Interview by Carol Wright | Photos Courtesy of Bailey Coats
We got to chat with singer/songwriter Bailey Coats about her single “Identity Crisis” and finding other creative outlets during the pandemic.
Growing up did music play a large role in helping you figure out who you are?
Growing up, music has always been a part of my life. It wasn’t something that helped me figure out who I am, it was something that once it entered my life, I knew I couldn’t live without it. It was my first encounter with music that became the catalyst for awakening a dream and a passion that I have had placed upon my life since as early as I can remember.
Who are some of your musical inspirations?
Some of my biggest inspirations include artists like Amy Winehouse, Taylor Swift, Britney Spears, Earth, Wind & Fire, and even a lot of the artists emerging on the scene now. To be able to have music be so accessible these days, I also find myself being inspired by artists I discover through Spotify and SoundCloud such as Audrey Mika, Jvke, Abigail Barlow, and so many more.
Tell our readers about your song “Identity Crisis.” What story are you telling through the song?
When we wrote “Identity crisis,” unbeknownst to me, I was about to enter one of the darkest stages of my entire life. We wrote this record because, at this point, I was questioning and doubting every little thing about myself, my artistry, and my goals that I have had since I was young. The song simply reiterates the idea that sometimes we need to revisit ourselves to rediscover who we actually are and where we are heading.
The pandemic got a lot of people into a strange headspace so you aren’t alone there. Do you think that rediscovering your passion for music during this time will lead to more introspective work?
Absolutely. As devastating as this pandemic has been, there were several byproducts of it that I believe will eventually have positive effects upon the world in the years to come. One being the innovation to come out of these moments of isolation and an appreciation for life and its fragile state. Having gone through this dark period of my life during a dark stage of the world was challenging (like so many others faced as well), but I think by having to confront these adversities head on has reminded myself and others to pursue and do what we love and not allow societal constructs, perceptions, or self-doubt to prevent us from living and creating in the most real and authentic way possible.
You collaborated with Chase Coy on “Identity Crisis.” What did you learn through working with him?
Any time you work with a new producer, you will learn about a new process or new way of creating. With Chase, I learned that I was fully capable of writing more than I realized. He empowered me to challenge myself and really dig deep with the thoughts I wanted to express and figure out a way to construct lyrics that reflected this in a genuine, rather than, cliche way.
When it was difficult to write music during the pandemic did you turn to other creative outlets?
During my time in quarantine, I found myself painting and writing and studying different creative mediums. I wish I had understood how valuable this time was going to be and I wish I could have explored other mediums more. However, this time of isolation definitely encouraged me to pursue different outlets even after the country started to open up.
Do you have a particular songwriting process?
I like to write a song from scratch in one day. No track, no lyrics, no melody, just hustle. I have experienced many different methods, but this is by far my favorite. The songs become more authentic and capture that moment rather than having to encompass all seasons of life.
What advice do you have for aspiring musicians?
Trust your gut and go for it. Believe enough in yourself to break past every social, physical, and personal barrier. You have got this.