Today we’d like to introduce you to Megan WREN
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I have loved music ever since I was a kid. I still remember the warmth of summer nights, my dad playing Toby Keith as we jammed in the car to classics like “Jack and Diane” and “Brown Eyed Girl.” Those songs created the soundtrack of my childhood in Cleveland, OH, where I even picked up the guitar at 12, though it didn’t stick.
In 2015, I moved to Southern California—not specifically to pursue music, but to seek a healthier lifestyle and new experiences outside my one-stop-light hometown. It wasn’t until the pandemic hit in 2020 that a lightbulb went off—I discovered a hidden talent for writing poetry. During that tumultuous time, poetry became my saving grace. Having recently navigated a stressful breakup and struggled to keep my business afloat, it felt like an old friend that understood me and offered the exact advice I needed.
Then, in December 2021, something magical happened. As I was writing a poem, it transformed into a melody I couldn’t stop singing. That song, “Heart Dance,” released under the name Megan Wren, marked my first foray into songwriting. With no formal training in singing, I decided to take a lesson to avoid hurting myself. My teacher and I quickly shifted to piano lessons so I could learn to put chords to my creations.
I took just three thirty-minute piano lessons before diving into self-teaching, and the songs began to flow. I knew immediately that songwriting was my calling. There had never been anything in my life that felt more like a resounding “YES!” than writing songs. Within four months, I found myself in LA, networking and seeking artists to collaborate with. I quickly learned that to write for others, I needed to perform my songs.
Mind you, I had taken just one small singing lesson, and I was by no means a professional. But I believed in my songs more than my fear of sounding bad, so I began singing at open mics. Through that process, I grew significantly, discovering my strengths and areas for improvement.
Along the way, I encountered beautiful people who offered guidance and wisdom for a successful music career. My open mic sessions evolved into performances where I showcased spoken word poetry, singing, and piano—all enhanced by body paint. Inspired and motivated, I started collaborating with theater directors to take my vision to the next level, ultimately creating a produced show with tracks.
My first collaboration with friend and producer, Trevan McClure, resulted in production of my song “In My Power” (released under WREN), which spiraled into a collaborative hip hop/pop body of work featuring tracks like “808 Slut” and “Boss B$Tch.” I found immense joy and energy in writing songs that allowed me to express parts of myself that I shied away from. These songs also allowed me to express what I believe is “feminine rage”. I feel as a woman I have had to keep myself quiet in a lot of situations afraid to speak up (especially to) men. The songs give me a platform to really say how I feel.
Now, performing has become something I absolutely love. I never envisioned myself as a performer—just a songwriter—but I’ve learned that I am a natural in front of an audience. My songs, passion, and curiosity have led me here, and I can’t wait to see where this journey takes me next.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Pursuing music in Los Angeles is anything but easy, especially surrounded by so much talent. I’ve had to learn to check my ego at the door, embracing humility while staying convicted in my strengths. Performing for the first time was nerve-wracking, but I realized that my purpose in writing songs is bigger than any fear of inadequacy so I have kept going!
Where I might lack in talent, I make up for in determination and hard work. I practice singing every day and am willing to make mistakes, fail, learn, and grow—all in pursuit of success. This journey has taught me that perseverance and a willingness to embrace vulnerability are essential in this competitive landscape.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I pride myself in saying that I am a “Performing Artist” specializing in poetry and songwriting. Although my music career is still in its early stages, I know I am a captivating entertainer. It never fails to amaze me when the room goes silent as I begin to perform; it’s a sign that I’m doing something right.
I focus on writing songs that express deep emotions while empowering and uplifting my listeners. I often refer to myself as the “breakup queen,” as much of my music centers around processing heartbreak and transforming those emotions into empowerment. My hope is that when listeners hear my songs, they feel seen and reassured that everything will be alright, no matter what they’re facing.
I’m definitely known for my body paint and the “Boss Lady” vibes I bring to my performances. Feedback from peers often emphasizes how much fun I seem to have while being myself, and that authenticity is something I truly value.
We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
My definition of success aligns with that of Benjamin Zander: if I can see shining eyes in the room, that is a success! There’s nothing more rewarding than witnessing an audience member fully engaged with my music—singing, dancing, and coming up to me afterward to share how much they loved the show. It doesn’t matter if there are 10, 30, or 3,000 people in the room; I feel fulfilled as long as I can provide someone with a memorable experience.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heyitswren/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@hey.itsWREN
- Other: https://linktr.ee/heyitswren
Image Credits
Justin Comandatore, Schuyler Dorsey
