Q: Hi there! I’m loving the relatable, not to mention extremely catchy, vibe that “Flashbacks” gives off! What was your favorite part in making this song?
LORELEI MARCELL: Hi! Thank you so much. My favorite part was probably the fact that the day Graham and I wrote flashbacks, was also the day we met. When I described the concept I was going for, he instantly knew how to help and be a support system. It definitely helped that we were both going through similar life events at the time too. He was the perfect conduit for this song.
Q: Both of your vocals are so dream-like and really blend together flawlessly. Can you walk me through the writing process in creating a duet?
LORELEI: Honestly we didn’t know this song was going to end up being a duet when we wrote it! I am so glad we did because It helps convey the perspective and bittersweetness in the lyrics as someone who is longing for someone they love. Getting to be in the studio and work with Graham in a different light and cut vocals at the same time was a blast. It definitely makes me want to do more duets in the future.
Q: From the lyrics and title itself, “Flashbacks” is about flashbacks of an ex, or someone from the past of some sort I’m assuming. Did any real-life events occur in your life that inspired this song?
LORELEI: Technically, yes. The day before flashbacks was born I attended a concert alone. I was new to Los Angeles, and wanted to make more of an effort to do things alone and be more independent. The moment I got to the venue though, I felt a pit of anxiety in my stomach and had never felt more alone. Seeing every one there with friends and/or parters reminded me that I didn’t have that yet In this new chapter of my life. All I could think about was my past and everything and every one I missed. I think in a lot of ways Flashbacks has developed into a song for anyone who has ever felt alone in a crowded room. Literally or Hypothetically.
Q: If you were stranded on a deserted island and could only listen to three albums, which would they be?
LORELEI: Case Study 1 – Daniel Caesar; Apart – Leon; To Let A Good Thing Die – Bruno Major
Q: I read that you grew up in a suburb in Boston, & I’m curious about what the music scene was like out there. Do you have any advice for other up-and-coming artists out in Boston trying to get their music out there?
LORELEI: I did! I did more local gigs growing up around my town, but it Is definitely a nice time. Open mics around the city are actually a really good opportunity to establish yourself in the city and meet new people. I did so many of them growing up so my best advice would just be to get out there. Playing around Berkeley college of music is also a really great way to meet other artists.
Q: I’m always curious in an artist’s musical journey. Do you remember who or what first got you into music? Was your family musical growing up?
LORELEI: I wish! No one in my family does music, but they definitely have a strong appreciation for it. My dad was really into showing me all the old school bands growing up and my mom shared with me blues and jazz singers as we would make dinner when I was young. Little things like that. They never pushed anything on me, it has always just been a passion that they fully supported when I made the decision to pursue full time.
Q: Thanks for speaking with me! Tell fans what to expect from you both in 2023!
LORELEI: Thank you so much! I appreciate it. I am putting out an album this upcoming April. It will feature Flashbacks along with 12 other songs! I am also playing a few shows in Los Angeles that will all be listed on my website. Loreleimarcell.com !
Interviewed by Melissa Cusano
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