With a remarkable ability to harness compassion and empathy as a result of her previous experience in social work as a guidance counselor, Onoleigh’s songwriting has reached listeners on a powerful personal level with songs that are relatable and lean into what others are feeling. She’s collaborated with John Oates (Hall & Oates), Nathan Chapman (Taylor Swift), and has worked with Producer Brandon Hood (Sam Hunt and Rascal Flatts). Her song “Sunshine & Lemonade” was included in the soundtrack for the movie “Gringa,” which was released in March. Her previously released single “Make It Hurt,” was co-written by Maren Morris, Rhett Akins, and Chris DeStefano.
Onoleigh’s most recent song, “Tightrope,” showcases Onoleigh’s sensitivity and her ability to imbue her performances with emotion. In our interview, Onoleigh discusses how she negotiates life on the road.
Do you play covers at your shows? Why or Why not?
I actually love playing covers at my shows as it engages the audience in a very nostalgic way. For example, I recently played the CMA Theater at The Country Music Hall of Fame and when creating my setlist, I decided to include a Patsy Cline tune to honor her in the very iconic venue. I think there is something very powerful about keeping music alive long after an artist is no longer with us. I can only hope that my music is able to do the same thing some day.
How do you kill the long hours in the van?
My most favorite way to pass time on the road would be rotating the AUX chord/bluetooth around with fellow bandmates. The amount of times I have been introduced to songs that I wouldn’t have known otherwise is immeasurable. Of course these musicians do a great job playing my music, but I like to really immerse myself in the songs that got them to that point.
How do you manage having a good time at shows, but also trying to stay mentally and physically fit?
This is something I am still trying to figure out, to be completely transparent. It’s very easy to get caught up in the moment when playing shows since artistry is a very passionate profession, nothing else seems to matter when you’re on stage, however, realizing that longevity is crucial to the success of the music makes it a lot easier to get your priorities in order. Self care is hard on the road as there isn’t a lot of consistency, so you have to actively prioritize yourself as best as you can. Even further, my main instrument is my voice and if I’m not taking care of my health, I physically can’t perform to the best of my ability. It’s all a cycle and cracking the code is the skill that I believe musicians are constantly trying to master.
Who would you love to collaborate with? why?
I would love to collaborate with the one and only Marcus King. I have the most respect for Marcus as not only a musician, but as a person. I feel that he and I could create some of the most soulful, melodically powerful music. We both have that intensity in our voices and with his transcendent guitar playing, I think the outcome would be fantastic.
What’s the best way a fan can support you?
Of course there is always listening to my music, going to shows and buying merch, but I know that not everyone can always do that. With that said, personally, hearing stories of how my music has impacted their life is just what I need most days to keep going and keep on creating. Knowing that someone feels a little less alone and a little more understood is reason enough to power on through some of the hardest days.