Interview: Molly McKeon
Photography: thewaysofwoodfolk.com
Molly McKeon is a New England singer-songwriter from Clinton, Massachusetts, whose music brings together folk, Americana and bluegrass. Raised in a musical family, she began playing fiddle at seven and taught herself guitar as a teenager. In this interview, she discusses “Off to Work I Go,” recording in Nashville, and the stories and connections that shape her music.
What inspires your music?
Molly draws inspiration from traditional Appalachian music, folk storytelling, and the lives of ordinary people. Her songwriting explores love, loss, hard choices, faith, and redemption, pairing timeless roots influences with a gritty, contemporary Americana sound.
Who are some of your influences?
My musical influences include Tyler Childers, Gordon Lightfoot, Colter Wall, and Sarah Jarosz, along with traditional Appalachian folk, old-time bluegrass, and early American roots music. I'm especially drawn to honest storytelling, raw vocals, and the timeless sound of traditional folk and country.
Photography: thewaysofwoodfolk.com
What are some of your favorite memories from your career?
Some of my favorite memories come from connecting with people at my shows and hearing how they relate to my music. It’s incredibly rewarding to hear the personal stories behind what a song means to someone and to know that my music has resonated with them.
Another highlight was traveling to Nashville to record my original songs in a professional studio. Getting to hear my music come to life with such talented musicians and producers was an unforgettable experience and a major milestone for me as a songwriter.
Which of your songs/EPs/albums is your favorite and why?
My favorite song I’ve written is “Wade in the Water.” It came together very naturally, almost as if it wrote itself, and I finished it in one sitting. It’s partially autobiographical, with elements of fiction woven into a story about redemption through faith. I’m especially proud of the songwriting and the story the song tells. It’s not released just yet, but I plan to share it very soon!
Who are some of the collaborators who helped you create your favorite works?
Recording my original songs at Beaird Music Group in Nashville was an amazing experience from start to finish. I had the opportunity to work with sound engineer and producer Rob Lane, who provided great direction and made me feel comfortable in the studio while still giving me the freedom to guide the creative direction of each song. It was a really rewarding experience, and I can’t wait to work with him again in the future!
What are you most excited to bring to your fans next?
I’m most excited to share my next two singles and continue introducing people to my original music. Each song has its own story and sound, and I can’t wait for people to hear what I’ve been working on. I’m looking forward to releasing more music, continuing to grow as a songwriter, and giving listeners a chance to connect with the stories behind my songs.
What are your goals for this upcoming year?
This upcoming year, my biggest goals are to continue releasing original music, grow my audience, and get my songs in front of more people. I’d love to play more festivals, listening rooms, and established folk and Americana venues throughout New England and beyond. I also want to keep developing as a songwriter, collaborate with other musicians, and build meaningful connections within the music community.
How can your fans and our readers best support you right now?
The best way to support me right now is to follow along on social media, stream my debut single, “Off to Work I Go,” and share it with friends and family. Every listen, follow, share, and kind word helps me reach new audiences and grow as an independent artist. I’m incredibly grateful for everyone who takes the time to support my music!
Listen to “Off to Work I Go” by Molly McKeon
Follow Molly McKeon
Official website · Spotify · Apple Music · YouTube · Instagram
Photography: thewaysofwoodfolk.com