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Image via John Michael Fulton
Daily Discovery is a feature that will highlight a new or recently discovered artist that we’re excited about. See the rest of our Daily Discoveries here.
By Rosa Barney
If you’re a fan of Lorde, Banks, or Laurel, you should add Grace Mitchell to your list of young new artists to look out for. Her SoundCloud has two tracks on it, with a combined play count of about 6,000, but we expect that number to change dramatically in the coming months.
You might recognize her name from the soundtrack of The Secret Life of Walter Mitty. Her cover of Hall & Oates’ “Maneater” is a refreshing update on an ‘80s classic, but outside of SoundCloud, that’s all we’ve got. There isn’t much out there on Grace Mitchell yet.
What we know is that she is 16, from Portland, Oregon, and she has the musical ability of a woman who is older and wiser. Her voice is polished and powerful, and her songwriting is confident. There’s pop appeal here, but it’s deeper than the bubblegum sounds we’re used to hearing from teens who are still finding their footing. She’s only in high school, but she’s been making music for seven years—almost half of her life. And at only 16, Grace Mitchell sounds very sure that she’s doing exactly what she’s supposed to be doing.
What is the story behind “Broken Over You”?
“Broken Over You” is a story about a dramatic love affair, as well as the complicated feelings that come with infatuation.
How long have you been making music?
I’ve been writing and composing music for about seven years and recording and producing for four. I’ve always loved making music and I foresee myself performing and writing for the rest of my life.
Who are your inspirations and influences?
From a young age I’ve always been inspired by empowered, female songwriters—Joni Mitchell, Tori Amos, Paula Cole, Alanis Morissette, and most recently, Lana Del Rey. Although the album is its own embodiment and encompasses many genres, some of the influences for sound can be found in the style of ’90s to contemporary indie pop.
What can we expect to hear next?
I plan to release an EP at some point this fall. The circumstances I want to convey in the songs will broaden to relatable subjects like growth, first experiences, obsession, loneliness, and some personal stories about my own life. The sound, while pop accessible and sonically palatable, will show its indie influence with experimental samples, abstract structure choices, and at times, a lo-fi portrayal… but not all the time.
Were you a Hall & Oates fan prior to your “Maneater” cover?
Yes! When I heard about the request for the “Maneater” cover I was overwhelmingly excited. One of my favorite shows is Live From Daryl’s House where Daryl Hall takes contemporary artists and accompanies them in performances of their songs, as well as Hall & Oates covers.
Who are some producers/artists you would like to work with in the future?
Daryl Hall.
