From Childhood Crushes to Social Justice: Tracy’s Songwriting Journey Comes Full Circle
Florida Artist Tracy Finds Her Voice Through Fire and Female Powerhouse Icons
Here is our Interview:
Florida-based singer-songwriter Tracy Russell, the driving force behind her project Tracy, was aghast when she learned of the wildfires’ devastation that ravaged California earlier this year. In learning about the ruination, she stood up for what she believed in and acted in a major capacity by writing her song “Firefly”. We got a chance to interview Tracy about her life, inspiration, and the events that led her to this point in her music career.
SWB: Did you write much music when you were younger, and if so, what kind of subject matter did you write about (if not, what do you think you would have written songs about)?
Tracy: I have written music since I was 8 or 9 years old, and have recently rekindled my love for songwriting since 2024. In childhood, I wrote about petty arguments with friends and failed school girl crushes. My writing now focuses on larger themes of fighting social injustice and appreciating eternal optimism.
What kind of music was played around where you lived as a kid? Did it have any influence on your own music today?
Music heard in my house growing up included Def Leppard, Cyndi Lauper, and Pat Benatar. My first CD growing up was by No Doubt, Tragic Kingdom. Powerful female lead singers inspired me to find my voice in the high and low ranges of soprano and alto. I also love Celine Dion, Whitney Houston, Selena, Christina Aguilera, Ariana Grande, and Sia – artists that can belt an incredible love song or lift you up with a powerhouse message. I love music from the 90s/2000s and having music that is reminiscent of that time because it reminds me of the era I fell in love with music.
What artists and genres are your biggest lyrical influences? Are there any that seem like they’re more outside of the music you’re creating?
Growing up, I loved Elton John and Billy Joel songs that told a story. I’m a big fan of songwriters like Ed Sheeran and Taylor Swift in recent years. Their ability to make popular songs about a wide range of topics using the perfect amount of innuendo is an art form. I think having a strong sense of self it’s important to longevity in songwriting.
In the last year, I’ve found myself writing more country music style songs which is new for me. I like the depth of soul artists like Jelly Roll and Jess Murph can authentically bring to the genre.
With regards to your new single, “Firefly”, it’s clear that the wildfires in California must have had a big impact on you. To that point, is there anything that you would say to the powers-that-be about how they could’ve handled the wildfires better?
“Firefly” was written from a place of helplessness after witnessing the devastation of the Los Angeles wildfires all the way in Florida. It still seems inconceivable that such a thing could happen. I’m not the judge or jury, but as the observer, one way I process my emotions is to make a melody about the moment. Many of my song ideas come from the desire to create classic protest songs of 60s/70s inspiration. I created “Firefly” to promote healing through music after a shared tragedy, I hope the message resonates with others.
As a new artist just starting to develop more music, what advice do you have for anyone considering taking the same plunge into the industry?
My advice to new artists is to jump in with both feet! Perform at every open mic and talent event you can, get feedback on your stage presence. Book time in the studio and start getting comfortable professionally recording your concepts. The faster you get comfortable in the spaces you want to dominate, the closer you are to your dream!
We look forward to hearing more of Tracy’s work as time goes forward!
You can listen to Tracy’s single, “Firefly”, on Spotify!
