Rising Queer Pop Icon Valeree Releases Ambitious Concept Album
Pittsburgh native Megan Mortensen, better known as Valeree, is a Queer artist ready to make us groove with her infectious blend of jazzy pop and R&B. Her music combines emotional depth with a sardonic tone, delivering hard-hitting messages about the struggles and realities of being a woman in this world.
Bursting onto the music scene with her debut EP, "Masochist," in 2020, she quickly garnered several award nominations. Her follow-up project, "it’s fine, i’m fine," featured tracks that gained popularity on TikTok, showcasing her talent for blending catchy melodies with meaningful themes.
Valeree's seemingly sour disposition in her songwriting masks a profound understanding of pain and healing, drawn from her own challenging experiences. She candidly addresses issues such as substance abuse, mental health struggles, and her identity in a society that often fosters discomfort and otherness. Her 2024 release, "Interrupted," is her most ambitious work to date—a highly anticipated concept album that chronicles her journey of personal growth amid a battle with inner demons and a quest for meaning and peace.
“‘Interrupted’ is a concept album. It is a collection of songs written over the course of several years that come together to tell a chronological story about PTSD, addiction, mental health hurdles, and more. This album explores my journey as a young woman with the aforementioned issues, going from a deeply wounded person who was completely closed off to others and her own emotions, to finally cracking the armor and beginning to learn to feel and be open again."
— Valeree
"Interrupted" opens with "Don't Wanna Grow Up," where Valeree's impressive vocal range and musical prowess shine as she expresses anxieties about an uncertain future filled with challenges. As the collection progresses, tracks like "Just One Night" and "Worth Remembering'' skillfully intertwine humor with serious themes, while songs such as "Bottle of Whiskey" and "Be Alone" explore profound emotional depths, showcasing her powerful vocals. Standout tracks like "The Table'' and "Good Days'' elevate the textures within her work, infusing the pop/R&B foundation with subtle jazz undertones, enhanced by exceptional drum backing that amplifies her dynamic voice.
Valeree's artistry not only entertains but also resonates deeply, inviting us to reflect on our own journeys and invest heavily in overcoming whatever we may be struggling with. Her feminist lens isn’t a calculated choice, but an organic outgrowth of her lived reality, making her music a raw and authentic reflection of her world. “Interrupted” is a pivotal album, not only in Valeree's life but also in her career. Its exceptional production and captivating sounds are sure to captivate a wide audience. Truly a remarkable and beautiful work.