By Lucy Fitzgerald 
Hey! Taylor-Rae, congratulations on the release of your new EP “Honest.” Can you share what inspired the title and how it reflects the themes explored across the tracks?
A: Thank you so much! The title ‘Honest’ is taken from the title track of the EP. The song ‘Honest’ dives into the moments of second guessing and overthinking, something I am very good at. Throughout the release of this project I have had a lot of moments where I questioned if I was on the right path, so it felt fitting to cap it off with “Honest”.
What was your songwriting process like for this EP, particularly for the power-ballad “Are You Still Up” that debuted at #3 on the iTunes Country Chart?
A: Writing for the project was a great experience. I wasn’t writing with any specific subject lines or vibes, I just wanted to write what felt right at the time to come out with what felt the most authentic. I was able to write with some of my closest friends on a few of these songs and that made it really special!
You’ve described the creation of “Honest” as a journey of coming into your own as an artist. Could you elaborate on some specific experiences or moments that were pivotal in this process?
A: There have been so many moments throughout the release of the EP, but I feel like one of the turning points was when I released “Are You Still Up”. That was the moment that everything started rolling on streaming and it was really exciting to be a part of. Then, following it up with “If This Is Love” opened my world up. Seeing a song like that find success at radio and streaming was so validating as an artist.
The standout track “Honest” caps off this project. What makes this song stand out to you personally, and why did you choose it to represent the EP?
A: Honest is a song that just kind of happened. I was in a moment of feeling overwhelmed and it pretty much wrote itself. It’s such a truthful song for me and I felt like it was how the EP was meant to be wrapped up. Really just airing out who I am and putting a bow on this era of music.
How have your roots in Alberta and your experiences in Nashville shaped your musical style and influenced the songs on this EP?
A: Hugely. I’ve been surrounded by music my entire life and I take a lot of inspiration from the songs I grew up with. In coming down to Nashville, I have definitely felt a shift in the way I write. I find I’ve learned to be more open and when you’re focused on music all day everyday it’s hard not to keep reaching to be better and better.
With over 4.4 million total career streams, how do you feel your growing audience has connected with your music, and what feedback have you received about “Honest” so far?
A: My music has had a great amount of streaming support and I have to thank the platforms for that. For the people that have shown up to shows the past summer and sang along, it has absolutely blown my mind. It feels a bit surreal that it’s not just my friends and family knowing the words, haha!
So far the feedback has been great! I really appreciate when an artist is transparent with their audience and so I wanted to take a page out of some of my favorite artists’ books and do the same. I’m really happy to have it out!
Reflecting on your recent awards, including Female Artist of the Year and Song of the Year for “If This Is Love,” how do these accolades impact your approach to music and your career aspirations?
A: I mean, winning my first awards is something I will never forget, that’s for sure. I think it keeps you moving forward. It’s that nod from your peers saying you’re on the right track and there’s something really special about that. It really just kept my fire burning.
You have some dynamic performances lined up, including returning to Boots & Hearts this summer. How do you prepare for these big events, and what can fans expect from your live shows this year?
A: I am SO excited for these shows! Fans can expect an energetic show. One of my favourite parts of this job is getting to sing and perform live, so we will be more than ready to get on stage come summer!
To prepare I really try to make sure we have the setlist right. My band and I pop on ZOOM calls since they’re out in Vancouver, to brainstorm how to make the show as great as we can. It’s really fun getting to collaborate with all of them.
With “Honest” marking a significant milestone in your career, what are your next steps? Are there any collaborations or new music genres you are exploring for your future projects?
A: Well, I am already back in the studio looking ahead to new music! Previously being in a soul choir, I absolutely fell in love with the genre, so I’m looking forward to bringing in a little bit more of that in this next batch of music!
Looking back at your journey so far and forward to your future goals, what advice would you give to emerging artists who aspire to follow a path similar to yours in the country music industry?
A: First I would say to have a good support system. There are so many ups and downs in this career that it’s important to have those people you can call on when you need to.
Second is to ask for advice. This industry is ever changing and there is never just one way to do things. Weigh your options and find what path is best for YOU. Lean on the other people in the industry who have already been through the learning curves.
Listening to songs so you don’t have to! Just kidding :D, you totally should. Music blogger by day, nurse by night