Up-and-coming singer-songwriter Fiona Hewes has just dropped her first single “Wrong Connection,” with plans to release her new EP 8:10 this Fall.
We recently chatted with the 17-year-old multi-instrumentalist where she discussed her musical influences, her artistic process and the significance of her forthcoming EP’s title, among other things.
Check out Hewes’ debut single here and scroll down for our complete Q&A interview with the artist.
Eponymous Review: Congratulations on 8:10! What is the significance of the EP’s title and how did that shape the vibe of the songs?
Fiona Hewes: Thank you. My dad recommended that I title the EP 8:10 when we began planning to record my music in Nashville. When I was little, if someone were to ask me what time it was, I would always say “8:10.” I can’t remember why, but ever since then, weird things happen to my family and me at 8:10. In my perspective, the title makes the EP more personal because the concept is so sentimental. I like to think that there are different aspects of my personality in every individual song, and none of them feel the same.
ER: Which do you write first, the music or the lyrics?
FH: I usually start with a set of chords and one particular concept or verse and I write the rest of the song around them. It can take me anywhere between 30 minutes to a year to finish a song. Sometimes I’ll write lines in my notes when I don’t have an instrument and go back to them later.
ER: Would you say you’re more inspired by personal experiences or by what you observe in society at large?
FH: I’m definitely more inspired by personal experience. I don’t believe someone can truly understand something until it’s been witnessed firsthand. Sometimes I write about other people and their experiences, but I have to understand them more in-depth than just a story. Though I’m interested in both, I like to separate my music from my political and philosophical beliefs. Society is such a cold, analytical concept that I have a hard time applying to art (unless it’s painting).
ER: Who are some of your musical influences, both current and past legends?
FH: My most substantial musical influence is Cage the Elephant. Their music was the gateway to my discovery of countless other alternative artists and bands like Portugal. The Man, The Arctic Monkeys, and The Strokes. Their performances consistently captivate me, and the entire band’s stage presence is incredible. I’ve been to over 40 concerts so far, and I don’t believe I’ll ever see a better live performance. Billie Eilish’s voice is unique and breathtaking. Her music and success consistently inspire me to write. Other artists I listen to include King Princess, Sabrina Carpenter, Bishop Briggs, and K.Flay.
ER: I understand that you play several instruments. Do you have a favorite?
FH: Yeah, the guitar has always been my favorite instrument. It was easy for me to teach myself because I had a background in piano, but it still challenges me after years of playing. I began singing because it was something to add to guitar and when people responded positively, I didn’t stop. Then I began writing music when I was thirteen.
ER: With artists like Billie Eilish and Khalid breaking out in their teens, young artists are among some the most prolific of this time. As a young artist yourself, what do you think inspires this generation to create music?
FH: As a result of the internet and social progression, this generation has become the most communicative yet. Topics that were once branded as taboo are now more acceptable to talk about. With an increase in the exchange of ideas comes the drive for stimulation and creation. Technology has made learning about and creating music so incredibly accessible and has pushed the exponential growth of people’s careers, especially for the younger generation. People are consistently saying that this generation of young adults are the most depressed they’ve ever been and I’m not sure how true that is. We’re just not as afraid to talk about it anymore. I feel a sense of self-satisfaction when I write a song from a simple emotion even if it happens to be sadness or anger. Creating and listening to other people’s work is therapeutic.
ER: Will you be touring in support of the EP?
FH: I don’t have any plans on touring yet because I am still in school and I’m not a big enough artist yet, but hopefully someday I’ll be able to perform.
ER: Is there anything else you’d like to share with Eponymous Review readers?
FH: There are four more singles of mine coming out this fall. They are simple acoustic tracks, but I plan on releasing bigger and better things in the future.
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Keep up with Hewes through her website and look for her new EP 8:10, out this fall.