IN CONVERSATION WITH HAVEN MADISON

interview by JANA LETONJA

Emerging pop artist Haven Madison just released her debut single ‘Why Do The Pills Work’, and will be releasing her next single ‘Castle’ on 9th May. With emotive songwriting and compelling vocal performances, her music delves into themes of personal growth and self-discovery, that resonates with a diverse audience. She also recently performed at Audacy’s ‘Leading Ladies’ event at Brooklyn's Kings Theatre in New York City, sharing the stage alongside Gwen Stefani and Lainey Wilson. 

Congratulations on the success of your debut single ‘Why Do The Pills Work’. Can you share what inspired you to write this song and what message you hope listeners take away from it?

Thank you so much. Honestly, this song was such a release for me. I’ve had my own struggles with anxiety for years and I thought how powerful it would be to take a negative in my life and make it art. It’s a process and privilege I’ll never get tired of, and I hope listeners are reminded that they’re not alone, and they are not at a disadvantage for needing medication to survive this wild life. We all need help, and no one should be ashamed of the help that works for them. 

Mental health is such an important and sometimes delicate topic. How did you approach writing about it so openly and vulnerably in your debut release?

I think it was a song that was so intricately and uniquely created, like it already existed and I just needed to find it. And when it comes to songs like that, I just know it’s so much more than me and my fear of being “too personal” or “too vulnerable.” I vowed when I was young that if my dreams really came true, I would be someone who is honest and real in every moment, and that’s what I’ve continued to do through the last couple of years. 

Your songwriting often touches on themes of personal growth and self-discovery. How do you tap into such honest emotions when you create music?

I mean, I’m a nineteen year old girl trying to figure it all out. It’s very honest with where I’m at, somewhere between my past and my full potential. Just soaking up every moment and making songs about everything in the middle. 

Can you give us a little preview of your upcoming single ‘Castle’? What was the creative process like for that track, and how does it build on your story as an artist?

This song has been special since the moment I heard it back the first time. I think it’s a powerful story of love, but it’s dressed in previous heartbreak. The melodies are unlike anything I’ve ever done, and the story has been so healing for me. Believing that someone will come around someday, and I’ll know they’re worth tearing down my walls and loving again. I can’t wait for that day. 

As an emerging artist signed to Sony BMG, how has your journey in the music industry so far shaped your creative vision and your approach to releasing new music?

I’m so grateful for the team at BMG and their genuine love for music, and I feel like it’s really allowed me to explore every version of myself. I think in the last couple of years I’ve discovered that my purpose is to be someone who says I see you, I understand you, and I feel it too. So, I’ve been writing most of my songs with that in mind and it’s transported me into a vulnerable, raw, and authentic place that just feels right. 

You recently performed at Audacy’s ‘Leading Ladies’ event at the iconic Kings Theatre in New York City, sharing the stage with legends like Gwen Stefani and Lainey Wilson. Being part of an event that celebrates women in music must have been incredibly empowering. What does it mean to you to be recognized among such talented and influential artists so early in your career?

I’m just so grateful. I signed up to create to my full potential, and to the best of my ability, simply create. People like Gwen Stefani and Lainey Wilson have and will continue to inspire me, so being invited to play an event with them was surreal. I just love what I do so much and it’s moments like that that remind me this is my purpose.  

Who are some of the artists, past or present, that have inspired your sound or your path as a pop artist?

I could probably list 50 artists, but off the top of my mind I would say Ellie Goulding, Lorde, Miley Cyrus and Raye. I just feel like they’re not afraid of anything and they don’t have anything off the table of topics to write about, and I love that. 

As your career is gaining so much momentum, how are you staying grounded through all the new experiences and opportunities coming your way?

I am so grateful I can say I have a real good group of people around me. My family, my band, my team, my friends. They don’t just support me, but they get down in the dirt with me. I know I don’t have to walk through any of this alone, and that’s plenty to keep me going. 

With ’Castle’ on the horizon and the incredible buzz around your debut, what are you most excited for fans to hear or experience next from you?

I feel like I’ve really unlocked a new level of writing, playing, and singing that I can’t wait to share with people. I want fans to be on this journey with me and I think chapter 2025 is looking pretty promising. 

Finally, for those who are just discovering Haven Madison, tell us more about yourself and your passions outside of music.

Aside from working on music, I love hanging out with friends. Game nights are my favorite, as I am very competitive. Pilates and hot yoga are my favorite workouts and I love the ocean. Beach vacations are the best. I can barely get through anything without making some sort of joke, so if you want to hang and giggle, follow me on my socials. My digital footprint is certainly something. 

CREDITS:

photography ANDI ELLOWAY