After the release of her addictive honky-tonk single “Marlboro Might,” we sat down with Kelowna-based country artist Makayla Charleen to learn more about the artist behind the music.
What we found was an artist deeply committed to her craft, with a genuine love for country music and a journey that’s just beginning.
RELATED: Have a listen and learn more about “Marlboro Might”, the latest song from Makayla Charleen …
Finding Her Place in Country Music
Though now establishing herself as one of Western Canada’s promising country artists, Charleen’s path to country music was anything but straight. Growing up in Vernon before moving to Kelowna, she was immersed in the performing arts from an early age. “I was always in musical theatre, I took piano lessons, I took dance lessons,” she shares. “So I was always in the arts and creative world.”
Despite her background in theatrical productions, it was in country music where Charleen found her true calling.
Her first country performance came unexpectedly at Kelowna’s OK Corral Cabaret, with less than 12 hours to prepare. “I was terrified. I was so scared,” she recalls with a laugh. “I remember sitting at my house and going through my phone trying to figure out what songs I’m gonna play. I think I ended up putting a list of about 70 songs together.”
Back in 2020, she took a trip to Nashville which only intensified her passion for music. “It’s amazing. I’m like, why am I not living here?” she reminisces, her eyes lighting up. “Get me down to Broadway, get me down to the honky tonks, get me to all of the listening rooms and everything.”
The Heart Behind “Marlboro Might”
When asked about her songwriting process, Charleen lights up.
Discussing her latest single “Marlboro Might,” co-written with David Borys, she reveals the evolution of the song from concept to finished product. “We totally redid the whole song with more-so that idea of the Marlboro as a temptation,” she explains. “It’s not the heart, it’s not the mind, it’s not the drinks, it’s the Marlboro that’s really pulling you back.”
Her collaborative spirit shines through as she talks about working with producers Dan Botch and Garrett Ward from the Renaissance. After initially shelving the song due to melody issues (which she humorously describes as sounding “almost like Pumped Up Kicks”), they worked together to create what she calls a “honky tonk, bluesy feel.”
Have A Listen To “Marlboro Might”
The Artist Off-Stage
Between performances and writing sessions, Charleen has been steadily building her presence in the country music scene. Her approach to music, much like her personality, is genuine and down-to-earth. She’s not just performing songs; she’s sharing stories and connecting with her audience in an authentic way.
When asked about her influences, she mentions a mix of classic and contemporary country artists. Her setlists often include covers of Midland and Jon Pardi, alongside her original songs, showing her appreciation for both traditional and modern country sounds.
Getting to know Makayla Charleen, it’s clear that her success isn’t just about the music – it’s about the genuine, passionate artist behind it. As she continues to perform and release new music, one thing is certain: this is just the beginning for Makayla Charleen, and country music fans will want to stay tuned for what comes next.
Logan Miller
As the founder of Front Porch Music, I believe that music has the ability to connect people. I love country music, and I love the country music industry as a whole. My goal is to help music fans find new artists to fall in love with.
