Front-woman Bridget Lyons aka Lyons & Co, is truly a self-made success story. Having previously released two acclaimed albums under her name and performed alongside renowned musicians from famed bluegrass artists to R&B legends like Brandy Norwood, Lyons has firmly established herself as a versatile and powerful presence in the music world.
In her latest track, 'Look Like Now', Lyons brilliantly combines some of her favourite elements of songwriting: playful lyricism, intricate storytelling, complex emotions, and harmonies that resonate deeply with listeners. The song showcases Lyons' ability to weave together these components into a seamless and captivating musical experience.
With this release, Lyons not only honours her musical roots but also pushes the boundaries of her artistry, delivering a song that is sure to captivate both longtime fans and new listeners alike. We sat down with Bridget to learn more about her craft, the new music and much, much more, exclusively for FLEX!
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Hey Bridget, welcome to FLEX! Can you tell us more about your musical upbringing? How did growing up with the Delta blues and Chicago R&B influence your sound?
My dad was a slide, blues guitarist. In my formative years, I learned to play under his guidance.
What was it like learning to play the guitar from your dad? Do you have any specific memories of that time?
Yes, he was a good teacher, kind and patient. He focused a lot on form, and how I was holding my guitar, keeping my elbow out. Then he would play with me for hours, helping me build the calluses on my fingertips.
How would you describe the evolution of your music across your two albums?
My music has always been heavily influenced by Southern rock and R&B. Like most people, I have experienced a range of emotions and growth over the years and I think that has reflected in my song writing and ability to produce.
Your new single "Look Like Now' combines playful lyricism with storytelling and harmonies. Can you walk us through your songwriting process for this track?
Like many songs on the album, this collection says the quiet parts loud by Speaking plainly about affairs, betrayal, addiction etc. we were not speaking in hushed tones and whispers on any tracks and in a way by telling these (true) stories I’ve been able to bring light to topics that otherwise felt shameful. By saying it out loud, allowing myself to acknowledge “you cheated” or “you let me down” it’s a way to become emancipated by the truth. Look Like Now is a freedom song.
What was the recording and writing process like?
Like most of my songs, the writing process comes quickly. Recording was exceptionally fun, I was with Andrew Bair of Dead Format Records (he’s also the keys player for Paul Cauthen) Jake Lynn (Wyatt Flores) Johnny Mullenax, Mark Lavengood (Billy Strings) and we brought in Allie Kral for fiddle (Yonder Mountain String Band, Allie and the Night Krals) Making the album was incredible topped only by my genuine love for the contributors. They are some of my absolute favourite people. Working is nice but working on a project that means so much to me with people I adore is the best feeling on the planet.
As a self-made artist, what have been some of the biggest challenges you've faced in your career, and how have you overcome them?
Finding the right team, hands down. The industry is always changing and there are so many perspectives to consider along the way in understanding “how” to work. Continuing to write and record when I didn’t have any other recourse has been the most helpful way to overcome challenges. Being relentless and tenacious in sharing my vision and being brave in my passion and creating space for intimacy and collaboration with the band has elevated every song and I can only hope we will continue to create pieces that I am excited to share.
And finally - What are your plans for the future? Are there any upcoming projects or collaborations you're excited about?
We have shows scheduled through the summer including Backlot Bash in Chicago and Smiling acres Music Festival in Trufont Mi, as well as Frederick Meijers Gardens also in Michigan. Our album release party is in Tulsa at the colony July 24th.
We have studio time slotted in late August to record the B sides of this album which we are all super excited to record and I think do a vinyl release.
Stream 'Look Like Now' here:
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