Atlanta born, LA trained, New Orleans transient, Nashville vibe, and now CA based: Amanda Gunnels is a songwriter who created her alter-stage ego, My Dear Wendy. Her music blends memorable pop melodies with indie rock tones from influences such as Sara Bareilles, Hiam, Andrew McMahon, Grace Potter, Kacey Musgraves, and Larkin Poe. Gunnels went 5 rounds with us and wrote about her writing process, goals, and the rootless roots of her new single “I Don’t Miss Georgia.”
1. Explain the title of your album. Is there an overarching theme?
The Apple Falls Far is a concept album of songs that deal with the complicated emotions in familial relationships. Part One has been released now, with three songs (including “I Don’t Miss Georgia”), and Part Two will be released in August with three more songs. Growing up, I always felt torn with how to feel and how to fit in to what my family “norm” was supposed to be. I wanted to be able to be the person I really was, and follow my own path without judgement or feeling ashamed. That tension grew as I grew more into myself, and eventually ended up with some relationships becoming strained. “I Don’t Miss Georgia” specifically hits on the feelings that I do miss (some of) the people I love and I do miss my family, but I don’t necessarily miss the place. Each song from this album conceptualizes these relationships with my family either individually or as a whole.
2. Do you start with the music or lyrics first and why?
It really kind of depends, but more often than not I start with lyrics because I think in terms of themes. Like, I’ll think “I want to write a song about this topic,” or I’ll come up with a really great one or two liner and build it from there. There’s probably hundreds of notes on my phone of these random song lyric ideas or one liners that I came up with, but just chill there until I come up with a melody or production idea. Once I get into the music writing, the rest of the song comes out pretty quickly. The times I start with music happen when I hear really cool songs, and then I’m inspired to write something that sounds similar. If I get too stuck on lyrics, then I’ll look for musical inspiration to see if that gets my brain going.
3. Do you try to make the most of being in a city, or prefer to just rest up?
I definitely try to make the most of it! Though there is usually not enough time to do much exploring, I’ll look up some of the best local restaurants or cafes that people recommend. That way I can get to experience some of the local culture and enjoy good food. If I do get a whole day or extra time, I’ll try to get recommendations to cool historical spots, or really anywhere the locals would suggest I check out!
4. Is there a professional “bucket list” item you would love to check off?
Yes! I make new goals each year, but one that I’m really hoping for this year is a placement in a Hallmark Christmas movie haha. I’ve been really focusing on TV/Film placements while concerts have been on hiatus, and have been lucky with a couple spots on shows. I’d like to get more placements overall, but getting on a holiday film would be so cool, so I’m working on some holiday music now and fingers crossed one will make it!
5. Recent release you can’t stop listening to?
Alicia Keys & Brandi Carlile “A Beautiful Noise.” It’s such an incredible song, with two of my all time favorite songwriters and artists. I really think everything about it is perfect— the two pianos, the broken down arrangement, two strong and complementary voices and harmonies, the theme of the lyrics— all of it. It’s so beautiful to listen to. Along those lines- it would be my absolute dream to work with Alicia Keys and Brandi Carlile! I love collaborating with other artists I’ve met and continuing to write with cowriters, but if I ever get a chance in the big leagues, these women are at the top of the list.
My Dear Wendy —