Check out our interview with Ohio singer/songwriter Liv Miraldi, who just released her new single “Friend of the Family.”

Following her recent single “Denver,” which received widespread editorial recognition on digital streaming platforms, including placements in Spotify’s New Music Friday, Next Gen Singer-Songwriters, and Created by Women playlists, Liv Miraldi unveils “Friend of the Family.” This single might be her most compelling narrative to date. “Friend of the Family” is a poignant open letter addressed to a parent involved in an affair, told from the perspective of the daughter.

Liv has captured attention with her viral hits “Wingwoman” and “Same People,” in addition to her extensive songwriting collaborations with artists such as Tinashe, Mod Sun, Lauren Spencer Smith, Natalie Jane, Johnny Orlando, Charlotte Sands, GAYLE, Arden Jones, VINCINT, and more.

Follow Liv @livmiraldi

Hi Liv, describe your sound in three words.

Raw, lyrical, and emotive.

Who influenced you, and why did you choose to make music?

So many artists and writers have influenced me- from Sufjan Stevens to Kacey Musgraves to Third Eye Blind to Aaron Dessner to Taylor Swift. I’m inspired by so many genres, I can’t pick just one.

I chose to make music because I’ve always felt pulled towards writing; songs, books, poems, etc. I’ve been journaling for as long as I can remember and found processing emotions confusing and fascinating. I think songwriting and artistry really married the two for me. Being able to articulate new feelings and old feelings articulated in new ways has been an exciting challenge for me.

Do you play any instruments?

I play guitar! And a *little* bit of uke and piano.

Tell us about your new single, “Friend of the Family.” What’s the story behind the song?

“Friend of the Family” was written during a really lonely time during my parents divorce. I was full of so many feelings and this anger I had never experienced. It was a really challenging experience, and writing about it seemed like the only way through to the other side.

Can you walk us through your creative process for this single? How did the idea come to life?

I was having a conversation about my life in the studio with my co-writers, OSTON and Michael Blum. As I was talking, the lyrics fell out and we wrote the song t in 2 hours. I didn’t think I’d ever release it because of how personal it is; but I showed it to my producer, Ella Boh, months later and she convinced me to put it out in the world.

Were there any specific experiences or emotions that fueled the writing and composition of this song?

This song was fueled by grief disguised as anger. Luckily, I don’t feel this rage viscerally anymore. This song really gave me a safe space to let it all out and leave it on the mic and move beyond it.

How do you usually start working on a new song? Do you begin with lyrics, melodies, or a concept?

I like to begin with a concept or title. I tend to write the last two lines of the chorus and work backwards.

How involved were you in the production and arrangement of “Friend of the Family?”

Michael Blum and Ella Boh really spearheaded the production, but I knew the sonic lane I wanted it to live in. I knew I wanted those drums to come in during the second verse, and I wanted gang vocals on the bridge. I brainstormed some references and they brought it to life.

And about the success of your previous hit singles “Wingwoman” and “Same People?”

I’m forever grateful for those songs. They really helped me find my confidence as an artist again and connected me to so many amazing people.

What is the most rewarding part of your work?

There are a few rewarding parts. First, when we lock in the lyrics and melodies, it gives me a high. I come into the room with nothing and leave with a 3-minute memory I’ll have forever. I also love when someone relates to the song. Once the song is released, it can mean a million different things to someone else, and I think that’s the magic I love making.

What book should every entrepreneur read?

Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert (especially entrepreneurs in the creative world)

What advice would you give to your younger self, and why?

Don’t compare yourself to anyone, just keep your head down and work hard. I think in my early 20’s there were times I missed my blessings because I was busy counting someone else’s. Comparison is such a distraction.

How would your best friend describe you?

She’d probably say I’m loyal, reliable, compassionate, and an anxious person haha.

If you were a book, what would be the title of the book and why?

Stressed, Blessed, and a Flaming Hot Mess. Need I say more?

What’s next for Liv Miraldi in 2024?

2024 is going to be (already has been) a huge year for me. I’m releasing my debut EP, “2019,” which includes not only “Friend of the Family,” but also my last single, “Denver.” Each song is a chapter from that year.

What is your favorite healthy food?

Any salad from Sweetgreen! I’m obsessed.

And your favorite cheat food?

I love a good chocolate chip cookie.

How would you explain your fashion style?

Jennifer Aniston in the 90s is my north star, but sometimes I stray and am a bit more sporty or cottage core leaning, depending on the day.

What is your own definition of happiness?

I think it looks different for everyone, but for me it means creating, connecting, and doing what I love with the people I love.

If you could meet someone living or dead, who would it be and why?

So hard to pick just one! I’d love to talk to Taylor Swift and her entire marketing team. Just to ask questions and learn from the greatest of all time.

What would be your dream holiday, and who would you go with?

My best friend and I have been wanting to do a Southeast Asia trip! Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines would be the dream.

Where do you see yourself and your career in 5 years?

Someone just asked me this the other day! I really want to live on an island, keep creating, and meeting people from all over the world.

What is your favorite song to belt out in the car or for karaoke?

Players by Coi Leray!!

Favorite:

Book: Beneath a Scarlet Sky by Mark T. Sullivan

Quote: “Art is when a human tells another human what it is to be human”- Adrian Elmer

Movie: Argo

TV Series: The Morning Show (shoutout Reese Witherspoon)

Favorite Food: Pad Thai

Travel Destination: Hawaii

Sports Team: Cleveland Cavaliers, baby!