Meerah, the wonderful vocalist of Alpha Q, joined us for a chat about the band’s latest single, “Broken,” and the new direction they’re exploring together. She opened up about the significance of the new track, her diverse musical influences, and her thoughts on creating space for women in heavy music. We also got a hint of what’s next for Alpha Q, and it sounds like there’s plenty to be excited about.
Reuel
Hello Meerah! I am happy to chat with you. How are you doing?
MeeRah
Hi, I’m happy to chat with you too. I’ve just returned from a wonderful sunny vacation escape and I’m preparing for Christmas family time.
Reuel
That’s wonderful! Also, congratulations on your wonderful new single “Broken”! Are you content with the reaction the new single has received from fans?
MeeRah
Thank you so much! My band and I are very happy with the feedback and engagement our new song has received. We were very excited to let it out into the world because it is a part of the new us.
Reuel
How is this single different from older releases from Alpha Q?
MeeRah
“Broken” is one of the first compositions in our recent band formula and it sounds like a mixture of our strong personalities and diverse musical influences. We are now a different mix of people and our creative juices blend into something that we can never really define when we get to writing. I guess that’s what makes this song different than the previous Alpha Q compositions: the fun we had together and the thirst for expression.
Reuel
Great! Is this single an appetizer for something bigger coming soon from Alpha Q?
MeeRah
Appetizer is the right word indeed. We’ve recorded more new material last summer and are intensely working on new songs. It definitely is a beautiful creative journey together.
Reuel
So exciting! Alpha Q’s sound is very diverse and unique. What elements would you say define Alpha Q’s music, in general?
MeeRah
I think the main ingredient is the contrast between the heaviness of the riffs and the vocal melodies that soften and connect. One other main ingredient is the story behind the music, the naked truth sort to say. For “Broken” for instance I just told my story at the time: how it feels to be hurt, misunderstood, and isolated. I am a strong believer in healing through music and connecting with others through the power of truth and melody.
Reuel
Can you tell us a little about your musical background? What musicians had the most influence on you growing up and inspired you to become an artist yourself?
MeeRah
I always knew that music was a part of me and that writing melodies and lyrics was my main means to perceive this world and interpret it. I admired Whitney Houston’s vocal power and capability to hook you which just two notes, I was fascinated by Tina Turner’s grit and energy but also Alanis Morissette’s amazing vocal and lyrical artistry. Some of my other influences that I can name right now would be: Soundgarden, Alice In Chains, Audioslave, Incubus, Foo Fighters, Alter Bridge, Metallica, System of A Down, Halestorm, Limp Bizkit, Pain Of Salvation. Oh, and a looot of country blues and rock that I can never get enough of like Chris Stapleton, Miranda Lambert, Blackstone Cherry and The Cadillac Three for the last ten years 😁 I know, I am musically multipolar. ☺️
Reuel
If you could collaborate with any artist, dead or alive, who would it be and why?
MeeRah
This is a tough one and I will go with how I feel right now. So, from the ones still around us I would love to have the honor to write music with Myles Kennedy, James Hetfield and Chris Stapleton. I adore their incredible vulnerability in their writing and capability to just get under my skin. I would’ve loved to be able to collaborate with the one and only Chris Cornell. Everything he approached became intensely heart-melting to me. Such an amazing artist and soul.
Reuel
How do you feel about the representation of women in heavy music today, and what do you think can be done to promote more inclusivity and support for female musicians?
MeeRah
I think there is so much room that has been created for us female creators nowadays, and I’m happy that the rock and metal industry is embracing this. I am a professional voice teacher and I also coach young girls who love to sing rock music and be part of the heavy scene. It makes me very proud to be able to contribute to this. I think that instead of waiting for others to create space, we should be part of the change ourselves and be an example and a guide for other young girls and women.
Reuel
Great words! Thank you for your time, Meerah, and for this interview! Is there anything else you’d like to conclude this interview with?
MeeRah
Thank you for having me! For everyone reading this interview, come check out our music and feel free to tell us how you feel and connect with us.
