Madysin Hatter
Interview conducted on March 26, 2021
By Dan Locke
Madysin Hatter is a creature of ROCK. Singer/Songwriter/Rocker, Mama, Human. Her music is reminiscent of AC/DC, Fleetwood Mac, Aerosmith, Pat Benatar, Heart…all rolled into one sequin jumpsuit.
A New Jersey native who bounces between coasts, Madysin blends the edgy attitude of the east coast with the golden sunshine sleaze of the Sunset Strip in Los Angeles. Madysin’s unfiltered, infectious energy is best captured in her live performance (which is no surprise considering her extensive Broadway & musical theater background).
What is your upbringing?
I grew up in suburban New Jersey. Only child. Public school. Child actor going in and out of NYC almost every day for auditions and jobs starting when I was two and a half years old. Normal kid stuff lols.
How did you discover music?
When I was little, I was obsessed with the cartoon “Jem and the Holograms”. Still am. Had all the dolls, performed all the songs in my living room for my stuffed animals. Pretended I had magic star earrings that would turn me into a rock singer. Very little has changed.
How did you start to write music?
Also, initially because of “Jem and the Holograms”. I’d write short, catchy little songs I imagined Jem singing with The Holograms. Other songs were more suited for their rivals, The Misfits. My latest song “Wild & Strange” is definitely more of a Misfits song— Pizzazz, Roxy, & Stormer would rock “Wild & Strange”. In high school, I discovered Aerosmith and quickly became obsessed. Fell down the rabbit hole of Aerosmith and rock music, and have been camped out in Wonderland ever since.
You bounced between both coasts. Which coast is the best east or west for live music?
Yeah! So, I grew up in Jersey, then grew my wings in LA when I moved out there to attend UCLA. Now I’m back on the east coast. Pre-pandemic, I traveled back and forth between NJ & LA quite a bit and can’t wait til I can safely do that again. I honestly love both coasts for live music. I love the LA music scene on the Sunset Strip— Whisky A Go Go and Rainbow Bar & Grill, in particular. I’m a big “vibe” person, and the vibes at The Whisky and Rainbow are like nothing I’ve ever felt before from a music venue. They’re steeped in rock history and energy— I get so inspired each time I’m there. Really cool people too. I’ve also been very fortunate to find an amazing music scene in NJ and NYC. Some of the guys that I’ve been performing and recording with (Rob Bailey, Frank Ferrer, Brett Bass, & Rob Clores) have a great night over at Arlene’s Grocery on Stanton. They jam under the name “Mulekick” and perform all sorts of covers. They’ve had me up singing with them a bunch of times, and I’ve learned so much from performing with them. Definitely a “be the worst person in the room so you learn from the masters” type of situation for me. Eternally grateful for that opportunity and for their friendship. Everyone that hangs at Arlene’s is very cool and very supportive of one another. It’s like a little community there on Mulekick nights. And of course, any night curated by Tommy London is destined to be an epic one!
Describe your music.
Rock & Roll, heavy on the sequins.
What was your first performance at like?
My first performance as “Madysin Hatter” was a thrill! I was nervous. It was in a basement on the Lower East Side and I played to about five of my friends and my family members who braved a blizzard to come support me.
Do you belong to any songwriters’ organizations like the International singer-songwriter association, SESAC, BMI or ASCAP?
Yes, BMI.
What makes a good songwriter?
Guts, gusto, and honesty. Having something to say, and knowing how to say it.
What was the title of your first original song? Did you record it?
“Hole in the Wall” (this was during my Jem-obsessed days, I was roughly four years old). I’m sure my mom has it on a tape recorder somewhere.
What is the process of writing your music?
I don’t have a set process. Some songs start with an idea, some with a title, some with a phrase, some with a melody. Some just fall out of the sky and I have to scramble to get them down before they disappear.
You have performed with everyone including Guns N Roses. Has anyone given you any words of wisdom about the music world?
To clarify, I’ve never performed with Guns N’ Roses. I’ve performed with Frank Ferrer, who is the drummer from Guns N’ Roses. Frank is a good friend of mine, and when I’ve performed with him, it’s either been in the capacity of the aforementioned “Mulekick” project or on my solo material— both of which are completely separate from his other bands (including GNR). Going back to your question, about ten years ago I got to meet Sheryl Crow, who has always been a hero of mine. She told me to pursue music out of love over anything else. It’s advice that has grown on me over time. There’s a lot of hard work, and a lot of rejection and heartache that go into being a musician (or an artist of any kind). To keep going, you have to love it. For me, making music is a soul desire— I make music because it makes me happy. People can get caught up in chasing the material dream and “success”, and they end up missing the magic along the way.
How was it to play at the Whisky A Go Go and open up for Lita Ford?
Epic! I can’t say enough good things about the people at Whisky A Go Go. I’ve played there a bunch of times, and the people who run the place always have my back. The owners, the booking agents, the bouncers, the sound, lighting, & video crew— they all make performing at The Whisky a welcoming, positive experience. I have lots of treasured memories from performing at Whisky A Go Go, and I hope there will be more to look forward to in the future! Lita Ford is a legend, and it was an honor to open for her in front of a sold-out crowd. What a night that was! I recently posted some live footage from that show on my YouTube channel. Check it out! www.youtube.com/user/MadysinHatter . Man, I miss it!
Tell me about your single “Nobody’s Fault”?
“Nobody’s Fault” is one of my all-time favorite Aerosmith songs. A couple years back, we decided to reimagine it into the polar opposite of how it was originally recorded. My take on it is an acoustic, haunting lullaby-esque version that shines a spotlight on the prolific lyrics. I just released a cool, “one shot” music video for it, viewable on my Youtube channel and at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K_h4FO4uOfE . I just released a brand-new original song on March 26th. It’s called “Wild & Strange”, and it’s available on all digital platforms (go get it at https://linktr.ee/MadysinHatter ). It’s a high energy banger that brings some old school AC/DC energy to the forefront— featuring Tyler Bryant, Frank Ferrer, Rob Bailey, and Brett Bass. The music video is a trip, to say the least! You can check out the music video at https://youtu.be/5AfgtjqBtQQ . Thrilled to unleash “Wild & Strange”.
You have performed Helter Skelter for years. How has the song developed to what is now over the years?
I have! It’s one of my favorite songs to cover. Every time I perform it, it takes me to a different place than the time before. A great song to let loose on, get lost in, and play with.
How do you stay healthy while performing?
Even when I’m not performing, I try my best to maintain a very healthy lifestyle. No drugs, minimal alcohol. I try to eat nutritiously, and I exercise a few times a week. I’m very into Muay Thai (for my mind as much as for my body). If I’m performing a set, I wait to have a drink until I’m done singing. There was a learning curve there, but I’ve discovered I much prefer performing with a clear mind so I can explore the music in the moment and be “in the zone”. Also, I’m a mom! Gotta stay healthy for my kid! I’ve learned to treat my body and my voice as if I were an athlete. You have to train and put in the work to get maximum results.
What are your feelings about streaming music?
It’s a great way to feel like you can fit the entire sonic world in the palm of your hand. I like that it makes music distribution more accessible to us independent artists who don’t have major label backing. I love discovering new artists I maybe wouldn’t have come across without the algorithms. And I love curating playlists, and listening to other peoples’ playlists as well. Lots of positives to streaming. On the flip side, as an independent artist, I fear that it’s easy to get lost in the shuffle because there are just so many of us. And there’s nothing quite like holding a new record or actual CD in your hand. Exploring album art. Experiencing multi-track storytelling that takes you on a journey from the first tune to the last. As an artist in 2021, I think streaming platforms are important to embrace.
The symbol # is known as the number sign, hash, [ or (in North American usage) pound sign. The symbol has historically been used for a wide range of purposes Since 2007, widespread usage of the symbol to introduce metadata tags on social media platforms has led to such tags being known as “hashtags”, and from that, the symbol itself is sometimes called a hashtag. Are people forgetting that the # is a part of music?
Ha, we’ve gotta stay “sharp” about that! 😉
Digital vs. vinyl?
Both! I love collecting vinyl and exploring the artwork world of a release. And I appreciate the fact that buying a favorite artist’s merchandise helps support said artist. However, as a smaller independent artist, it’s way more realistic (and economic) to go the digital route, especially with the current trend of releasing songs as singles. Plus, I enjoy listening to all my digital downloads on the go! So, I say yes to both.
What song from the past is in your mind right now? Moreover, what is the meaning that song means to you?
I heard Aerosmith’s “Dream On” come on the radio today. It’s my favorite song in the Universe. “Dream On” is my White Rabbit. It puts me in a very introspective space where I can check in with myself. A meditation of sorts.
With the Pfizer, Moderna and other vaccines being released. How long before the whole world will be vaccinated against the virus. You have to remember there only has to be a 70% for Herd immunity (Herd immunity occurs when a large portion of a community (the herd) becomes immune to a disease, making the spread of disease from person to person unlikely. As a result, the whole community becomes protected — not just those who are immune.)
I wish I had the answer! I believe if everyone continues to exercise caution and common sense in their day to day lives, and the vaccine rollout continues to progress, we are much closer to this thing ending than we’ve ever been. I can’t believe it’s been over a year since this all started! I’m hopeful. I pray that we get through this soon.
If “Video Killed the Radio Star” do you think that the Covid-19 virus has killed live music? Do you feel the Covid-19 virus going to affect the music business in the future?
Absolutely not. I know that live music will come back bigger, better, and stronger than ever. The pandemic has given the stagnant world a chance to reflect on the things that bring them joy and excitement— all the things that people are missing right now. I know a lot of people are missing live music and theater, and are missing the opportunity to go to a concert and experience music firsthand. Once live music is safely back, everyone will want to be a part of it. I do think that, from a business standpoint, certain aspects of live music experiences will have to be reworked. But it will be back for sure. It will be a Renaissance.
What have you been doing with your self-quarantine?
I’m a stay-at-home mom. My #1 job is taking care of my son and running our household. So, it’s actually been a busy year with everyone home! I’ve really had to step up, and I think I speak for parents everywhere that this year has had its challenges. Very fortunate and grateful despite those challenges. I’ve also completed a few online courses, written quite a bit, taught myself Final Cut Pro, continued my Muay Thai practice, and read a ton of books— averaging about one book a week!
Are you still a DIY artist?
I am! I’m an independent artist, so no record label, management team, or PR firm helping me get the word out. I manage myself and handle my own press, marketing, merch design, booking, art direction, social media, and website. I also created and edited the lyric video that I will be releasing pretty soon for my song, “Wild & Strange”. I collaborated with Sleepless Pictures to direct the “Wild & Strange” music video. I edited my own promos for the song. And I worked closely with my producer, Rob Bailey, to execute the new songs we will be releasing in the coming months, but definitely left the mixing, mastering, and technical aspects in his hands. I got a great team of people to help me make some awesome music I’m excited to be sharing! I like to get my hands dirty and be involved in every aspect of my music. It goes back to the whole “loving the journey” thing.
Have you discovered or rediscovered any new hobbies?
I was a bookworm growing up, and the pandemic has reawakened my love of reading. I’m obsessed with books! So many I’m excited to dive in to. Thank god for books, for real. As Stephen King says, books are a form of telepathy. I dig that.
Many artists are doing nightly concerts over either YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. In October that is going to change at least on Facebook. Facebook is cracking down on livestreamed shows that include recorded music with new terms of service, preventing artists from using the platform for “commercial or non-personal” purposes, unless they have obtained the relevant licenses.
The updated music guidelines state that users “may not use videos on our products [which include Instagram] to create a music listening experience […] This will includes [Facebook] Live,” and stipulates that such content should be posted for the enjoyment of friends and family only.
How do you think this will change the landscape of Facebook?
These are unprecedented times! As an independent artist, it would be cool to feel supported by large social media platforms that, at their best, can serve as avenues to get music heard. Especially when in-person concerts are off the table. I love social media because it helps me connect with people who enjoy my music and helps me connect with other artists I’m a fan of as well. I hope policies don’t change too drastically because it’s wonderful to share art with one another online. And in these times, where else are we going to share it?
How can bands keep their fans if they cannot play live in front of the fans and sell merchandise to them at the show?
One year shouldn’t make or break whether or not someone loves and supports someone else’s music. I think staying connected on social media is important. If you’re the artist, personalizing the fans’ experience through social media platforms helps. And if you’re a fan, supporting artists you dig, through platforms like Patreon, are important as well. It’s a symbiotic relationship. We’ve all got to help one another if we are in a position to do so.
Is pay to play still a thing? Now pay to play also means thinks like playlist on the internet and opening slots for a major band on tour.
Different manifestations of “pay to play” have always been a part of the music industry, and always will be. I don’t think there’s anything wrong with that, as long as the mutual agreement or arrangement benefits both the artist and the venue. At the end of the day, it’s a business.
What about Holographic concerts in our living room?
I think holographic concerts in living rooms sound awesome, but nothing beats the real thing.
Governments around the world are hearing the call of thousands of music creators and included protections for the music community in the omnibus bill. In addition to extended and improved unemployment benefits and small business loans for freelance creators, the package includes several bills which the Recording Academy, its members, and the larger music community advocated for. From the Save Our Stages Act, provided a lifeline to performance venues and promoters, to the CASE Act, which creates an avenue for smaller creators to defend their copyrighted works, Congress has ensured that both music creators and those who act behind the scenes to bring music to life are given the support they need during this difficult time.” Do you think this will save music venues?
I sure hope so. We need to be there for the people, places, and businesses that have been there for us. We can all do our part as well— buy a t-shirt or gift certificate from places you love. Small businesses and music venues need our help!
Did you know that the Grammys MusicCares can help artist? The MusiCares COVID-19 Relief has helped thousands of music industry artists and professionals during these difficult days. This is the most recipients helped, for any single event, in MusiCares’ history. The need remains great, and these unique times remain critical for music people. It has taken a community uplifting one another to get through this pandemic, and MusiCares has pulled together a list of additional organizations and resources to further support you. https://www.grammy.com/musicares/get-help/relief-resources. Have you applied for it yet?
I have not, but I appreciate you spreading the word. Amazing stuff!
In the past if a musician stops doing music, they find a new career. For example, David Lee Roth from Van Halen became a licensed EMT in NY for 6 years, San Spitz (guitarist for Anthrax) became a master watchmaker, Dee Snider (Twister Sister) voice over work for SpongeBob SquarePants. If you can’t do music what would you like to be doing?
Writing. I had a couple projects in development out in LA before the pandemic hit and derailed some things I had been working on. I’m in the process of repurposing and salvaging to hopefully continue moving those projects forward when the time is right. I also love theater and acting (when I was a kid, I was in a Broadway show for three years, and I majored in musical theater in college at UCLA) and would love to get back into it one of these days. I love in depth character work, as you will be able to tell from my new music video for “Wild & Strange”, viewable at https://youtu.be/5AfgtjqBtQQ . I do have to reiterate though, I’m a full-time, stay at home mom in suburbia. Lols! That’s my job! And I love every second of it. It’s been a couple years since I’ve released new, original music. And I think it’s cool to find the room needed to balance a passion with your day-to-day. I’d like to see society normalize and embrace that a bit more.
What is your happy place?
100 Madonna Road, San Luis Obispo, California 93405. The physical manifestation of my soul. Ask anyone who knows me, and they’ll confirm! A bottomless obsession I have with Madonna Inn.
A lot of musicians such as Stevie Nicks, Bob Dylan, Taylor Swift, Journey, Def Leppard, and Shakira have sold their catalog rights within the last year. Bob Dylan sold his entire catalog for a reported $300 million. Once you get to the age of about 70. Publishing is far more lucrative than the mechanical royalties paid to artist based on sales, airplay and streams. A good example of this is Michael Jackson brought the rights to the Beatles catalog in 1985. And in the late 80’s the Beatles Revolution appeared in a Nike commercial.
The lump sums being offered by publishing firms are more tax friendly concerning estate planning.
Do you think you would be willing to sale your back catalog if someone like Universal is will to buy everything, such as all the rights to all your songs? Another factor is mortality.
I can only hope to have this conundrum when I turn 70! Knock on wood!!
Spotify’s ‘Stream On’ event on Monday (February 22), the company confirmed that more than 60,000 new tracks are now being ingested by its platform every single day. This means people are added new tracks uploaded to its platform every 1.4 seconds.
The figure, announced by Spotify’s co-Head of Music, Jeremy Erlich, means that across the course of this year, approximately 22 million tracks will be added to Spotify’s catalog. Spotify confirmed in November last year that its platform now played host to around 70 million tracks.
Therefore, it’s reasonable to assume that, by the end of 2021, SPOT will be home to over 90 million tracks. And that in the early part of next year, it will surpass a catalog of 100 million for the first time.
But still back at the beginning of the year Spotify deleted 750,00 songs, mostly from independent artists. What do you think what that could mean to independent artist?
These days, platforms like Spotify are important for independent artists who are trying to get their music heard by new ears. But they are also just one of many avenues. There’s no doubt that Spotify is a valuable tool, but it’s just one tool in the box. I cherish the personal relationships I have built with various bloggers, local radio DJs and programmers, venue booking agents, and other artists. Musicians have to work every angle and think outside the box when it comes time to promote their music. Especially now that there are so many independent artists releasing music on digital and streaming platforms. You’ve got to embrace it all if you want your music to reach people.
Sony Music in November and Warner Music Group in December, The ByteDance-owned video app revealed on (February 8) that it has struck an “expanded” global licensing agreement with Universal Music Group. Now that TikTok is now fully licensed by all three major record companies, will you start using TikTok more?
I created a profile on TikTok, but need someone to show me how to use it. I’ll try to figure it out again after I apply my night cream lols. In all seriousness, I view social media platforms, including TikTok, as wonderful promotional tools. I just started using TikTok and plan on using it to help promote “Wild & Strange”. I don’t have much experience with TikTok, but I do know my music is on there. Who knows how to start a TikTok craze? Help!
Danny Wimmer Presents just announced their 2021 Festival Calendar: Which includes the following live shows:
DWP Partners with Inkcarceration Music & Tattoo Festival for July 23-25 Event in Mansfield, OH
Louder Than Life Set for September 23-26 With Newly Added Thursday Night Celebration in Louisville, KY
Welcome to Rockville Expands To 4 Days and Shifts from Spring to November 11-14 In Daytona Beach, FL
Aftershock Set for October 7-10 In Sacramento, CA, Almost Sold Out
Would you be willing to play these shows and what precautions would you like to have in place?
That all sounds amazing and so exciting!! I hope it all happens, and safely! I’d love to be a part of it, I miss live shows! Can’t wait to perform again.
Anything you would like to say in closing.
Thank you so much for interviewing me, and for the insightful questions! My brand-new song “Wild & Strange” (featuring Tyler Bryant, Frank Ferrer, Rob Bailey, and Brett Bass) is available now on all digital and streaming platforms including Spotify, Apple Music, and iTunes. My “Wild & Strange” music video lives up to its title, and you can watch it now on my Youtube channel. Brand new merch is available through my website as well. Links to all of the aforementioned can be found here: https://linktr.ee/MadysinHatter and www.MadysinHatter.com . I’m dropping another new song at the end of May— follow me on social media and subscribe to my channels to be the first to know when that happens. If you dig “Wild & Strange”, please help me spread the word by sharing it on social media and requesting it on your local radio station. It’s important to support independent artists, and I appreciate each and every one of you for taking the time to check me out. Thank you again so much!
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