In the midst of a year defined by political and social unrest — not to mention an unprecedented global pandemic — a new chapter is what we all need. For Canadian singer-songwriter Michelle Treacy, the release of her new single “Time Off From A Letdown” is just that — the start of something new, and something “unapologetically Michelle.”
Three years after releasing her breakout track “Armageddon,” Michelle won an episode of CTV’s music competition show The Launch and was officially “launched” into the spotlight with an angsty new single, “Emotional.” Fast forward a year, Michelle is stripping her sound down to the basics, embracing a more somber and reflective folk-pop tone that’s perfect for the times.
To celebrate her first independent release, I caught up with Michelle to chat about “Time Off From A Letdown,” using your platform and performing with Lady Gaga (yes, you read that right!).
What does “Time Off From A Letdown” represent for you?
Thematically, the song represents the feeling of letting everyone down — the reality being that you are only letting yourself down by putting others first. It is about refocusing on yourself, as I have spent the last couple of years doing just that after going through a dark time in my life. The cinematic video is a beautiful representation of this created by an all-female team. It is a piece of art in its purest form, and I hope people take something from it.
You’ve been vocal throughout the pandemic about mask education (masks are definitely sexy!) and #BlackLivesMatter. Why is it important for you to use your platform to shine a light on global issues?
I am really grateful to have a platform where people see my stuff and listen. If you have a platform and you’re not using it to educate people on current issues — why bother having a platform? I am pro mask and #BlackLivesMatter. If you are not, you are on the wrong side of history. It’s time to get educated.
The pandemic has presented a bit of a creative block for many artists. Which singers have inspired you the most this year and why?
Finneas has inspired me a lot. He has taught me that you don’t need anything to make a good song and record. He taught me that recording from home is cool. I mean, look at all his work… all done from his bedroom. So, that’s what I’m doing now. All my music is recorded in my closet.
Can you share the story behind that moment with Lady Gaga where you got to perform with her on stage in Montreal? Also, I have to ask: What’s your favourite song off Chromatica?
Long story short, I got really lucky when it came to singing with Gaga in 2014. I had met her a bunch of times prior and asked her. She said yes and the rest is history. My favourite song off Chromatica is “Sine From Above.”
What’s next for you? Are you working towards another EP or perhaps an album?!
I’m working on a bunch of new music. No release date yet but it will be worth the wait I promise. We are gonna do this right this time!
Thank you, Michelle! “Time Off From A Letdown” is available now on your favourite streaming and purchasing platforms.
Know an inspiring or up-and-coming individual I should Take 5 with? Let me know in the comments below — or tweet me @angelamcleanx!
Happy listening xx
Header photo by Zoe Aikko
