MEGAN WHEELER TALKS NOW THAT I'M GONE

Behind the Coastline

You are reading an independently published interview-series published and carefully curated by Swedish pop-culture journalist Daniel John. Ever since its start in 2015, the core curiosity remains the same, surfing the creative currents of music, film, fashion and everything else on the pop-radar, catching the waves of culture as creative

Culture Coast TalksDaniel John

Sparkly, confidence-filled 'Now That I’m Gone' is an empowering pop anthem. With so much self-love at its center, what do you hope this song will be for others?

I hope the song will be an anthem for self-love, confidence, and anyone who needs a reminder of their own strength. I want people to feel empowered when they listen to this song as they embrace a new version of themselves.

While sassy in its spirit of moving forward. One might wonder. Did it come out of a tough breakup?

Sort of. The message of this song was inspired by one of my favorite artists but also came from learning how to be okay on your own. I could always use the reminder of the strength I have within myself during a tough time.

You recorded your debut–single, 'Replaced', when you were sixteen. How early on were you already writing songs?

I started writing my own music pieces when I was just five. Over time it started evolving into songwriting, I think I was around fifteen years old when my writing developed into songs, and since then, I knew it was something I wanted to pursue.

Which artists would you say have given you strength, and inspired your love of pop?

Artists who have inspired my love for pop music are Taylor Swift, Sabrina Carpenter, Olivia Rodrigo, and Ariana Grande. They are all so talented in their own ways, and it is inspiring to see how they got to where they are today.

This release was co-written and produced by Channing Nuon. Is he someone you would say you feel aligned with, sharing a like-minded passion, and knowledge, around the music you want to make?

Definitely. We both share the same passion and listen to each other, without stepping on each other’s toes. It’s refreshing to be around someone who knows music and is passionate about it as much as I am.

How did you get to work with one another?

I met him through one of my professors at school when I was looking for someone to collaborate with. I’m glad we’ve had the chance to work together.

You're from Florida but are also a European citizen as your mom is Irish. Have you gotten to perform anything with your pop on this side of the world?

I haven’t had the chance to perform yet but it’s a dream of mine to be able to play in Ireland one day. I love my Irish roots and I’m excited for the chance to go there in this setting to perform my music.

Is there anything else new you’re working on that you cannot wait to share with everyone?

Yes, I actually have a song I'm planning to release soon. Hopefully within the next month, or two. I am also working on some more songs that I can not wait to share with the world and I hope everyone will love them as much as I do.