I am an accomplished recording artist, singer-songwriter, and producer based in Maryland. With a long list of accolades to my name. I have solidified her reputation as a respected artist in the music industry with multiple nominations for several international awards.
My music has been featured on a variety of platforms, including TV shows, films, and commercials. My work has also appeared on popular shows such as The Young and the Restless, The Voice, and Longmire, as well as in films like Speed Kills and Hallmark's Hope at Christmas. In addition to that, I have also contributed to Amazon Prime's Good Girls Revolt & The Path, CBS Inside the PGA, and the CW Fall Promo, among others.
My music, Indie/Alternative Folk sound is influenced by Ingrid Michaelson, Sheryl Crow, Tristan Prettyman, Meiko, Birdy, The Lumineers, The Head & The Heart, Warpaint, Cannons, Florence and the Machine, Hope Sandoval, London Grammar, The XX, Daughter, The Civil Wars, Colbie Caillat, and Oh Honey.
I am passionate about giving back to my community and has hosted a concert/fundraiser to raise awareness and funds for Pulmonary Hypertension. My niece suffers from this condition, and this concert featured some of the songs I have written over the last 10 years, along with the stories behind them. The concert replay is available on my website, along with information about Pulmonary Hypertension.
Moreover, I am also a mentor to aspiring musicians and teaches courses on how to build a business in music licensing. I have held workshops for women to help them overcome fears, find their self-worth, passions, and achieve their dreams.
I have performed at various corporate events and venues, including the Bethesda Blues and Jazz Club, Signature Theatre, and several concert series such as Focus Music and Stone Room Concerts. My set list is diverse and includes music from various eras and genres, from The Eagles to Sheryl Crow to Guns N' Roses, guaranteeing a crowd-pleasing performance.
I came from a place of low self-worth, not believing that I could sing or write songs. It was a dark time because, deep down, that is what I wanted to do. I went into biology instead of following music, for a long time. In the early 2000's, I finally started working slowly toward my original dream. It was a hard long road of self-doubt and feeling the need to "catch up".
In 15 short years, I learned, Ukulele, guitar, learned how to sing properly, started writing songs, getting songs into Film & TV, & winning awards. I know that everyone has worked hard and has had demons to fight. I just feel like I have had to work extra hard to get to where I am because music had not been my whole life.
Although I've achieved milestones in both artistic expression and personal development, I consider my most significant accomplishment to be organizing a concert to raise awareness for Pulmonary Hypertension, a life-threatening disease.
This cause is deeply personal to me as my niece battles this condition, which has brought immense medical and emotional challenges to her and her loved ones. A portion of the concert proceeds was donated to the Pulmonary Hypertension Association, and I remain committed to educating others about this illness.
The music industry has undergone significant changes in recent years, largely due to advancements in technology, shifts in consumer behavior, and the rise of digital platforms. The rise of digital platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube have transformed how music is distributed and consumed.
I prioritize digital distribution and leveraging streaming services to reach wider audiences. TV is another platform where audiences have found great music. So, writing for Film & TV has been a way for me to adapt & get more listeners. I can also analyze streaming metrics, social media engagement, and audience demographics to tailor their marketing strategies and identify growth opportunities for my music.
The winning song "Why Don't They Choose Me", which creates a narrative that explores the impact of childhood trauma, teenage angst, and the journey of self-discovery, is part of my upcoming album, "Dig Deeper," a project delving into various life regrets and personal revelations. The song also has a heartfelt music video and deeply expresses the feelings of not fitting in.
The first release off the album is a song called "I Should've Done Better" which is an apology song of sorts. I reflect on regrets and the feelings behind things I should have done/known better. But who really does when they are young. After the release of Why Don't They Choose Me, another song Who Hears the Broken will come out, and that is a heartfelt exploration of why I felt so bad about myself growing up, but it has a hopeful message at the end about strength and that women and girls can be whoever they want to be.
Offer training programs and workshops to help emerging artists navigate the industry, build their skills, and develop sustainable careers. This can include workshops on music production, marketing and promotion, financial literacy, and rights management. Provide platforms and support for underrepresented genres and styles of music, including those rooted in marginalized communities.
This can help elevate the visibility and legitimacy of diverse musical traditions and contribute to a more inclusive music landscape. Encourage media outlets to amplify the voices of emerging artists from diverse backgrounds through features, interviews, and playlist placements. Highlighting a diverse range of artists can help challenge stereotypes, broaden perspectives, and inspire future generations.
Authenticity is key. Stay true to your unique voice, style, and vision. Embrace what makes you stand out as an artist and don't be afraid to showcase your individuality. The music industry is constantly evolving. Stay curious and open-minded, and continually seek out opportunities to learn and grow.
Whether it's mastering a new instrument, exploring different genres, or honing your production skills, never stop challenging yourself to improve. Pursuing a career in music can be demanding both mentally and physically. Prioritize self-care, maintain a healthy work-life balance, and don't forget to nurture your mental and emotional well-being. Remember that your health and happiness are essential for sustaining a long and fulfilling career.
"Why Don't They Choose Me," is my latest acoustic folk creation. This song is a journey into the complexities of not … (Read more at LIT Music Awards.)
Michelle Lockey is an accomplished recording artist, singer-songwriter, and producer based in Maryland. With a lengthy list of accolades, she has solidified her reputation as a respected artist in the music industry, earning multiple nominations for various international awards.
Read more about this interview with Joseph Lu from Italy, the Gold Winner of the 2024 LIT Music Awards.