easy (or hard!) to complete – and what made it so?
I had a blast shooting the video for Armageddon. We got to shoot in an abandoned church in Toronto …. It was my first time shooting with an entire crew…. I felt like the princess and the pea.
What is something you are enjoying or that you like about Singdaptive at the moment?
I think it’s an amazing way to learn so much. There are so many different lessons and so many teachers. I love how every teacher has their own unique way of teaching.
What was your first gig/performance and what did you learn?
My first performance ever was at Zaphods in Ottawa. I learned I didn’t know the first thing about performing! HA! Also, when a band member asks to wear shorts on stage say NO!!!!
What were one or two critical steps you took to reach larger audiences with your music?
I stopped caring about people’s opinions and I jumped. Once you start living your authentic self, people see it and start to believe what you’re saying.
What are some of your career dreams/goals?
I would love to sell out a world tour. I would love to write for other artists. I would love to collaborate with Finneas and I would love to get signed to a record label who believes in who I am and what I’m fighting for.
Michelle Treacy has just launched her new single – Emotional. You can listen to it here.
Michelle Treacy’s Website | Michelle on Instagram | Facebook | Twitter
Full of raw emotion and authenticity, Michelle Treacy first came to pop culture prominence with an impromptu duet with Lady Gaga during her ArtRave tour. Since then the talented young artist has gone on to win the second season of CTV’s hit series The Launch and record three radio hits, with one charting on the Billboard Top 100. With over 50K followers on Instagram, she has quickly become a name to watch out for. She’s had appearances in various forms of media from television shows, magazines, and online publications including Your Morning, The Marilyn Denis Show, The Social and the CBC.
