“Music is a language, and we’re here to speak it,” say Aleeda Blu, the pop duo made up of twin sisters Megan and Erin O’Donnell. These identical twins have been inseparable since they were kids in Richmond, VA, harmonizing together like nobody’s business. Three years ago, they took a leap of faith and moved to Nashville, and that city’s energy has totally shaped their sound.
Aleeda Blu’s music is a mix of honest lyrics and catchy pop beats, all powered by the special connection only twins can have. Their songs are about being real and sharing their feelings, and their debut EP, Rewritten, is a perfect example of that. It’s about starting over, facing challenges, and finding the strength to change your story.
In our chat, Megan and Erin opened up about the importance of family, the ups and downs of being twins in the music industry, and the stories behind their new EP.
Photography by Ella Rose
Your name, Aleeda Blu, has a special connection to your mother and your shared blue eyes. How does family play a role in your music and career?
Family has always been extremely important to both of us. We are so blessed to have a supportive, loving family. Our parents have always inspired us to chase our dreams. We come from a family with other members who enjoy music, so it is always wonderful when we are all together.
“Rewritten” seems to be a very personal EP. Can you tell us more about the inspiration behind the EP’s title and how it relates to your own journey?
The inspiration behind our EP came from a place of starting over. We moved to Nashville three years ago and didn’t know anyone. We started our career here in Nashville navigating the music scene and understanding the business. We have looked back on the last three years of our musical journey and have seen so much growth and opportunity. Rewritten is us rewriting our story.
“Lay it Down” closes the EP with a powerful message about emotional openness. How important is it for you to use your music as a platform for emotional expression?
That is what music is about. It’s about reaching your audience on an emotional, authentic level. We are blessed to be able to share our experiences with our audience because music is a language and it deserves to be spoken.
“Being identical twins is such a special bond. We are definitely each other’s best friends, but also our toughest critics.”
Do you find that being twins makes it easier or harder to compromise on artistic decisions?
Being identical twins is such a special bond. We are definitely each other’s best friends, but also our toughest critics. We do collaborate regarding writing our songs, but also have a different way of expressing our emotions when writing a song.
And do you think the world views you differently because you’re twins, especially in the music industry?
I think we aren’t different from anyone else. We are twins, but share a love and passion for music just like other artists. I do think us being identical twins is very unique and allows us to use that uniqueness to showcase our musical talents.
If you had to describe the other in one word that captures their essence both as a person and as an artist, what would it be and why?
Megan: one word I would use to describe Megan is determined. Megan has always known exactly what she has wanted to do within our career. Her hard work and determination is unmatched.
Erin: one word I would use to describe Erin is strong. No matter what life throws at her she is quick to pick herself back up. She doesn’t take no for an answer and always has your best interest in mind.
Pop music is constantly evolving. How do you see Aleeda Blu fitting into the current pop landscape?
I see Aleeda Blu becoming its own entity in pop music. I think our group would add an amazing new sound to the pop world with our sibling harmonies and lyrical taste.
The most important thing in life is?
The most important thing in life is building lasting relationships and being happy. We always say that I don’t care what I am doing or where I am in life as long as I am happy. Having amazing people who love and support you is truly all that matters.
Follow Aleeda Blu for more:
www.instagram.com/aleedablu