Spotlight: Megan Winsor

Can you introduce yourself and share some insights into your background? Describe your journey into music and the experiences that have shaped you as an artist today.

Hi! My name is Megan Winsor. I am a singer/songwriter and producer. 

Growing up only an hour away from Los Angeles, created a bug inside of me, to hustle until I accomplished my dreams. My family would have never expected to raise a musician. The only link that got me here was my great-grandfather’s church piano in our living room, which I was obsessed with. I self-taught piano and started profusely writing songs before the age of 13. I was then blessed with a piano teacher who was a singer/songwriter herself to teach me how to read, write, and breathe music. By the age of 15, I released my first EP and started gigging. It was the only way I knew how to get my music out there. 

In beach towns with thousands of tourists coming through each week, I was lucky to always have a place to perform. I would cold call restaurants and bars from 15-18. I learned quickly how to fake it till I make it and how to sell myself as a business. I spend most of my Friday and Saturday nights in the corner of a crowded room, singing to hundreds of strangers. 

I then made my way to music school where I released another two albums and graduated with a degree in Music Industry from USC Thornton. During my time there, I was lucky to perform in venues throughout LA and work with amazing musicians who have taught me so much. 

I recently released my latest album, Intermission, and I think about the girl who taught herself piano a lot. 

How did you start with Music Forward? Tell us your journey.

When the pandemic hit in 2020, I was looking for any and every way to stay connected to the music industry. I discovered Music Forward and admired the effort they were making with Zoom events and live streams. I participated in a couple of Open Mic Fridays where I was able to connect with other artists and mentors. After the pandemic, I was stoked to be a part of A&R lightening rounds during All Access Fest which has really opened doors for me.

You are performing at our Live @ The Viper Room show in LA on August 20th. What can the audience expect from your performance?

I am very excited about this performance! The Viper Room is actually the first venue in LA that I ever performed in LA back in 2018. I am excited to sing new songs off of my new album, INTERMISSION, and a cover song by one of my favorite artists right now. 

As a songwriter, where do you find your biggest inspirations? What helps you when you are experiencing writer’s block?

As cheesy as it sounds, I do find inspiration in everyday life. Songwriting is a form of therapy for me. Sitting down and trying to write brings up the truest of feelings and emotions I’m currently going through. If I’m ever feeling uninspired, I like to put myself in someone else’s shoes – fictional or not – and discovering what they would write about. 

What’s your biggest “flex”? Don’t be afraid to brag on yourself a bit!

My album release show back in June! It was a personal goal of mine to play one of my favorite bars in LA, Good Times at Davey Waynes, and not only did I play it, it was packed with about 150 people. I had friends, family, and fans in the room and the vibes were immaculate. When the crowd sang back to me, I knew it was going to be a “I made it” moment. 

You recently released your latest project, Intermission. How would you describe this project and what is the story behind it?

This album – it all started during a time when I was feeling really lost in myself. I’d always had this plan for my life, like go to high school, go to college, and then… well, after that, it was all a blur. But as an artist, you don’t have the luxury of knowing what the future holds. I called it intermission because this time in my life felt like I was always waiting for the next thing, and in a weird lull, never knowing when the next big thing or “act” was going to hit. The themes of the album, they’re all about trying to hold onto youthfulness while figuring out who I am and what actually makes me happy. Trying to balance staying young at heart and growing up. 

“Cruel” captures that feeling of being young and clueless yet too old to ask for help. “Favorite” reflects on being the villain in someone else’s story. “The Type” is all about learning to rely on myself. “Sure” speaks to the uncertainty of the future. “Ash” delves into the pain of losing a friendship. “90s Van” celebrates youthful freedom. “Try to H8 U” deals with the aftermath of a breakup. And “You Ruined My Favorite Bar” is just a funny story turned into a fun song. Together, these songs really sum up the past two years of my life, filled with contemplation, fun, and living in the moment amidst all the uncertainty.

I’m really thankful for this phase of my life, but I’m also really glad to be moving on from it. There’s definitely a light at the end of the tunnel, and I’m just so proud of these songs and what they mean to me. If you’re feeling stuck in your own intermission right now, just know that it won’t last forever, and you’ll come out of it stronger.

Share some wisdom with us. What’s the most valuable advice you’ve received while pursuing your musical dreams, and how has it influenced your journey?

Be authentic and genuine when networking – just try to build friendships. People will hire who they want to hang out with in the studio, on tour, or on stage. And be humble. You never know who in your life is the next big thing. 

I genuinely have made so many true friends and so many wonderful memories because I have kept this in mind. It truly makes making music more fun.

Looking ahead, what are your future aspirations in your music career? Can you share specific goals you have for the future, both artistically and professionally? Do you have projects coming up that will help you meet these goals?

My short-term goal is to get more involved in the producer and songwriter scene. I am excited to work and learn from my colleagues. I also have some more music I am sitting on that is coming soon

Lastly, let’s delve into the essence of music. How does music personally move you, and what emotions or experiences fuel your creative process?

Shamelessly, I can say music is my biggest love. I love going to shows, consuming it in every way it comes, and the art that goes hand in hand with it. I am so inspired when I get the privilege to witness the talent that’s out there. Making music and the collaboration that it induces is so freeing and I absolutely love chasing the high from creating the perfect rhyme or finding that catchy melody.

Be sure to follow Megan on Instagram (@megan.winsor) and keep up with her latest projects!