MEGAN BLACK TEASES BIGGER THINGS WITH NEW FOUR TRACK EP
INTERVIEW | MEGAN UNVEILS HER MOST PERSONAL WORK YET
If you’re not yet familiar with Megan Black’s work then her brand new four track EP Full Circle (Part 1) is the place to start. Taking inspiration from late 60’s/early 70’s classic rock such as Janis Joplin, The Doors and Jimi Hendrix, Megan’s music is heavily reminiscent of Stevie Nicks and her Fleetwood Mac days. Reflecting deeply on her own personal experiences, Full Circle explores the depths of feminism, sexuality and even nature.
MOTHER, SISTER, LOVER
“We’re taught from a very young age that women should compete with one another. I wanted to use this song to spread the message that we don’t need to fight against each other.”
Megan on Mother, Sister, Lover
Opening Full Circle is Megan’s critically acclaimed MOTHER, SISTER, LOVER which was released as a single in the summer. Characterised by the anthemic chorus of the title, the song reflects on the continuous battle women place on themselves to compete against each other.
‘I’ve been in love with women and still compare myself to them. I feel women are always taught that there is just that one opportunity, one spot for them and they have to fight for that. Like even in chick flicks – the other woman in the work place. There’s always narratives that women are competing against each other and we are which is sad because we’ve been conditioned to do so from a very young age.
Megan Black
The passion and the energy fed into this track is electric and really stands for what Megan’s music is about.
JUST FOR FUN
Another well known track to fan’s, Just For Fun was released almost a whole year ago. Following freshly from Megan’s first full album Deadly is the Woman, Just For Fun reflects on self destructive tendencies we often find ourselves wrapped up in. The guitar riffs become the fore front of this track. Oozing with feel good bluesy goodness, Just For Fun is a superb example of classic rock in a modern setting.
FUCK YOU (YOU STOLE MY YOUTH)
Undoubtedly the fiercest track from Megan yet is the infectious attitude fuelled Fuck You. Probably the most personal song yet, Fuck You is a high five to the me too movement led by Tarana Burke. Rather than focusing on the vulnerability of it all, Megan channels her deep frustrations into the ultimate fuck you towards abusers.
I wanted to speak up about my experiences but I wanted it to be empowering and hopefully give other people the permission to too…I’m very thankful that this movement exists and it’s given me a space to talk about this kind of stuff. But equally, I feel I am now at the stage where I feel privileged enough to do so through my music. It’s not Me Too anymore it’s Fuck You.
Megan Black
Filled with 70’s inspired guitar licks and funky bass riffs, Megan even turns her hand to rapping which is a fresh delight. As with much of Megan’s work, there is a naturally hefty dose of feminism and general activism attached. By channeling her own experiences in her music, Megan manages to turn the pain into passion which is quite frankly anthemic.
When I was growing up I was taught to say no to food before I would be told to do with somebody invading my space. We’re taught to have boundaries with calories before we are taught to have boundaries with people. For me when I write, I feel it’s to help younger Megan. I feel like this is the next level to setting my boundaries and saying Fuck you and really calling someone out on their shitty behaviour.
Megan Black
ME VS MOTHER NATURE
Turning her attention away from themes of feminism and LGBTQ+ matters, the EP wraps up on another pressing protest – climate change. The closest to a ballad that Full Circle – Part 1 offers, Me Vs Mother Nature expresses a different sort of love than the usual romance.
“It’s about bringing people together over something so daunting. We all share this experience.”
Lyrically, this is one of Megan’s finest efforts. Building in momentum until the end, Me Vs Mother Nature personalises the earths natural beauty. Projecting qualities we would normally associate with somebody we admire captures that pressing importance with passion. Observing the beauty and it’s continuing longevity, Megan reflects her own anxieties related to climate change and channels that into a beautifully moving piece of music.
FULL CIRCLE
In comparison to last years debut album Deadly is the Woman, Megan demonstrates the continuing depths of her talent. The album from start to finish is an exceptional piece of work and has been acclaimed as such including winning an album of the year award (The Weekender Magazine). This fresh EP thrives off that successful momentum. Full Circle brings all the same energy and bluesy rock vibes but in a more vulnerable light. It feels like a concept piece which the tracks all carrying a similar protest tone. Part 1 of course suggests there is more to come and after chatting with Megan it is evident this is part of a wider project that will all become clear soon. Way more than her ‘hippy dippy drag queen’ label, Megan Black is an established emerging artist who creates not only catchy alternative music but offers an ongoing safe inclusive space for others. A tremendous effort.
Megan will next headline Queenz Sounds Festival 2023 at Glasgow’s Slay on October 21st with more dates to be announced soon.
ALL PHOTO CREDIT Charli Morachnick
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