Mira Housey
On “hold the applause” & The Fear of Vulnerability
By Lulu Moore
WIMITLA Q&A
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WIMITLA Q&A 〰️
Mira Housey, Metro-Detroit-born singer-songwriter and producer dropped her latest pop single “hold the applause” on May 26th. The independent artist challenged herself to write a song in 20-minutes, incorporating three random words selected by her friend. Posting the process on TikTok, Mira wrote, composed, and produced the dynamic track based on the words ‘pillow’, ‘rock’, and ‘curtain’. A shattered plate and +6 million views later, “hold the applause” is a delightfully catchy exploration into the fear of vulnerability onset by relationships. Setting the tone for her upcoming EP, Mira’s jazzy melodies and dynamic bass lines amplify her powerful falsetto as she expresses the passionate lessons she’s learned through heartache.
Knowing she wanted to pursue music for most of her life, Housey began competing in classical piano at 7-years-old. Growing up, she developed songwriting skills and taught herself how to produce. As a freshman, Mira formed a band with her friends at the University of Michigan, and won the state annual battle of the bands three years in a row. After graduating with a degree in Sound Technology and Business, we proudly welcome Mira to L.A.!
Mira talks to us about her transition to LA, confidence as a female producer in a male-dominated industry, the power of art, and more.
Mira! Thank you so much for taking the time to speak with us. We’re so excited for the upcoming release of your latest single “hold the applause”— congratulations! You’ve shared the song’s production process on your socials, but what is the story behind the lyrics? What moments helped inspire your all-too-relatable narrative track?
Thank you so much for having me! I’m really excited about this song. “hold the applause” came from a place of questioning my vulnerability with someone. I really value honesty, and it’s important for me to feel comfortable around those closest to me. Lyrically, the song turned into a projection of my fears with those kinds of close relationships.
Seeing as you are a vocalist, instrumentalist, producer, and songwriter, what does your multifaceted music journey look like? Can you walk us through when & where you started making music, and how you got to where you are today?
My introduction to music came from classical piano. When I was little, I began entering piano competitions and heavily studying music theory. As I got older, I started applying my knowledge of theory to my songwriting. As a result, my writing has always been very instinctual. In high school, I began writing songs to help my friends get through tough situations, and soon I was teaching myself how to record and produce them in my bedroom. Around that time I also picked up the guitar.
What did you study at the University of Michigan? What role did music play in your college experience?
I studied sound technology and minored in business. Music was a huge part of my college experience. My friends and I started a band when we were freshmen and eventually it grew into a music collective. We played shows every week and would throw release parties, create music videos, and have merch drops. The shows got so big that we kept having to find larger venues to fit everyone! It was one of the best experiences of my life.
When did you decide that you wanted to pursue music as a career? Were your friends and family supportive?
I’ve known music was my path since before I can remember! I used to run to our piano in the living room as a child and just play random notes. My parents put me in piano lessons when I was little and I became obsessed. I think they always just kind of knew from that point on. My family is my biggest support system and I am so thankful for them.
Which artists inspire you, and why?
I think Max Martin is a genius. I would love to work with him someday. I also really like Ariana Grande, Taylor Swift, and Julia Michaels. They all have such different ways of approaching songwriting, which I find very inspiring.
You are so open about your creative process on your social media. Why do you think it’s important that your fans see your music-making process?
I think it’s really important for me to show the process because I want others to feel like they can do it too. Music can be such a gate-kept industry, and I never want my journey to feel that way for those who are watching. I want to inspire young people to create what they’re passionate about. Growing up, my songwriting and production were very internal. I didn’t know anyone else doing what I was doing. That is why I am so open about the process because I wish I had more guidance when I was younger.
While it’s slowly evolving, music production has been (and continues to be) a largely male-dominated sector within the industry. What has your experience as a female producer looked like? Do you have any advice or words of encouragement for women who are interested in learning?
Less than 4% of producers on the Hot 100 List last year were women. That is not a coincidence. At every single recording studio I’ve ever worked at, I was one of the only women, if not the only one. It took a lot of confidence in my own abilities to break through that barrier. Even now, one of the first questions people ask me is “who produced this?” fully expecting the answer not to be “me.” As a female producer, I had to work a lot harder than those around me to achieve the same goals. To any woman out there reading this, I want you to know that despite the inequalities of our industry, we will still make waves and create music that influences and inspires others. If your opinion isn’t being heard, be louder. If you’ve become accustomed to sitting in the shadows (I know I did at one point), step out of them. Don’t let the norm determine how you conduct yourself. Women deserve more representation in the music industry, and together we can make that change happen.
Credit: @mirahousey Instagram
Could you share some of the benefits of being an independent artist, and then walk us through some of the more challenging aspects?
I think one benefit of being independent is having control over the content I create. For me, there is no one to answer to. However, this can also be a challenge because sometimes it’s really helpful to have a second pair of eyes and ears on new ideas.
How did moving to L.A. after college influence your career and your personal growth? What are some of the lessons you learned along the way?
I had never experienced anything like LA before. I was immediately surrounded by some of the best artists in the world, and it was so inspiring to see their workflow. I am still learning, but a big lesson for me was to remember to be patient, stay consistent, and trust my gut.
Why are the arts important, and what does being a successful artist mean to you?
The arts are important to me because I believe they provide relief and validation to those who need a place to be vulnerable. My favorite thing in the world is receiving messages from people who used my music to get through hard times. I always want to provide that escape. To me, being successful means using my talents for positive change.
Who do you owe your biggest thanks to, and why?
My family. They are my biggest supporters and the biggest reason I strive to be successful.
Lastly, what can fans expect from you in 2022?
Lots of new music, new videos & fun series on creating songs!