We’re looking forward to introducing you to MOR. Check out our conversation below.
Hi MOR, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
I’ve been getting into beach volleyball lately, which has been really fun. Before last year I had never played a single game, but I wanted to spend more time outside, meet new people, and do something active that didn’t feel like a workout. Since I live in West LA, it also just made sense to take advantage of the beach more. I’m definitely not amazing at it, but learning and just having fun with it has been bringing me a lot of joy.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, my name is Brienne, and my artist name is MOR. I am a singer/songwriter, and my music blends alternative R&B, soul, and indie singer-songwriter influences. I strive to write honest, introspective lyrics that inspire connection – both with yourself and with others. I always try to write from a place that feels true to me, and I think that’s what makes music resonate. Something unique about my journey is that I’ve always balanced music alongside a full-time job or school. Not enough people talk about what it’s like to juggle a career while pursuing your passion, and I think we should normalize it – it doesn’t mean you’ve failed. We’re not all afforded the same resources, luck, and opportunities – it just means you can create and carve your own path. That hasn’t always made the road easy, but it’s given me the freedom to create the kind of music I want without comprising my integrity and my truth.
I’ve never wanted to chase a check with my songs – I’m chasing authenticity and connection, which has helped keep me grounded and reminding me on why I make music in first place.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
As a child I used to believe I shouldn’t take up space, that any display of confidence was arrogant and I believed I was more likable if I stayed in the background. I think family and culture taught me these things, and this is the case for a lot of young girls. I was fearful of what others thought of me, not consciously, but in hindsight I now know that I was. Now, I like to think I understand myself better, I give myself more grace, and I continue to work on taking up more space…respectfully of course;)
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Many times. The music industry isn’t for the faint of heart. It’s hard not to play the comparison game or measure success only in cash and industry accolades. Those things are great – and getting them regularly would certainly help with longevity in this career – but they’ve also bogged me down and made me question why I keep going.
Then something happens. I take a break, maybe step back from social media, try a new hobby, and in that space, something always draws me back. Often it’s something simple – a song lyric or an idea that pops into my head. I’ll sit down, shut out all the noise and doubt, and just write. And then I have a song that reminds me: “Ahh there she is.”
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
The music industry is obsessed with youth. I was told I was “getting up there” and that I “better hurry and make it” when I was just 19. And the wild part is, I’ve heard this throughout my entire career since then. What’s even crazier is that this obsession isn’t just for new artists trying to break in – it extends to songwriters and producers – the people behind the scenes. I went to a writing camp not too long ago where an A&R from a major label was asked if age matters when considering songwriters and producers, and he said yes! I was shocked. As if talent peaks and dies before 25 – It’s ridiculous and completely untrue. If anything, songwriting improves with life experience and practice. Plus, 12-22-year olds aren’t the only people who listen to music, nor are they the only ones who deserve representation.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. When do you feel most at peace?
When I am with my family and friends or in the morning, time spent with myself, before I start my day, with a good book or a journal or doing what ever feels good in the moment.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: http://instagram.com/she_is_mor/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sheismor
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/MORsheisMOR
- Other: https://linktr.ee/she_is_MOR
Image Credits
Photographer: Paige Strabala
