Galena based musical artist, Meghan Davis, sat down with Galena Guide recently to share with us a little bit about herself and her music.

GG: Thank-you, for taking the time to talk with us.  Please tell us a little bit about yourself. 

Meghan: “I’ve been playing music in Galena for as long as I can remember! Ever since I was a child growing up in Scales Mound, I had an innate interest in music and performing. After taking years of guitar lessons from Jim Mantey, I began playing in Galena area music venues when I was 15 years old, and haven’t stopped since. I’m often described as being an “old soul” because I always like to say that I play a little bit of everything, offering acoustic hits from the 1960’s to today’s top 100.  Primarily 1960’s and 70’s rock.) In my spare time, I enjoy running and fitness, watching the Chicago Blackhawks and consuming as much coffee as possible.”

GG: When did you first become interested in music and why?

Meghan: “I became seriously interested in music when I was about ten years old. I had been taking guitar lessons for a few years, when my teacher found out that I had a powerful singing voice. He then modified the way he was teaching me, and rather than teaching me to play lead guitar, he began showing me how to accompany myself so that I could play and sing at the same time. I loved it as soon as I could finish a song, and that launched my interest in being a “one-woman-band”! Being one of few solo female performers in the area, I often turn to musicians of other genres and styles to collaborate, and that has made me a much stronger performer! The reason I play so much 70’s music is because that was my dad’s favorite genre of music when I was growing up. Being exposed to it at a young age, I began to love the songs and added them to my set when I became a performer.”

GG: Who are your musical influences? 

Meghan: “My biggest musical influence is Stevie Nicks. I always make the joke that she’s my “spirit animal.” In a time when female singers were afraid to rock, Stevie Nicks changed the game! I love her music style, and my voice sounds very similar to hers in that we both have a low singing register! Other musical influences include: Janis Joplin, James Taylor, Carly Simon, Jim Croce and Ed Sheeran.”

GG: If you had to explain living in Galena, Illinois in one sentence, what would it be?

Meghan: “Galena’s historic, welcoming, magical atmosphere has the ability to make you feel like family within hours of being here.” 

“The group of characters that live here have become like family to me, and I adore the opportunity to be part of such an awesome community! I owe a lot to the group of Galena musicians who encouraged me to follow my music interests and dreams! Without them, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”

GG:  Thank-you Meghan! We wish you continued success. Check our events calendar to catch one of Meghan’s upcoming shows.