So happy to announce I made an extensive application to work with Judy Stakee who has helped develop, sign, and mentor artists such as Sheryl Crow, Katy Perry, Gavin DeGraw, and Joy Williams. Additionally Stakee was Senior Vice-President of Creative at Warner Chappell Music.
She recently contacted me with the wonderful news that I had been selected as one of 20 women to work with her one-on-one during a five-day songwriting retreat in Ben Lomond, CA. The retreat would include intensive songwriting, access to a recording studio, vocal coaching, and opportunities to work with selected music industry professionals.
For the first time, I submitted three newly written songs in their raw, unpolished form, recorded at home with only my own piano accompaniment. These were songs I had written over the preceding few months for my new album. Although I had shared works in progress with trusted teachers and mentors, presenting such personal, unfinished material for consideration outside that familiar circle was a new level of vulnerability for me.
Being selected after sharing those recordings was especially meaningful. Having Judy also compliment my production of “A Lover Is Forever,” a fully produced recording, made the experience even more rewarding.
Stakee wrote:
"Hi Meghan,
I am so glad you applied for the retreat.
I really like your voice and your unique style. I also like your production on 'Lover Is Forever.'
So, Congratulations, I am delighted to inform you that you have been selected to participate in my “It All Starts With A Song” California Songwriting Retreat: September 25-29, 2017."
I'm SOOO excited to work with such a fantastic mentor and artist development powerhouse in such a gorgeous location.
