“While there’s a range of grief that comes with parents divorcing, ‘Friend of the Family’ highlights my anger stage. I have minimized my pain so many times before, and this was eating me alive, so I really gave it the space to be heard… My producer, Ella Boh, is the one who really convinced me to honor my story by releasing the song.”
Life is, among other things, about facing challenges and navigating difficult emotions. While navigating happy moments presents little difficulty, managing challenging times that make you doubt, that shake you, is the true hurdle. The Los Angeles based artist Liv Miraldi uses her lyrics and music as a means to navigate the turbulent waters of personal obstacles. Her latest release, “Friend of the Family“, captures the essence of facing and embracing the raw, unfiltered emotions that come with life’s trials.
In our interview, we talk about the therapeutic nature of songwriting, the impact of family dynamics on personal growth, and the evolving perception of love and fame.
photography by Ryan Talerico
Liv, it’s a pleasure speaking with you! How are you doing, and where are you currently? (smiles)
Hi! I’m in Los Angeles, California right now. Thank you so much for having me!
You’ve mentioned that “Friend of the Family” was a topic you were afraid to talk about, which motivated you to write the song. Can you share the moment you decided to confront this fear through your music?
I was in a writing session with a producer named Michael Blum and artist/writer OSTON. We spent the first hour just catching up and talking about our lives. Somehow we got on the topic of family. I really just opened up to them about what I was going through. I wasn’t even planning on writing for my artist project that day, but they asked if I’d be willing to. A lot of the lyrics were taken from real conversations we had in the writing room that day. Months later, I took the song to my producer, Ella Boh, who helped me polish the record. She’s the one that really convinced me to honor my story by releasing the song.
Many artists say that songwriting is a form of therapy. Did the process of writing the song offer you any personal healing or closure?
Yeah, absolutely. While there’s a range of grief that comes with parents divorcing, “Friend of the Family” highlights my anger stage. I have minimized my pain so many times before, and this was eating me alive, so I really gave it the space to be heard. I’ve been working on honoring my feelings when they show up, instead of suppressing them. I feel like this whole release is me letting go of that chapter, so I can feel lighter and move forward.
“I trust that each song will find its way to the people who need it most… I really believe there’s room for everyone.”
“Friend of the Family” deals with love in its more complex and painful forms. What does love mean to you?
Love has meant so many different things to me throughout my life. It used to mean letting someone into my world and giving them my time and attention. Since writing this song, I’ve gotten to a stage where it also means that, but in addition, it’s about giving people the grace to grow. It’s voicing the hard things and committing to working through difficulties. I have to believe it’s accepting one another despite our flaws and heavy heartbreaks.
Songs that touch on family matters can sometimes shift dynamics or open up new dialogues. Has the song changed your family’s bonds or communication in any way?
Definitely. I love my parents and my brother so much, I really didn’t want to add to anyone’s pain but I also didn’t want to abandon mine. When I decided to release the song, I talked to each member of my family separately and they each gave me their blessing. I think they recognized that writing about my life has always been how I heal and process my emotions. It’s a sensitive topic for everyone, but it also inspired some really beautiful conversations. In a weird way, it has brought us closer. I’m not sure I would’ve had the courage to release the song, if they hadn’t been so supportive.
Have you ever received any feedback from fans or listeners that has particularly moved you or surprised you?
I’ve been the most surprised by how many people have commented that they relate deeply to this song, or that they’ve had a friend who went through something similar. I wouldn’t wish it on anyone, but that feedback definitely made me feel less alone.
“Love has meant so many different things to me throughout my life… Since writing this song, I’ve gotten to a stage where it also means that, but in addition, it’s about giving people the grace to grow.”
Moving to Los Angeles is a big step for many artists. How has living in LA influenced your music career?
LA has given me so many opportunities I never could have imagined. I’ve gotten to work with some of my childhood idols, some of the most talented creatives from every corner of the world, and really hone my craft. There are so many different cultures here with rich influences that bleed into the studio, and the music is better for it. As a songwriter, I’ve gotten to write for other artists in a variety of genres from Kpop, R&B, alternative, electronic, folk, glittery pop, etc. I don’t know that I’d be exposed to that kind of diversity anywhere else. There’s no shortage of new experiences out here.
And what do you love most about LA?
The cultures! The thrifting! The food! I can’t choose one thing. Each corner of LA is so diverse, I’m always discovering new things. This year I’ve made it my mission to go on the hunt for the best coffee shop in the city. It’s been so fun to discover new areas of the city. Also, the nature is incredible. We have mountains, beaches, and tons of great hikes. I’m never bored!
In a world where new music is released daily, does the constant influx of songs concern you, or do you prioritize your own definition of success over competing with the ever-growing catalog of music?
Great question. I try not to focus on how difficult it is to cut through the noise. I trust that each song will find its way to the people who need it most. I suppose I’m a bit woo-woo, but I do believe if you put in the work, have talent, and stay consistent, it will bring success. Sometimes in the most unexpected ways. I really believe there’s room for everyone.
“I think the younger generations are more accepting of all body types and ages. In some ways, social media normalizes famous people to the public.”
In the age of social media, where personal stories are often publicly shared, how do you think the perception of fame has changed?
I feel like there are so many pros and cons to being a public figure in this day and age. While people have so much (sometimes too much) access to each other, there’s also more control over what we allow others to see. When I was growing up in the 2000s, you had to look a certain way and be super young to be successful. I think the younger generations are more accepting of all body types and ages. In some ways, social media normalizes famous people to the public.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
I’d love to be living on an island, making music, being a badass businesswoman, connecting with people, and creating as much as possible. I want to keep doing this as long as I can.
Thank you so much for your time!
Thank you for having me! <3
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