Having just performed her latest Christmas duet with Jason Mraz on the Today Show, popular indie-pop artist Ingrid Michaelson is back with a new project ‘Stranger Songs’ - an album inspired by Netflix series Stranger Things. A definite change in style, this new offering provides an electro-pop feel reminiscent of a magnetic 80’s vibe for her ninth studio album release.

Here’s a series of questions I asked Ingrid to gain a little further insight into her work as an artist:

• Q) Your latest single “Christmas Valentine" is a duet with Jason Mraz. How did you become friends with him and what do you like best about his work as an artist?

• A) We toured a long time ago in Europe together. He’s very empathetic and gives back to the world. I love that. 

• Q) ‘Stranger Songs’ is your new album, which is inspired by the Sci-Fi series Stranger Things- this must be something quite revolutionary in terms of songwriting. Was it more challenging to convey your message using the series as an influence, as opposed to your previous songwriting influences?
• A) It was actually easier in some ways. I used the stories these characters went through as a channel. A lot of my own stuff is in there, but the inspiration came from the show. 

• Q) You’ve had a number of high-profile collaborations - your recent song with Jason Mraz, co-writing the Cheryl Cole hit "Parachute" and having your music used on TV commercials. Are there any other artists in mind that you would like to collaborate with?
• A) My go to answer has always been Chris Martin. Janelle Monae is pretty rad too. 

• Q) Who are your main influences as an artist?
• A) Imogen Heap. Regina Spektor. Death Cab for Cutie. To name a few. 

• Q) Last year we saw your film debut in Humor Me. You're obviously passionate about theatre and films; is acting in movies something you would like to concentrate on further?

• A) If the right project came along. Definitely!

• Q) Have you got a standout venue/gig performance?
• A) Performing for President Obama in DC was pretty amazing. I got to meet him and Michelle. I was so starstruck.  

• Q) You were discovered as a result of streaming your music on Myspace back in 2006. In some ways, you were part of the first wave of independent artists gaining fame from the web. Now approaching 2020, do you think there's the same opportunity to get noticed from sharing platforms or has it become a little saturated?
• A) I think it’s become so saturated that it’s hard to make a noise and be really heard. But then rises Billie Eilish from SoundCloud!?  So it still happens for sure.  

• Q) Do you have any upcoming tour dates in 2020?
• A) Working on a mini holiday tour!  Hopefully including London!

Thanks Ingrid and good luck with your future projects!

While we’re in the Christmas spirit, you can watch Ingrid's latest duet with Jason Mraz below:

 Electro-pop    Christmas    Indie-pop