Written by Marilù Ciabattoni
Discovered via Musosoup
What most catches my attention about Natalie Farrell’s latest track is her confidence as she proclaims herself, halfway between singing and rapping, a “motherfucking boss bitch.” It’s her flow, the harmonies layered over each other and this hip-hop vibe that makes “Mantra” so damn catchy.
The track flows surprisingly well considering that, originally, she was mostly inspired by R&B and rock artists like Amy Winehouse and Paramore. I can definitely hear the R&B influences on this pop track, materialized as the soulful tone in her voice while singing “I need to breathe / I’m on my knees.”
Find out what drives Natalie Farrell’s music in today’s interview with the New Jersey-based artist.
Introduce yourself: Who is Natalie Farrell? How and when was the project born?
My name is Natalie Farrell and I’m a singer/songwriter/performer based out of Asbury Park, NJ. I’m most known in the music scene for my eclectic mix of musical genres including pop, nu-disco, and rock. I express my creativity not only through my music itself but also through my live performances. My visual dynamics include eccentric outfits, dance choreography and creating an atmosphere that will help the audience feel and relate to my music in a euphoric way.
From 2015 to 2017, I was exploring different opportunities to perform at live local music venues. After performing cover songs at several open mics, I finally met a music community that welcomed me with open arms, the Asbury Park community. There, I met my bandmates and soon after released my debut single, “Exhale” in 2017. Since then, I have performed at iconic venues such as The Stone Pony in Asbury Park and PNC Bank Arts Center in Holmdel, where I opened for legendary artists Sammy Hagar and George Thorogood.
How has your music changed in the past few years?
For a while, I created a discography of music that was steered in the R&B, soul, and rock genres. And that was where I felt most comfortable. But, I always wanted to experiment with pop and push my boundaries further, so I decided to step into unknown territory and give it a try. While keeping my roots of soul and rock, I incorporated a new sound mixed in with today’s mainstream pop and nu-disco.
Who inspired your music? Who are your biggest influences?
Growing up in Brooklyn, New York, rock and Motown were always playing in my house. I went from listening to Led Zeppelin one day, to the Marvelettes the next. As I got older and began finding my taste in music, I found that I was heavily influenced by a mix of musical genres. My biggest influences today include Paramore, Amy Winehouse, P!nk, Fleetwood Mac, JLo, and Alanis Morrissette.
Could you introduce your favourite singles you've released so far?
My favourite singles I’ve released so far are “Exhale,” “Fake Authenticity,” “Out of Touch,” and “Mantra.”
How did you develop this style? Will you experiment with other genres in the future?
I developed my earlier style while working in the studio with my guitar player, Matt Fernicola. We had similar tastes in music and always did the songwriting process together. More recently, I found myself eager to present a more empowering, self-expressive, and unapologetic version of myself. I knew that going in the pop direction would let me explore that side of me, while also incorporating the style I’ve already built into my music. However, I don’t think it’s going to stop there. I’d like to continue to explore different genres in the future and find innovative ways to make my music unique, eclectic, and relatable to my audience.
Let's talk about "Mantra:" What inspired it and how did it come to life?
Over the last year, I’ve struggled with self-love and embracing who I am. I was too focused on the opinions of others, and let my anxiety take over for the longest time. Something in me just finally said, “no more”. I had enough. I did a complete 180 and started meditating, doing more yoga, planning self-care days, and writing daily affirmations/mantras.
I teamed up with my producer and good friend, Russell Hayden on this most recent EP. He helped me get the words I wanted to express out and onto paper and created the pop vibe I’ve been longing to tap into. We discussed how overworked I had been, but how I never gave up. Between my day job, music and gigs, social life, married life, and self-care, I wanted to express that it’s okay to be overwhelmed and take time to heal. We’ve been taught in this society that if we’re not busy or stressed out, we’re doing it all wrong. But it’s the complete opposite. We should take time to remind ourselves that we are more than enough and that it’s okay to feel good about ourselves. Whether it’s something as big as chasing your dreams, or as simple as taking the day to pamper yourself, you are the creator of your reality. Do whatever makes you happy, and be unapologetically you.
Who produces your tracks? How do you choose which producers to work with? Do you have some dream producers you'd like to work with?
Most of the producers I work with are within my group of friends, or I network within the music community. As mentioned, my friend Russell Hayden produced my latest EP MANTRA. I’ve also produced with my bandmates, Lou Panico, Matt Fernicola, and Joshua Van Ness. Joe Pomarico, the Founder of Telegraph Hill Records, has also helped produce a good portion of my discography, along with good friend Nick Ryan, who produced “Fake Authenticity” and “All Nighter.” My biggest dream is to someday have Rick Rubin produce an album for me.
Is music your main occupation at the moment? If not, how are you conciliating your day job with your music career?
As much as I’d love to have music as my main occupation, I currently have a day job. I work 9-5 during the week. I’ll work throughout the day, and then set aside time after, during breaks, or on the weekends to work on my music.
Have you ever been on tour? If not, would you like to embark on one? If yes, tell us about it.
I’ve never been on tour, though I do plan to embark on one soon. I’m hoping to go on my first tour next year!
Who's your dream feature?
I’d love to someday be featured in the Rolling Stone magazine. So many iconic artists have been featured in this magazine, and it would be a huge milestone for my music career.
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