Music Q&A with Ali Coyle
Photo courtesy of Ali Coyle
Earlier this year, Irish American indie pop/rock artist, Ali Coyle released Songs For My Therapist, her debut six-track EP! Themes found in the songs are love, heartbreak, nature, and growth. Ali recently took some time to talk about her EP, her earliest musical memory, her favorite band to see live, and more! Songs For My Therapist is out now!
Congratulations on the release of your EP, Songs For My Therapist! What does it mean to you?
Thank you! This is my debut EP, so it will always be incredibly special to me. It represents a whole lot of soul searching and my fight to believe in myself and finally bring the music to life. I think it is an honest introduction to who I am as a person and a musician.
There are different themes on the EP. What would you say is your favorite song from it?
I think the most important theme of this EP is self acceptance and healing. I wanted this EP to be vulnerable but also show the strength I found in myself during the process of writing these songs. A song that really represents turning that corner to me is “Clear Water”, which was written immediately after a dream I had. It was very vivid and involved a house slowly filling up with water. I tried my best to create a soundscape that represented what I was feeling as well and lyrically get to a place of honesty. It is that honesty that lead me to begin to heal.
What is your earliest musical memory?
When I was a kid, I was enamored with the movie, Fantasia. I would stand in front of the TV and watch it from start to finish…over and over. I have vague memories of being mesmerized by the sounds and stories in the animation, so who knows.. maybe that is where it all began! Violin ended up being the first instrument that I tried to play, and I had a natural ear for it. I knew from a young age that music enriched my life.
What artist/band are you a fan of that would surprise people?
One of my all time favorite bands is Ratatat. I love a lot of electronic skewing music with cool riffy hooks.
Who is your favorite band to see live?
I think that U2 has an undeniable presence when they perform. They truly believe in their message and it radiates through their arena captivating energy. I really admire the grounding nature of their music that allows people to feel like they are a part of the bigger picture.
If you had a chance to collaborate with a musician, dead or alive, who would it be?
If I ever got a chance to play music with Carol Kaye, I’d melt.
What helps you stay positive?
I think reminding myself that the lower moments are temporary helps me hold out for brighter ones. When a moment of joy comes my way, I try to remind myself to stop and experience it in real time. That doesn’t always come naturally.
I have also learned to give myself the same grace that I would to someone I love and care for! Again, it doesn't always come naturally…Nobody is perfect! It’s ok.
Any last words or final message for the readers?
Thank you for taking the time to read and listen to my music. Can’t wait to share more and grow as an artist. Wishing you health, happiness, and friendship!