Single Review | Megan Black | Mother. Sister. Lover.

MOTHER. SISTER. LOVER. artwork

Terrifically transparent, there’s no double meaning

MOTHER. SISTER. LOVER.‘ is the latest track from one of Scotland’s most talented and promising songwriters, Megan Black. This was written by Black, and mixed/mastered by fellow Scottish artist Scott Bathgate. It is a track that is beautifully made, providing a very memorable and much needed message. It’s primary focus is to unite women, bringing together those who are forced into competition with each other in a structure created mainly by men. It aims to eradicate the mentality of women having to compete against each other in every aspect of life. It’s common for women to be compared all the time. This ranges from things like how they parent children to what clothes are permitted, and which aren’t.

In this incredible tune, Black gives us a mantra to live by. The chorus is lead by Black and accompanied by an echo of backing vocals from other women and those who resonate with the message and lyrics of the track. This creates a somewhat haunting but mesmerisingly memorable vocalisation of unity. “Mother, sister, lover, I’m with you. All they want to do is keep us apart” is the lyric repeated in each chorus. This perfectly summarises the concept of ‘MOTHER. SISTER. LOVER.‘ as a song that emphasises the importance of women working collaboratively without the need to fight. This is also supported by the plethora of lyrics that add to the overall highlighted message.

Picture by Charlie Morachnik from Echoe Echoe Photography

Throughout the track, phrases like “she’s not my enemy” and “I’m not the enemy” are heard. Words like this are reassuring. They encourage and promote an alternative mindset than the very much outdated one that seems to pressurise women into thinking they’ll never be as good as someone else. Following this are similar lyrics like “tired of fighting” and in regards to mothers, sisters, friends and lovers, “they matter more“.

Megan Black’s vocals are terrifically transparent, there’s no double meaning or alternative depiction of what Black is discussing. She can be heard clearly throughout the entire song, making it very difficult not to hear her message. The 70s rock influences are obvious too, the moody and somewhat darker sound of the guitar is perfect for the topic of the track. The melody is simple but helps drive the concept.

It is clear to see why Megan Black has obtained numerous awards for her songwriting, some of which include awards in Los Angeles and San Francisco. Black has been called “one of the finest singer-songwriters working in Britain today” and this track only further proves this. She has this innate ability and talent to write down the thoughts of so many people, as though she’s communicating telepathically with them. Megan Black’s latest track is one with heartfelt words and haunting melody which force you to sit back and think. Black is incredibly talented, and someone that will so really far with her musical achievements and accolades.