Interview with Madeline Merlo

From Rising Star to Country Pop Sensation: The Remarkable Journey of Madeline Merlo

By
Anders — Editorial Lead
Anders is the creative force and technical architect behind Divine Magazine’s editorial identity. Blending Scandinavian minimalism with a sharp instinct for digital storytelling, he shapes the...

Since signing with Open Road Recordings in 2013, Canadian country pop singer-songwriter Madeline Merlo has been making waves in the music industry.

With her powerful vocals, heartfelt lyrics, and infectious melodies, Merlo has captured the hearts of fans around the world. In this blog post, we will explore the remarkable journey of this talented artist and delve into the milestones that have propelled her career to new heights. Get ready to be inspired by the incredible talent and determination of Madeline Merlo.

Growing up in Maple Ridge, British Columbia, she drew inspiration from her natural surroundings and diverse musical influences like Motown, Soul, R&B, and country music. Now signed with Stoney Creek Records, Merlo continues to showcase her unique blend of genres and strong female voices in her music.

What is your creative process like?

My creative process usually starts with an idea or a feeling I am trying to capture. I try to follow that as honestly as I can, so I can make the most honest and relatable music! 

Which famous musicians do you admire?

Taylor Swift, Dolly Parton, John Mayer, Noah Kahan, Stevie Wonder, Tori Kelly

How would you describe your music?

Authentic, energetic, honest, joyful

What are your top two favorite albums of all time? Why those albums?

Kacey Musgraves, Golden Hour – I feel as though this album truly captures the feeling of falling in love. It’s so colorful and completely one of a kind. 

John Mayer, Born and Raised – This album impacted me so deeply when I began writing music. The stories and lyrical content of this record is honest and gut-wrenching. His musicianship and exploration as an artist is very inspiring to me. 

When did you start writing music?

8 years old 

Which fictional character do you wish was real?

Harry Potter 

What makes you nostalgic?

Christmas 

What was the last TV series you watched on TV?

Outlander

What is your favorite board game?

Clue

What is the most useless talent you have?

I can read really fast.

Madeline’s new song, “Makeup,” showcases her ability to authentically express vulnerability and raw emotions through her music. By drawing from her personal experiences and intertwining them with universal themes, Merlo connects with listeners on a deeper level, making this song her most personal and relatable work yet. Her honesty and authenticity shine through, solidifying her place as a rising country star with both talent and emotional depth.

Stream/Download Makeup https://madelinemerlo.lnk.to/makeup

https://www.instagram.com/madelinemerlo

Anders is the creative force and technical architect behind Divine Magazine’s editorial identity. Blending Scandinavian minimalism with a sharp instinct for digital storytelling, he shapes the magazine’s voice, visual rhythm, and structural clarity. His work moves between worlds — part editor, part engineer — ensuring every article is not only beautifully crafted but technically flawless beneath the surface. From SEO frameworks to asset design, from WordPress architecture to the magazine’s cinematic featured imagery, Anders builds the systems that let stories breathe. He curates Divine’s tone with intention: clean lines, honest language, and a commitment to elevating everyday subjects into something quietly extraordinary. Whether refining editorial workflows or sculpting the magazine’s long‑term creative direction, Anders brings a steady hand and an eye for detail — the kind that turns a publication into a signature.