When Gia Margaret lost her voice in 2019, it felt like “reliving a nightmare every day.” That period of enforced silence forced the Chicago-based singer-songwriter to pivot, leading her to explore the depths of drone music and composition. Her ambient work, including the viral success of “Hinoki Wood” from Romantic Piano, eventually found a life of its own, even as it became detached from her personal narrative in the digital sphere.
Now, Margaret is stepping back into the spotlight with her new album, Singing. As the title suggests, it marks her first vocal-centric project since 2018’s There’s Always Glimmer. Working alongside producer Guy Sigsworth—known for his collaborations with artists like Rosalia and Madonna—Margaret has crafted a record that balances the intimacy of her ambient roots with expansive, rhythmic experimentation.
The album’s lead single, “Good Friend,” exemplifies this evolution, blending trip-hop sensibilities with the ethereal weight of Gregorian chants. It is a testament to her growth as a songwriter who is no longer afraid to let her voice lead the way. In a recent conversation, Margaret opened up about her creative process, her relationship with her audience, and the lessons she has learned along the way.
When asked about the interpretation of her lyrics, Margaret remains refreshingly detached. “I think it is a listener’s right to misunderstand lyrics and take what they want from them,” she says. “Go ahead, misunderstand them.” This philosophy extends to her broader career, where she has learned to navigate the pressures of the industry by staying true to her own quiet, deliberate pace.
Reflecting on her influences, she cites Sade’s Lovers Rock as a foundational purchase, noting how it shaped her early approach to vocal performance. Her life outside of music is equally grounded; she finds solace in nature, antique shops, and the simple act of journaling. Even her approach to fame is unconventional, favoring the anonymity of an artist like Banksy over the glare of the public eye.
As she prepares for her first headlining tour, Margaret is balancing nerves with genuine excitement. Having spent years in a state of healing and hiding, she is ready to reconnect with the listeners who have followed her journey. “I’m really looking forward to my first headlining tour,” she says. “It’s been a long time coming.”
