Indie Pop Songstress Devon Michael Talks Relationship Escapism On New Single ‘Airplane Mode,’ Upcoming EP

Originally hailing from Philly, LA-based singer-songwriter Devon is ready to take the indie pop scene head-on with her new single, “Airplane Mode,” which dropped June 14th.

With a sound that consists of vibrant pop beats and relatable lyrics, she finds a way to cross strong lyrical content with melodies that contain a contagious type of danceability, as she leans into promoting her upcoming EP one song at a time. She started with the heavily energetic single, “Retrograde,” which she dropped in May of this year, and is giving her listeners more of a taste of the EP’s magnetic vibe with “Airplane Mode.”

The track expresses a specific feeling of yearning, which involves an awareness of someone moving on from a life you were once a part of, but also recognizing that you have the ability to move on too. With empowering lyrics like “I can put myself on airplane mode / And stop thinking about you, stop thinking about you,” she delivers a precise and relatable message through her songwriting, and adds a sense of gusto to the emotion that is inevitable heartbreak, giving her listeners a chance to move on confidently with her.

We got the chance to chat with the bubbly indie pop songwriter to learn more about the new single, her upcoming EP, and much more.

What are three things people should know about Devon Michael?

1. I’m an indie pop girl from Philadelphia.

2. In addition to working on my own music, I also write and produce for many other wonderful artists.

3. I’m a yoga teacher, and I host a My Chemical Romance themed class for my friends called “I’m Not Okay.”

So you’ve just released your latest single, “Airplane Mode.” What can you tell us about the backstory and inspiration behind this track?

“Airplane Mode” is essentially about seeing an ex on social media and wanting to escape all of the gutting feelings that come with that… but told through a space-themed metaphor. The song was created during a session with my friend Taylor Sparks, and we wanted to make something that felt fun and cathartic. The song is about escapism, so we wanted to make it feel like an escape in the best way.

I see that it’s going to be on your upcoming EP, Even NASA Loses Satellites. Let’s start with that title and why you chose it/the relevance behind it.

I once heard that NASA lost track of some satellites, and my immediate thought was, “these people are our country’s greatest minds… they’re literal rocket scientists.” And so I realized that, if even they lose things from time to time, it’s probably ok if I feel a little lost sometimes. This EP is about launching into the unknown and embracing the unexpected – and not being too hard on myself along the way because hey, Even NASA Loses Satellites.

What other themes or common messages can listeners expect to hear more of in the upcoming EP?

My music is often a bit rose-tinted, and this EP is no exception. It explores themes of growth and self-discovery, with an encouraging message that everything works out the way it’s supposed to in the end.

Are there any specific songwriters/artists that you drew inspiration from for this project, and how did they influence you?

Having grown up listening to artists like Joni Mitchell, Counting Crows, and Billy Joel, I’m always drawing inspiration from the lyrical storytelling of classic folk / singer-songwriter. From a production standpoint, I’m constantly immersed in the soundscapes of artists like The 1975 and HAIM.

Can you tell us who or what made you want to pursue a life in music-making and songwriting? Any local/personal mentors in your life?

I’ve never imagined any other sort of life. I remember coming home from pre-school and telling my family that I wanted to drop out and become a singer, and I remember in high school attempting to get teachers to accept songs / lyrics as writing assignments. Making music is what I love to do most, and I’m grateful that my friends and family always indulged me and encouraged me to keep doing it.

What is a challenge or two you’ve had to face while working on this EP?

The biggest challenge of working on this EP was figuring out when it was finished. I can overthink lyrics and rework productions endlessly, but at some point it’s time to commit and call it a song. What’s the famous Leonardo da Vinci quote? “Art is never finished, only abandoned.”

What was the most rewarding/your favorite part of making it?

Since I am fortunate enough to have the opportunity to collaborate with other inspiring artists on their projects, my tastes occasionally morph between genres. It was a pleasure to tap into all the sounds that bring me joy for this EP and end up with songs that sound like “me.”

What does a dream gig or collaboration look like for you?

My dream gig would be to tour with Sara Bareilles. She simply radiates, and her songs are so joyful. I think we would have the most fun on the road. 🙂

Do you have a tour/gigs lined up this summer and/or after the release of the EP?

While I’m an East Coast girl at heart, I’m currently based out here in LA. I frequently play at pop-up shows around the city, and you can follow me on Instagram to stay updated for my next one!

Featured photo by Dolly Ave