Mikalah Gordon made her entertainment debut as a top-12 contestant on the hit show American Idol. Her run on Idol, combined with her powerful voice and unique stage presence, earned her a record deal with famed judge Randy Jackson. Mikalah Gordon has released the second single from her debut album, Vivian. Good Girl [Acoustic] is the story of Mikalah's journey on the hit series and the effects it had on her self-esteem after. Written by Mikalah Gordon and Brandon Rogers, Good Girl is a power anthem for anyone who holds onto the pain that others have inflicted on them.
By Kamil Bobin
Kamil) Hey Mikalah Gordon, super nice to have the chance to chat with you. What first got you into music?
My dad is an amazing jazz musician and so is my grandfather. It really runs on both sides of my family, but my dad really taught me everything.
Describe your favorite and least favorite part about being a musician.
My favorite thing is definitely sharing my story thru music, and watching how it can make someone feel seen or heard in ways they can’t communicate themselves. I think equally, showing that kind of vulnerability not only leaves you feeling exposed, it’s not easy to be critiqued or judged on. But, the good always weighs out the bad.
Your latest song is 'Good Girl (Acoustic)'. Can you share with us the background of its creation and did any unusual things happen during its creation?
Good girl is definitely one of my favorite songs on the album. It is the story of what my experience was as a sixteen year old, on American Idol. If you listen to the lyrics, it really is more about what I’m saying that I’m singing this song. It’s acknowledging how difficult my life was at that point, and telling myself, I love you and I see you, and I am so proud of you.
Can you write about the behind-the-scenes creation of the music video?
I am lucky to know some pretty amazing musicians. My dear friend Bryce Soderberg, from the band Lighthouse, just moved to Vegas, and I wanted to just have a jam session. It was definitely a surreal moment, sitting in the same house as Ben Carey (Soundgarden), and playing with Bryce, because these are bands I listened to growing up. It was a magical moment that my buddy Connor Bates captured, and I am super grateful for that.
Where are you from and do you have a stable home or do you prefer travelling?
I am originally from Las Vegas. After 20 years of extensive travel and a home base of Los Angeles, my fiancé and I decided to yet again, make Vegas home. I think work will always have me traveling, and I truly enjoy it! But, I am betting on Vegas, to be my next lucky star.
How would you describe the music that you typically create?
It really is just the most authentic process. I only work with people I love and trust, because everything I write, good or bad, comes from truth. Brandon Rogers, from American Idol, co wrote and produced my whole album. He met me at a very dark place in the beginning of my album journey, and he truly helped with the healing.
How do you nurture your own creativity?
I nurture it by never pushing it or creating unrealistic expectations. If it’s there, I let it flow. If I have writers block, I honor that. I treat my creativity like my 6 year old self. I do a lot of self care and create safe spaces, and that’s where I best flow.
If you could go open a show for any artist, who would it be?
Omg! Hmmm, if I could open for anyone, maybe Brandi Carlisle. I just love her. I am An OG fan tbh. My little lesbian heart had such a crush on her when she came out with The Story. It is a fact, she did not auto tune that album. I mean, how many artists can say that! Love her.
Who's your ideal musician to collaborate with and why?
Omg! Hmmm, if I could open for anyone, it would have to be Sia. I just love her so much. The rawness and grit of her vocals. Her honesty in her lyrics. She simply DGAF and I love that about her. My best friend, Amy, who started as my vocal coach, is her vocal coach. So maybe she will put in a good word. Lol!
What are your plans for the future?
My plans for the future are to build my podcast So Funny It Hurts, where I interview your favorite funny people and explore the trauma that made them that way. I also would like a residency in Vegas, for my upcoming show, NIGHTINGALE. It’s looking exciting!