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While some girls turn to their diary at the end of the day, documenting their feelings and dreams, Kylie Morgan instead wrote songs. Beginning at age 12, the Oklahoma-born singer/songwriter crafted lyrically honest reflections that belied her young years, self-releasing them as she went.
That early start paved the way to a lot of attention. The Country Music Association named her as one of its "Who New to Watch" just four years later, and at age 19 she relocated to Nashville to give it a real shot.
Now, after touring with a growing number of heavy hitters, such as Little Big Town and Maren Morris, Morgan has released her debut EP Love, Kylie. Produced by Shane McAnally and Ben Johnson, it's stacked full of bright, pop-country tracks that showcase her clever lyricism and crackling voice.
Morgan co-wrote all seven songs, revealing her comfort with a flirty wink of a song, such as 'I Only Date Cowboys', and with emotionally anthemic numbers, like 'Break Things'. Check out the music video for her fast-paced, foot-stomping single 'Shoulda' below.
Morgan isn't slowing down. In fact, she's already started working on the follow-up to Love, Kylie. She spoke with Holler about how Shania Twain inspired her when she was younger, the three major artists she'd love to collaborate with one day and why being sad fuels her creative spark.
Where are you from and has that influenced the type of artist you are?
I’m originally from Newcastle, Oklahoma. I feel like some of my favorite artists are from small towns - maybe it’s something in our water or maybe it’s just because there wasn’t a lot to do so we all picked up a guitar.
Speaking of influences, what were you listening to growing up?
I first started realizing my love for dancing and singing when I watched all of the Shirley Temple videos. As I grew up and Shania Twain's album UP came out, I knew I wanted to make my own version of music like that.
Did you ever want to do something other than music?
I was a gymnast for 10 years, after starting at three years old. Once I realized I wasn’t going to the Olympics, I thought I would pick the next hardest thing to accomplish and become a female country artist, haha.
Are you more creative when you’re happy or when you’re sad?
I feel like every artist is more creative when they’re sad. It’s a lot easier to put those feelings into words because, in my opinion, when I’m happy, I feel like my songs can feel cheesy or forced. But I feel like I finally figured out how to get my upbeat and fun personality in the happy songs.
What drives you the most?
Dreams drive me the most. The visions I see for myself, my future and my fans keep me going.
In general which comes first for you, the title or the song?
Usually the title comes first for me. But I also wake up with melodies in my head, in the middle of the night, that I record on my phone. So it kind of just depends on the song and the subject matter.
Who would be your dream collaboration?
I think my dream collaboration would be a tie between Taylor Swift, Shania Twain or Lizzo. I love each of them and their music for such different reasons but truly believe they are each one of the kind.
What’s next?
I’m so excited to say that we are already working on a new project. I’m hoping my follow up EP will be out this fall! I’m so excited for you guys to hear what is next and all of the things that I didn’t get to say on the first body of work.
