Interview by Carol Wright | Photographer: Cibelle Levi
Meg Donnelly is a chameleon on screen, playing everything from a singing-dancing half-human/half-alien in Zombies to a hardened hunter in The Winchesters. Now, she is reintroducing herself as a musician, and if her single “Title” is to be any indication, this next chapter will surely be a vibe. Donnelly talked to NYOTA about finding her voice, having a strong support system, and being inspired by musicians from New York and New Jersey.
You started doing musical theater at a young age. Were your parents initially enthusiastic about your interest in performing, or did you push them to let you participate in performing arts programs?
My parents have always been so supportive of my love of performing. Initially, they just wanted me to have an extracurricular activity that I loved to do. As it turned into this whole professional journey, I was definitely the driving force. As a kid, they always told me that the moment I stopped having fun, I could walk away. I love them so much!
The East Coast has a rich art history. Growing up there, were you inspired by the performers who came out of New Jersey and New York?
Oh wow… there’s way too many. To name only a few from NY: A Tribe Called Quest, Billy Joel, Luther Vandross; and from NJ: Whitney Houston, Frank Sinatra, Bruce Springsteen, Lauryn Hill, Sugar Hill Gang. NY and NJ are so iconic!
You are now four movies into the Zombies franchise, which is incredible. What have you learned about yourself as a person and performer through working on these films?
These movies have shaped me into the performer and person I am today. On the first Zombies movie, I had just turned 16 and now on Zombies 4, I just turned 24. So much life has happened. On Zombies 4 specifically, I think being one of the older cast really taught me a lot. I felt like I got to relive all my amazing memories through the incredible new young cast. I wanted to be a good role model for them and it really helped me grow as I learned so much from them as well.
You’ve been part of many unique projects, such as Zombies, The Winchesters, and Justice League: Crisis on Infinite Earths. Is there a particular movie or television genre you want to explore for your next acting project?
I would love to explore more coming of age or romcom type movies. Most of my favorite movies are in either realm. I would love to see them come back. Also, any musical movie… I’m there!
With “Title,” you’ve reintroduced yourself as a musician since coming out with your album Trust five years ago. Does this music feel more authentic to who you are as a musician?
Yes it does! I think five years ago I hadn’t found my voice yet. I couldn’t speak up for what I wanted when it came to my music, so it wasn’t 100% me. I’m so grateful I’ve had this time to just experiment and fail and try again. I definitely have a clear vision of who I want to be as a musician and I’m beyond excited to keep growing and share it with the world!!!!! eeeeeee!!!
“Title” has a fun accompanying music video. How creatively involved were you regarding the concept, choreography, and other details?
Omg, thank you! Starting out this new chapter of my authentic music, I wanted to make sure it was rooted in my NY/NJ upbringing. My biggest inspiration was the “Electric Relaxation” video by A Tribe Called Quest where they are going about their day in the city. I really wanted to incorporate a huge dance element as well. Max Pham, the choreographer, really helped with everything and made the video come together. It was such a fun day of just running around the city and shooting as much as we could. I’ll never forget it.
Next month, you’re coming out with your single “by my heart.” What was the writing process like for that song, considering it’s very vulnerable and introspective?
I have always wanted to write a song like “by my heart” where I’m just completely vulnerable. I had been listening to “People” by Libianca for hours on end and that gave me a lot of inspiration. I had been going through an extremely tough year, and Kaydence, who wrote this song with me, is incredible and magical at creating concepts and writing lyrics. She and I were really going through it at the same time, which ultimately led to this song. Recording it was really emotional, definitely tears were shed. It was very therapeutic. I’m reeeeeeally hoping that people can relate to it as well.
Who are some current musicians that motivate you to continue honing your craft?
There are so many past/present musicians that inspire me, I feel like I’m constantly taking inspiration from everywhere. Victoria Monet is a current performer who I admire very much. Her stage presence, concepts, dancing and vocals are just out of this world. Her work ethic and humility really inspires me to keep going. I also saw Jungle recently, and I was really blown away that nobody in the audience was on their phone. Everyone was present, just dancing to the music. I really hope to create an environment like that with my music one day.
Over the past six years, your life has changed drastically. How do you keep yourself feeling grounded and settled amongst the craziness?
Oh goodness… I am still trying to figure that out. I think having a small group of core people that I love, and trust is what has been keeping me going. Having a strong foundation and support system is the most important thing in life, but especially in this business. I also love journaling and writing all of my spiraling, overthinking thoughts down during the course of my day. It helps so much to let it all out and organize my thoughts.
What advice do you have for aspiring singers?
I would say to not compare yourself to anybody else. Just continue to understand your voice and accentuate what makes your art and your singing you. I feel like I’ve spent way too much time comparing myself and thinking my voice wasn’t good enough, but don’t waste your time on that. If you have fun and it’s something you love, just go for it. You have nothing to lose.
This story first ran in Issue 37: The Empowerment Issue. Read more from the issue here.
