The Girl Next Door

© Leigha Hodnet

Singer / songwriter Meiko.

Singer-songwriter Meiko was born and raised in Georgia, and made the move to Los Angeles to make it big in the world of indie pop. And then she did. In 2007, Meiko released a self-titled album on her own label Lucky Ear Music; a year later, she inked a deal with Myspace Records. Since then, Meiko has been performing at intimate venues such as Hotel Cafe, and touring relentlessly with singer-songwriter pals Joe Purdy and Sarah Bareilles. This fall, Meiko will head out on tour with Jewel. I recently had a chance to sit down with Meiko and talk to talk about all that and more.

Meiko, you started your own indie record label Lucky Ear Music back in 2007. Tell us a little bit about how that has been going for you and what you do to balance that endeavor while maintaining your career as a musician?

I started Lucky Ear as a way to keep some say in the decisions that were made in my career when I teamed up with a major label. I knew that if I did the deal in partnership with my own indie label, I could help make decisions and bring new ideas to the table. That was really important to me. And because I was a little scared of signing a record deal in the first place, it was a way to still keep things indie-minded, and for the most part, still stay in charge.

You are a regular performer at the LA-based Hotel Cafe. The artists that perform there regularly are known to have a very close-knit circle of friends with each other. How did that come into play when you moved to Los Angeles from Georgia? Do you have any memorable experiences from your nights there that you could share with us?

I found out about the Hotel Cafe through word of mouth, like everyone does, really. I knew that it was the spot to play and it was my goal to get my foot in the door there. Working there helped me become part of "the circle" more so than just playing there. I got to know and became friends with the owners, and ended up feeling at home when I was there. The Hotel Cafe treated me like family when I was a little lost puppy, and everyone there was super-encouraging, music-wise. My most memorable experiences center around meeting up with everyone after the venue had closed for the night, and sitting around playing new songs with people like Jim Bianco, Cary Brothers, Percy Haverstein, and Buddy (to name a few). I miss those days.

For your upcoming tour in October/November of 2009, you will be opening for Jewel - who is a very talented and established singer/songwriter herself. How does that make you feel?

I am so excited! I've always respected her as an artist and I feel honored to be a part of the tour.

What are your expectations for that tour?

The only thing I'm expecting is a huge audience (which I'm really excited about). It's always fun for me to play to people who might not have a clue who I am. It's almost like I'm on a game show or something. I love meeting new crowds, and I love those first few
moments of us getting to know each other when I'm on stage.

What inspires you in this day and age?

I'm inspired by everything I see or do. I write so much about first-hand experiences, and I'm constantly amazed at what life brings to the table. It's definitely enough material for lots of records.

With all the controversy going on in our society, lately what keeps you grounded?

Being nice and honest. Trying to do my part. Whether it's recycling, or helping the elderly with their groceries, or just smiling at people when I pass them on the street. I think in a little way it makes a difference, and it makes me sleep better at night knowing that I'm not a malicious person.

You've accomplished so much since 2007, what are you most proud of so far?

I'm really proud that I can tour for a living. I always dreamed of seeing the world, and its finally happening! Yay!

And what is the next biggest goal you are working toward?

Making a new record! I'm so excited about putting another body of work together. It's such a rewarding feeling to release new stuff!

So you posted a blog about a Strip-O-Gram... how did it go?!

Haha! It wasn't a stripper after all!! I was nervous about the whole thing, because I knew my friend was sending me something to "make me feel better" - I guess 'stripper' was where my mind went. It ended up being groceries.

You are very active and open/honest in your Myspace blog. How does maintaining this connection with your fans shape you as a musician?

For me, that's what being a musician is all about. Connecting with people - I love it. Its why I do this. Otherwise I'd be on my back porch playing for myself and my dog.

Are there any artists breaking in the music scene right now that you are excited about?

Yes! I'm loving this up and coming artist named Laura Jansen! She is such a great writer with fun songs. She reminds me a little of Frente! That was one of my favorite bands growing up.

Thanks so much for your time Meiko! Good luck on your upcoming tour and keep up the amazing work.

Thank you! Stuff like this is always fun for me!