Sometimes the hardest part of a breakup isn't losing someone, but watching somebody else benefit from everything you helped them become. It's an uncomfortable emotional territory that Molly Tinsley explores with striking clarity on her new single ‘I Built The Man’.
The Nashville-based country singer-songwriter turns personal experience into a bittersweet reflection on love, sacrifice and the lasting influence two people can have on one another. Acoustic guitar and mandolin meet piano, electric guitar and a full rhythm section, giving the song enough intimacy for her storytelling to remain front and centre while allowing its emotional weight to gradually expand.
So with the new single out now, we sat down with her to find out more about her origins and what has been inspiring her most over the years.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
Ukulele. I learned to play when I was around 10 years old at a summer camp. I still remember playing with and performing for my cabin mates. Once I felt like I had mastered it, I wanted a new challenge. I was gifted my first guitar when I turned 12, and after teaching myself to play, there haven’t been many days since that I haven’t picked it up.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
I was always the biggest fan of pop music, especially Taylor Swift. My entire childhood bedroom was covered in her posters and magazine cutouts. I never imagined I’d end up falling in love with country music, let alone making it myself.
What was the first album you remember owning?
Definitely Fearless by Taylor Swift. I used to collect CDs as a kid, and I know for sure I had that one because I’d put it on and perform little concerts for my stuffed animals in my bedroom. I was convinced I was playing to a sold-out crowd.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
Wedding Dress by Megan Moroney
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
I write everything down, every day. If someone says something that sticks with me, I write it down. If a random song title or lyric idea pops into my head, I write it down. Sometimes it’s just a couple of words, but I never want to lose an idea. I almost always start with the chorus because I want to know exactly what the main message of the song is. One thing that’s a little different about my writing process is that I usually wait until most of the lyrics are finished before I come up with a melody. I like to fully understand what I’m trying to say first, then let the melody reflect the emotion behind those words.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
Sierra Ferrell. I have a huge obsession with her ever since I saw her open for Chris Stapleton back in February. That girl is incredibly talented and pure.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
Megan Moroney. I see a lot of similarities between us, both in our songwriting and our personalities. We both have that boy-focused, strong, unapologetic kind of vibe. She’s an incredible artist, and opening for her one day would be the biggest honor.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
The most rewarding part of being a musician is getting to turn my hardest experiences into something meaningful. Writing songs has always been a way for me to make sense of what I’ve been through, and it’s even more rewarding when someone tells me they connected with a lyric or felt less alone because of one of my songs. That’s why I do it.
And what is the most frustrating part?
Probably how competitive the industry is. There are so many incredibly talented artists all chasing the same dream, and it’s easy to compare myself or wonder if what I’m creating is special enough. I have to remind myself that no one else has my story or my perspective, and that’s what makes my music different.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
The best advice I’ve received is to write as much as you can and never stop learning from other people. Pay attention to what’s working, what isn’t, and what listeners are connecting with, because the industry is always changing. I think being observant is one of the most important qualities a songwriter can have. You can always learn something from the people around you while still staying true to your own voice.
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Molly Tinsley's new single 'I Built The Man' is out now. Check it out in the player below.