"It’s all about capturing the duality of being human. We feel deeply, but we also move through life in search of joy and connection."
I think what stands out the most is the contrast between where I started and where I am now. I began making music in my bedroom, driven purely by the need to express myself. Over time, that process evolved, but the heart of it remains the same. Music has always been a way for me to make sense of the world and my place in it.
Q. Your breakout moment with “Alaska” was extraordinary. How did that experience shape your career and your perspective on music?
It was surreal. When Pharrell Williams reacted to the song during that masterclass, I felt both incredibly seen and overwhelmed. That moment opened so many doors but also came with a lot of introspection. I had to learn how to balance public expectations with my own artistic integrity. It pushed me to be more intentional about my work and stay true to my voice.
Q. Your music often blends introspective lyrics with infectious rhythms. How do you strike that balance?
It’s all about capturing the duality of being human. We’re complex beings—we feel deeply, but we also move through life in search of joy and connection. My process usually starts with a feeling or idea I want to explore, and then I think about how that emotion translates sonically. Sometimes, a beat can say just as much as a lyric.
Q. Speaking of emotions, your album ‘Heard It in a Past Life’ resonated with so many people. What inspired the themes in that record?
That album was a snapshot of my life during a time of immense change. It’s about coming of age, navigating newfound fame, and the push and pull of personal growth. Each song captures a moment or a lesson I was learning at the time. I wanted it to feel like an honest conversation.
Q. Let’s talk about your latest project. How does it differ from your previous work?
With my new work, I’ve learned even more about experimentation. I’ve been exploring different production techniques, collaborating with new voices, and pushing myself out of my comfort zone. It’s still very much me, but it’s an evolution. I’m excited for people to hear it because it feels raw and unapologetically present.
Q. You’re also known for your environmental activism. How does that passion intersect with your music?
Nature has always been a big part of my life and my creative process. Growing up on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, I spent a lot of time outside, and that connection to the earth shaped my perspective. I’m conscious of how my platform can amplify environmental issues. I’ve tried to integrate sustainable practices into my tours and raise awareness through my work.
Q. Beyond music, you’ve explored other artistic ventures like filmmaking. How does working in different mediums influence your creativity?
It’s incredibly refreshing. Every medium offers a unique way to tell a story, and stepping into new territories helps me see things from different perspectives. Filmmaking, for instance, taught me a lot about visual storytelling and pacing, which I’ve started to incorporate into my music videos and live performances. It’s all interconnected.
Q. You’ve described music as a deeply personal journey. How do you protect that intimacy in an industry that can sometimes feel overwhelming?
It’s a constant balancing act. I’ve learned to set boundaries and prioritize self-care. Journaling helps me process my thoughts, and I’ve also found solace in meditation and spending time with close friends. Surrounding myself with people who genuinely care about me keeps me grounded. Taking breaks and disconnecting when needed has also been crucial. It’s about pacing myself and staying connected to the joy of creation.
Q. Your live performances are known for their energy and authenticity. How do you prepare for a tour, and what do you hope the audience takes away from your shows?
Preparing for a tour is a mix of physical, mental, and emotional preparation. I work closely with my team to make sure the show feels cohesive and tells a story. Physically, I stay active and take care of my voice. Mentally, I focus on being present and connecting with the audience. My hope is that people leave my shows feeling seen and uplifted, with a sense of community and connection.
Q. What advice would you give to emerging artists navigating their own journeys?
Stay curious and stay true to yourself. It’s easy to get caught up in what’s trending or what others expect of you, but your unique perspective is your greatest asset. Also, don’t be afraid to take risks and make mistakes. That’s where growth happens. And remember, it’s a marathon, not a sprint. Celebrate the small victories along the way!
Nature has always been a big part of my life and my creative process. Growing up on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, I spent a lot of time outside, and that connection to the earth shaped my perspective. I’m conscious of how my platform can amplify environmental issues. I’ve tried to integrate sustainable practices into my tours and raise awareness through my work.
Q. Beyond music, you’ve explored other artistic ventures like filmmaking. How does working in different mediums influence your creativity?
It’s incredibly refreshing. Every medium offers a unique way to tell a story, and stepping into new territories helps me see things from different perspectives. Filmmaking, for instance, taught me a lot about visual storytelling and pacing, which I’ve started to incorporate into my music videos and live performances. It’s all interconnected.
Q. You’ve described music as a deeply personal journey. How do you protect that intimacy in an industry that can sometimes feel overwhelming?
It’s a constant balancing act. I’ve learned to set boundaries and prioritize self-care. Journaling helps me process my thoughts, and I’ve also found solace in meditation and spending time with close friends. Surrounding myself with people who genuinely care about me keeps me grounded. Taking breaks and disconnecting when needed has also been crucial. It’s about pacing myself and staying connected to the joy of creation.
Q. Your live performances are known for their energy and authenticity. How do you prepare for a tour, and what do you hope the audience takes away from your shows?
Preparing for a tour is a mix of physical, mental, and emotional preparation. I work closely with my team to make sure the show feels cohesive and tells a story. Physically, I stay active and take care of my voice. Mentally, I focus on being present and connecting with the audience. My hope is that people leave my shows feeling seen and uplifted, with a sense of community and connection.
Q. What advice would you give to emerging artists navigating their own journeys?
Stay curious and stay true to yourself. It’s easy to get caught up in what’s trending or what others expect of you, but your unique perspective is your greatest asset. Also, don’t be afraid to take risks and make mistakes. That’s where growth happens. And remember, it’s a marathon, not a sprint. Celebrate the small victories along the way!
BIO :
Maggie Rogers is an acclaimed American singer-songwriter and producer, celebrated for her genre-blending sound that fuses folk, pop, and electronic influences. Raised on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, she gained global recognition with her breakout hit “Alaska,” famously praised by Pharrell Williams. A graduate of NYU’s Clive Davis Institute, Rogers is known for introspective lyrics, infectious rhythms, and environmental activism. Her albums, including 'Heard It in a Past Life', showcase her evolution as an artist, blending personal storytelling with experimental production.
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