Music Spotlight: Eowyn

Eowyn is a fiercely independent music artist. While other singers are more concerned with becoming "the next big thing" Eowyn's focus seems to be on making honest music that connects with her fans. Her latest album Silent Screams aspires to be an anthem for the brokenhearted with its emotionally charged lyrics and brazen vibe.

I was able to ask a few questions to the rocker who exudes a laid-back confidence and a bit of mystique.

1. How would you explain your style?

Well, musically I like to describe it as industrial rock. Industrial in the fact that there is a lot of unusual sounds, but rock because of the heavy electric riffs. As far as personally, I don't really know how to describe my style. I went to school for fashion and actually have a degree in it, so I love trying new things. I've been described as Goth because I like black hair and wear a lot of eyeliner, but that's not how I would describe myself.

2. Image is very important in our society and you have the rock star look covered. Do you ever find it challenging when people first meet you and they bring their preconceived notions of what you're supposed to be/act like?

It can be challenging at times. I think a lot of times people have a preconceived notion of what a Christian should look like, and it doesn't always include a nose ring and heavy eyeliner. My guys [band] have tattoos as well, so they also get a lot of looks. I dress and look the way I do because it's what makes me feel good about myself, it's just my personal style and I believe that when people really get to know me they'll see my love for God, not just the way I look.

3. What kind of responses do you get from fans about your music?
Since the album's release in April, there has been a great response. People seem to be having a lot of great things to say about the album, which I am so excited about. I personally am very happy with this album because it reflects everything I had prayed that it would.

4. Do you think that Christian radio is doing a good job of exposing their audiences to a diverse array of musical genres? If not, what would you like to see happen in the industry?

I am so thankful for Christian radio stations, especially my genre, Christian rock. To be honest, I wouldn't be where I am without them! I think there should be more of these stations because I believe there is a huge audience out there waiting to get the chance to hear Christian rock! My other thought is that I have noticed that there are a few stations that never play independents, and that is sad to me, because some bands/artists choose to stay independent. I think with the industry changing so drastically and independents being able to capture as many fans as the labels, and make high quality albums themselves, more stations should give independents a chance.

5. Your MySpace page says you have "a theatrical stage presence." Could you talk about your approach to performing?

I love approaching my concert as if it were a theatrical show or play. When I sing, I try to convey the passion in my lyrics through the way I move and facial expressions. I have been told over and over that people can really feel the emotion behind my songs as I sing. I wouldn't want it any other way.

6. What was it like working with producer Travis Wyrick (P.O.D., Pillar, Disciple) on "Silent Screams"?

He's amazing in both talent and personality. He had me laughing one minute and crying the next. He truly brought things out in me that I didn't even know was there. I left his studio with a new confidence in myself as a singer. I'll definitely try to use him again for my next album.

7. You've already collaborated with Rob Beckley of Pillar, who else would you like to hit the studios with?

I would love to work with Lacey from Flyleaf. I think it would be awesome to have two rock girls in a song. So many times you do collaborations with a girl and a guy singer and I think it would be unique to have two girls.

8. I read in another interview that you grew up listening to rap. Any chance of you rapping on your next album?

Haha...no, definitely not! I still like rap at times, but I personally, cannot rap.

9. You're still an independent artist, what would a record label have to offer in order to allure you to sign with them?

I have chosen to stay independent thus far because that is what God has led me to do, label offers have come, but as of now, it is not where I feel God is leading me. I have had three offers thus far, and with each my husband and I go to God, pray about what we should do, then do it, and wait for the outcome. On my current album, I had several investors step forward to help, so I would really want those investors paid off, before I moved forward with a label.

10. What advice would you give young women trying to start their own rock band?

Do what God tells them to do, when He tells them to do it. This industry has certain standards and timelines that are typically followed, but God doesn't work on anyone's timeline. Also, be confident in who God has made them to be.

11. Anything else you'd like to add?

If anyone reading this needs any prayer, they can write me on my MySpace site at www.myspace.com/eowynmusic

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Here's to hoping that she and Lacey get together and do a song together. That would be wicked sweet!

[photo credit Yeshua Designs for HM]