Maggie Cubillos has the sweetest voice, and her music is filled with the kind of raw vulnerability that you can't help. but fall for. Her new song "Slow Motion" details a lengthy healing process and feels almost like a meditation, calming and soothing while reminding you to keep going on your journey. We talked to Maggie about what's been inspiring her and how she stays motivated.
How did you get started in music?
Maggie: I've been singing since I could talk, so music has always been a huge part of my life. My parents are huge music lovers too, and that really inspired me to keep pursuing it. I started writing songs about a year and a half ago, and since then, I've really started to find my voice as an artist and have fallen in love with the writing process and expressing my feelings through my music.
Tell me about your song "Slow Motion" What's the story behind it?
Maggie: "Slow Motion" is about being scared to move on and realizing that healing isn't linear. I wrote this at a time when I was frustrated that certain things that had happened to me were still bothering me, but I had to realize that growth takes time. Every day is different, and some days I feel better about things than others and if I'm having a bad day, that doesn't mean I'm not moving forward.
What has been inspiring you lately?
Maggie: I'm currently home from school for the summer, and I've been taking a lot of inspiration from being back where I grew up after being away. I've grown a lot since going to college, and I love coming home, but there are always so many different emotions coming back to a place with so many memories. It's been fun sorting through those emotions and writing about them.
What has been one of the biggest challenges for you as an artist?
Maggie: The biggest challenge I've faced is believing in myself. It's so easy with social media to compare yourself to others, but I remind myself that I am on my own path and have my own timeline. If I stay true to myself and keep doing what I'm doing, I know in the long run, I will succeed.
What keeps you motivated?
Maggie: Writing new music keeps me motivated! I find the more I create, the more excited I become to share my new songs with others. When I write a song I love, I'm just reminded why I love what I do in the first place and get excited to keep growing as an artist.
What songs are on your rotation right now?
Maggie: I've been really loving Tori Kelly's new EP "tori"! I've been a fan of hers for years and I really love what she did with this latest record.
What is your best piece of advice for young women?
Maggie: Don't be afraid to stand up for yourself and share your voice! I know, especially as musicians in a male-dominated industry, it's easy to feel like you don't have a voice, but you shouldn't let people walk all over you. Confidence is everything, so if you know what you want, then go for it.
What's next for you?
Maggie: I have one more show in LA at The Viper Room Acoustic Lounge on August 17th before I head back to Boston for school. I plan to release more music within the next few months while also playing more shows too!
Keep up with Maggie on Spotify and Instagram.
Emily Treadgold
