Montana Modderman: Rising Country Star
When someone loves something and just *does* it, magic happens. In this Q&A series, I talk to writers, musicians, artists, engineers and other dreamers and wanderers about their process — the mess, the challenges, the strides and the breakthroughs. It's not a career column; it's a look into people, their individuality and what motivates them to get out of bed in the morning. I hope it helps you on your way.
Montana Modderman is a singer-songwriter and a new voice in country music. Montana has been writing her own songs for over a decade, posting these and covers of her favourites on her YouTube channel. Now, things are ramping up for the University of South Florida grad, with her first single, "Didn't Mean To," out on iTunes and streaming. Better start paying attention.
When did you start writing songs?
I believe I was ten years old when I wrote my very first song.
Have you always written country songs? Was this a decision or just what you gravitated towards?
It’s always been country music for me. I grew up listening to country music. The first song I learned to play on guitar was "Tim McGraw" by Taylor Swift. When I started writing, country songs just came naturally.
Who are your musical influences?
Shania Twain, Faith Hill, and Taylor Swift are just a few of my musical influences. I’ve listened to so much music and I feel like all of it has influenced me in one way or another. These ladies, in particular, have had a huge impact on me and my music. They wrote and sang the songs that made me believe as a young girl that I could do anything. Without them, I know I wouldn’t be where I am today.
“If you love it, go for it.”
If you had to pick one artist to duet with, who would it be?
If I had the opportunity to collaborate with any artist, it would have to be Taylor Swift. She’s the reason I started playing guitar. To get to work with her would just be such a full circle moment for me.
What does playing music mean to you?
Getting to make music is such a blast. I love every minute of it. It means the world to me.
What are your favourite things to sing about?
I write about my personal experiences. So naturally, that’s what I sing about as well. You know, I write about love, breakups, insecurities, growing up, and life. Life’s a journey and a song has the ability to capture that journey so well.
What's your biggest dream as a musician?
My biggest dream would probably have to be winning a CMA Award. I grew up watching all of my favorites accept their awards on television. To win one myself would be such an honor. I would cry, I’d cry a lot.
Do you feel at a disadvantage being a woman in country music? How are you dealing with those challenges?
There’s no question that it is harder for women to break into the country music scene. It just makes me want to work even harder. I do think that the climate is slowly changing. It’s not there yet, but I believe it will get there. In the meantime, there are such amazing female country artists like Kelsea Ballerini, Maren Morris, and Carly Pearce to look up to. These ladies make me so proud to be making country music.
What advice do you have for young women who want to pursue their dreams?
If you love it, go for it. Work hard, be good to people, and remember to be good to yourself.