Since the release of her debut EP, Learning to Exist, in 2021, Madisyn Gifford has given her fans inside details about what it’s like to go from complicated teenager to more established young adult. Her music has always explored the complexities of love and loss, highlighting the way that both have filled her with fear, happiness, and everything in between. On her previous albums, I hate ur guts and Sleeping on the Ceiling, she continued to explore these narratives while also sharing the lessons she has picked up along the way, shaping her into the accomplished artist we see today. So far in her blossoming career, Madisyn has performed on various networks across the nation, has been featured in publications like Rolling Stone and EARMILK, and has amassed millions of streams across all major platforms. Her ever-expanding fanbase undoubtedly relate to the ups and downs she mentions in her songs, whether it’s buying into various forms of self-sabotage (as she sings on “Hospital Beds”) or trying to accept your flaws (as she shares on “Prettiest Bitch”). As she takes another step forward in her career, per the release of her new single “Seventeen,” we caught up with Madisyn to learn more about what’s ahead.
Hi, Madisyn! I hope your day has been going well. How are you doing?
Hi! Thank you so much for having me here. My day is going great, I’m currently in Mexico celebrating one of my best friend’s weddings!
Congratulations on your new single “Seventeen.” It’s a little different from what your fans are used to, as it leans more in a folk-oriented direction. What was the inspiration behind this sound?
I have always mostly listened to folk music, and this is a genre I have always wanted to lean into; so, I think this is honestly the sound that feels the most genuine to me as an artist, especially at this phase in my life!
I feel like this folk-leaning sound suits you, and it also works great with the lyrics on “Seventeen.” Had you been saving this sound specifically for this song, or was it more you tried it out with this and found that it worked out well?
Funnily enough, this is actually one of the last songs I wrote for my upcoming record, but it came out very organically! I wrote it one afternoon in March on my guitar.
Lyrically, “Seventeen” kind of focuses on the drama, the hesitation, and the infatuation that can come from feeling love or experiencing a relationship for the first time. What messages or lyrics would you want listeners to take from this song?
I guess the message I was trying to get across is how embarrassing and scary romantic feelings can be especially after experiencing romantic trauma in the past. More than anything, I just hope that anyone experiencing similar feelings will feel seen when listening to it!
Was this written about anyone in particular?
Yes! Not disclosing who though, hahaha
If you could go back and give advice to 17-year-old Madisyn, what would you say?
Follow your gut and don’t go with the herd. Also, getting blackout drunk at parties is not cool. Actually, it’s quite the opposite!
I read that “Seventeen” is the first new single from your upcoming album. Could you give us any details about this album?
I’m so excited about this next record! It is definitely more folk-leaning than any of my past projects and also features a lot more organic instrumental elements. It is also definitely the happiest record I have ever made, which I am stoked to say!
What can fans expect from your next single?
It’s a super fun, more beach rock-leaning track, but still with some folk elements. I’m stoked on it!
What are you most excited for in this next phase of your career?
I’m very excited to be making and releasing music that feels so true to who I am in this time of my life. I’m also so excited to perform these songs live!
Do you have any plans for the summer?
I’m currently in school, and then other than that, I will probably be spending my time solely at church and the beach!
Thanks so much, Madisyn. Do you have any final comments or anything else to add?
Nothing in particular! Thank you so much for having me, it’s an honor!
You can listen to “Seventeen” on platforms like Apple Music, SoundCloud, and Spotify.
Keep up with Madisyn Gifford: Instagram // Facebook // X // TikTok // YouTube
