Mackenzie Critch Unveils Her Debut Single, “’03”
Emerging singer-songwriter Mackenzie Critch has unveiled her debut single, “’03.”
In the single, the St. John’s, NL songwriter shares her perspective on a universal, taboo part of the teenage experience: Fake IDs.
The song is clever, light, and comedic and is meant to highlight the “coming-of-age” years from 17-20 when youth have to balance new responsibilities and expectations. It’s about the stories and experiences we hide from our parents, the desire to become independent, and trying to fit into the world as a young person.
“’03” is the first of two singles that Mackenzie has recorded as part of the 2022 MusicNL NewFound Talent prize package. The song was recorded at Citadel House Music in Lewisporte with producer Dean Stairs (Ana & Eric, Nick Earle, Rosemary Lawton) and mixed and mastered in Mount Pearl by Matt Dines of Hurricane Music (Summer Bennett, Baraka, Nerve Shack). Mackenzie enlisted former NewFound Talent winner Darcy Scott on guitar, Madeline Carter of the Carter Girls on fiddle, and Hunter Madden of With Violet/Cabot Power on drums and bass.
Listen to “’03” below and learn more about Mackenzie Critch via our Five Questions With segment.
Care to introduce yourself to our readers?
My name is Mackenzie Critch, I’m a singer-songwriter from Paradise Newfoundland. I have been singing since I could talk, for as long as I remember music has been my whole world.
Tell us a bit about your most recent release.
My song “‘03” is about the taboo aspects of growing up. Newfoundland is famous for its iconic George Street. Oftentimes when you graduate high school you would go on the hunt for a fake ID so you could get a taste of the hustle and bustle. This is something you keep from your parents because it emphasizes underage activities. But most times there is little harm being done when you experience George Street for the first time. Everyone is doing the same thing, having fun with their friends and making memories. I explained this in the lyric “I don’t mean no harm, I’m just having fun.” My song “‘03” is a lighthearted comedic approach to growing up.
Where do you tend to pull inspiration from when writing?
I am very inspired by the classics like Willie Nelson, Dolly Parton, Waylon Jennings, Aretha Franklin the list goes on. I always grew up being called an old soul, therefore I tend to reflect this in my writing. I always find myself going back to the basics when I’m writing. For example, stories of my past or interesting concepts from books, articles, or daily life that have captured my attention, much like the artists I have mentioned. I also like to write songs that will connect with my listeners, writing is such a personal experience, so I love to share that personal feeling with my listeners.
Do you have any upcoming shows you’d like to tell us about?
I will be performing at Landwash Brewery in Mount Pearl, NL on the third Wednesday of each month, as well as The Wilds Resort every Saturday. I will also be performing at the 2023 Folk Festival Saturday, July 8th at 8:00 on the main stage. There are a couple more gigs in the works but have yet to be announced.
What’s your goal for 2023?
My goal for 2023 is to continue to write and release as much music as I can while also connecting with fans and supporters at live shows as much as possible. I would also like to focus on bettering myself as a musician and improving my skill- there is still so much I can learn!