Mieke is singer songwriter from Toronto, Canada.
In the same vein as fellow Canadian Feist, this self motivated indie pop songstress is making a name for herself as an empowered artist. Her soft yet powerful vocal harmonies pair well with downtempo indie rock. And it’s clear that Mieke cares about the process behind her music, just as much as the final product itself.
Her latest track, “Move On,” (video below) is about the courage to move forward on your own terms when you’ve hit a fork in the road. When it comes time to stand up and make change, that takes strength and commitment.
I wrote this song about the moment when you’re finally ready to move forward- to break free of a pattern that isn’t giving you strength. To let go of things you know aren’t meant for you. Because sometimes when we finally face our monsters, they’re less scary than we thought. – Mieke
The video is clear indication of a Mieke’s raw ability to tell a story.
We also asked Mieke a few questions about her music, influences and future plans which you can find below.
Casablanca Sunset: How long have you been writing songs?
Mieke: Weirdly, I think I always did. We have videos of me as a kid and I am singing gibberish songs about my toys. It just took me a while to realize it could be something I do with my life. I started performing my own songs when I was 14 or so.
CS: How would you describe your music to someone that has never heard you play before?
M: I usually just give them the songs. What I do isn’t obscure at all, but I always prefer that. If I have to explain I’d say I’m from a folk background but make soulful alternative pop songs. That I like lyrics to be insightful and intelligent and for my music to feel honest.
CS: What are some of your music influences? Any new bands or artists you’ve been in to lately?
M: I grew up singing religious German choral music and was mostly exposed to religious music until later in life. Classical music influenced me a lot too, because that’s what I started playing. Now I like Cat Power, Lykke Li, Antony and the Johnsons, Tinashe, Cass McCombs, Joni Mitchell, Emile Haynie, Father John Misty, Bob Dylan, Sufjan, Tracey Chapman, Frank Ocean.
CS: Your new music video turned out really well. What is the inspiration behind the video?
M: Thank you! Adrian Vieni led that video.. We wanted it to reflect modern relationships; the loss and confusion and heartache when you are in a city and feeling that so vividly. For me that song was really about finding yourself and trusting your intuition. I think both ideas came across and I love dance so it was cool to see my friends interpret the song through their movements.
CS: Any plans to work with a label or management group into the future? Or stay independent?
M: My overall priority is to keep making better music, so that will be my focus and guide my decisions. Even now as an independent I’m part of a team and a community of artists and supporters – so I’m not alone. I would love someday if I could focus purely on making music/performing and let someone else take over the business. But for now I am happy with how things are growing 🙂