INTERVIEW: Brooklyn Doran Carries On With "Heavy Hurt"
Brooklyn Doran shares her views on songwriting and what it means to be out as an artist as she spills out "Heavy Hurt" on her new single.
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Brooklyn Doran (she/her) is a queer singer-songwriter originally from the heart of Northwestern Ontario, and has been a staple of the Toronto folk scene for over ten years. Doran’s unique sound weaves song and storytelling; the polarity between her music and personality create a harmonious blend of wit and humor contrasted by vulnerable lyricism and haunting melody. With her latest release, the bass-forward "Heavy Hurt," Doran creates a meditative and intense portal into grief. In our interview, Doran shares her views on songwriting and what it means to be out as an artist.
Do you have any songwriting tips you can share?
Serve the song. Instead of chasing a specific sound, listen to what the song needs to say.
Who would you love to collaborate with? Why?
I would love to be in a writers room with Linda Perry. She's penned some of the best music to come out of this era of music.
Do you have any go-to albums to listen to in the van?
Long van trips are perfect for listening to something front to back. The last record I listened to in full in the van was Momma's 2022 record "Household Name"
What are some of the best venues you've played? Why?
I love touring with Cancer Bats. Being on the road with them has allowed me to check off some crazy bucket list venues, like a sold out show at The Opera House in Toronto, crazy festivals like Slam Dunk in the UK and Hellfest in France. The crowds are always so lovely and cool.
How have you healed or grown your relationship to country music/Americana?
As a whole I haven't, but I've found pockets of spaces that are kind and accepting and I think that is so important.
How do you feel your coming out journey plays into your music?
I was writing songs about marrying women long before I publicly came out. I feel like my approach to writing music is the same, although now there's less need to cloak the lyrics in vagueness to seem straight.
How do you feel your queer identity ties into your performance style or music?
I want to hear music that reflects my experience, and writing something from a decidedly wlw standpoint helps listeners see themselves reflected in the songwriting and lyrics.
