The idea for the Empty Town song came up during Magdalena Tul‘s bicycle trip for the last possible recording when the pandemic started to take over. To see an empty town on TV and to feel its atmosphere being in the centre of it are two totally different stories. Empty streets, bustling with life so far. It all made her want to capture the emotions in a song and a picture. Considering being locked at home, all Tul could do was to use the tools available and her son’s talent.
In this interview spotlight, I chat with Magdalena about Empty Town, challenges, technology and more.
Full Q&A along with links and music below.
Where are you from and what style of music do you create?
Originally I come from Poland, but since my journey in Open Mic UK last year I’ve been dividing my time between Warsaw and London. I’m going to spend more time here in the UK when it’s possible to fly again. I’m also working with a producer in New York, so I feel like I’m a musical citizen of the world. My style is defined by my vocals. I always wanted to be recognized by them. I really love mixing many different styles together so you can hear me in pop rock songs as well as in soulful ballads. I’m a fan of fusing heavy guitars with hip hop beats and symphonic orchestra, but deep in my heart I’m an old-school type of a musician.
What led you down this path of music and what motivates you to keep going?
Strong motivation came on its own after I discovered my passion for music and it became clear to me that I want to devote my life to it. I’m a fighter who never gives up. I could say that I don’t know where it came from, but I believe in destiny and God and the rest is just a matter of time. But there’s one condition, you have to believe and be ready to pay the price for your dreams and never give up, especially when it’s hard. All the hardships are just a test to check whether you’re ready or not.
How is this new release different than previous ones? Were you trying to accomplish anything specific?
‘Empty Town’ is a spontaneous response to this difficult time. I wanted to share all my deepest feelings with people. Music is a remedy and can heal our hearts. The second reason why this song is so special is that I recorded it with my 12 year old son. He co-composed, arranged, produced and mixed the song. It’s absolutely a home-made production.
Name one or two challenges you face as an indie musician in this over saturated, digital music age? How has technology helped you (since we know it does help)?
Oh, it’s a crazy time for music. I still remember old rules of the playing field and it may seem like it used to be easier because, as you said, market wasn’t as over saturated and each artist had this aura of mystery surrounding them. On the other hand, today everyone can be an artist and reach their own audience but you need to be multi-tasking, be your own producer, manager and everything else. It creates this need for you to compromise the time you’d otherwise spend on your craft in order to be more of a businessman. I’m not a big fan of it and I still can’t imagine Freddy Mercury showing his personal life on Instagram.
What was the last song you listened to?
Oh, actually it was one of my new songs I’ve been working on! I’m also looking into making a hip hop remix. As far as other artists are concerned, lately I’ve been listening mainly to Billie Eilish and Queen. Quite an explosive mixture I must say!
Which do you prefer? Vinyl? CDs? MP3s?
MP3s are my working format, but I really enjoy buying CDs. Nothing beats the chance to touch and smell a newly bought album. I always read the booklets as well! However, I think I love vinyl the most. I grew up listening to them and it’s my dream to release my next album on vinyl. I know my fans are waiting for it too.
How about this one…. Do you prefer Spotify? Apple Music? Bandcamp? Or something else? Why?
As an artist, I think using these platforms is very comfortable, you can find my music there too, but truth is that it kills music and artists. This is this dark side. You need to be really huge to sell a substantial amount of units there. Otherwise you can earn just enough to buy an afternoon coffee.
Where is the best place to connect with you online and discover more music?
You can look me up on YouTube, SoundCloud, Gigmit, BandCamp and any social media like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter. And of course my website magdalenatul.com. My music is also available on Spotify and other streaming services.
Anything else before we sign off?
Thank you for your time, I really appreciate it especially when I’m trying to reach a new audience in UK. It was always my dream to reach people all over the world and connect with them through music. It’s my mission and you’re helping me make this dream come true.
