Today we’d like to introduce you to Taylor.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Hi Voyage!
Music has always been the common thread throughout my life. Whether I’m writing songs, performing, or helping other artists develop their own songs, my passion has always been about creating connection through music.
My love for singing and songwriting started at just two years old, when I was recording my own songs on a Fisher-Price tape recorder (a true songwriter origin story!). Growing up on both coasts shaped me into someone who was curious, adaptable, and excited to connect with new people and experiences. By the time I was 13, I was forming my first band and playing local jazz bars in Portland, Maine. The only catch? My parents had to come along with me so I could actually get through the door!
At 15, I moved to SoCal to finish high school, and it was a huge culture shift from my small-town roots in Maine. It was also where I truly started leaning into my creativity and taking songwriting seriously. I was surrounded by artists, producers, and creatives who encouraged me to dream bigger and explore my own sound. During that time, I had the opportunity to record with Universal Music, collaborate with talented producers, and experience the magic of being in the studio. One of my favorite parts, even from those early days, was watching a simple idea transform into a finished song. Being surrounded by so much creativity opened my eyes to the many different ways music can come to life.
After high school, I eventually found my way to Denver, Colorado, where I knew I wasn’t ready to leave music behind. I dove into the local music scene, started writing again, and began building a new creative community. This led to the creation of Dear Luna, a four-piece pop/rock band, where I’ve been able to blend my love for soulful songwriting with a more energetic rock influence. I’ve also loved collaborating with local DJs and producers and exploring different genres that continue to expand my creativity as an artist.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The music industry can feel overwhelming at times. There is so much music being released every day, and as an independent artist, you’re constantly balancing the creative side with the challenge of getting your work in front of the right people.
One of the biggest challenges has been understanding that building the right creative community doesn’t happen overnight. Finding talented musicians is one thing, but finding people who genuinely share your vision, work ethic, and commitment is what truly makes a project special. When I moved to Denver, I knew I wanted to continue pursuing music, but building Dear Luna into the band it is today was a journey. It took years of meeting new people, navigating lineup changes, and trusting that the right collaborators would eventually find their way into the project.
Having Luke Hardcastle, Mateo Segovia, and Everett Sutton as part of Dear Luna has been incredibly rewarding. Each of them brings a high level of musicianship, professionalism, and creative energy that I’m truly grateful for. Beyond the talent they bring, we genuinely enjoy playing together, and that chemistry comes through on stage. I’ve also been incredibly fortunate to build a strong creative partnership with music producer Brian Kruesi, aka Krüzee. Finding a producer who truly understands your sound, knows how to bring your songs to life, and helps you grow as an artist is rare.
As many know, being an independent artist means wearing just about every hat imaginable. On any given day, I might be writing songs, managing social media, answering emails, or planning our next release. People often see the performances, but there’s an entire business happening behind the scenes that most don’t realize. Of course, there have been moments of self-doubt and slow seasons, but every challenge has made me a stronger artist.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Dear Luna began in 2017 when pianist Michael Schneider and I started performing together at local wineries and bars. Before long, we began writing some original music, and as more musicians joined the project, our sound continued to evolve. When Luke, Mateo, and Everett came on board, they brought strong rock influences that helped shape the energetic pop-rock sound we have today. That said, I still can’t quite hide my jazz and soul roots..they always find their way into our music. 🙂 Since then, our music has received airplay on 93.3 Locals Only, Indie 102.3, and 106.7, and each release has helped us connect with more listeners throughout Colorado and beyond. We’re incredibly excited for what’s ahead, with new music, more live shows, and the opportunity to step onto bigger stages and festivals in 2027. Learn more at: dearlunaband.com
For me, songwriting has always been a way to process life’s biggest moments, capture emotions, and turn experiences into stories that can be shared. Over the years, I met so many talented artists playing cover gigs who had notebooks full of lyrics, voice memos and stories they were desperate to tell. They had the creativity and the passion, they just didn’t know how to turn those pieces into a finished song. Denver Song Lab exists to help just this. Our signature five-session songwriting course guides clients from their curated idea to a finished song, complete with an acoustic demo and chord chart. We also offer add on creative coaching, a monthly membership for ongoing songwriting and artist development, and professional recording and production opportunities for artists who are ready to take the next step. Learn more at: denversonglab.com
What I’m most proud of isn’t one specific song or accomplishment—it’s seeing how music has allowed me to build connections with people and continue learning along the way. I’m grateful to witness the collaboration and growth that comes from making music together.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
I’m a big fan of songwriting podcasts like And The Writer Is… because I love hearing artists speak honestly about their creative process. It’s a great reminder that there isn’t one “right” path to becoming a songwriter. Rick Rubin’s The Creative Act and Julia Cameron’s The Artist’s Way have also had a lasting impact on me, encouraging me to stay curious, trust the creative process, and continue growing as an artist.
Beyond books and podcasts, my biggest source of inspiration comes from the people around me in the local music scene. Denver has introduced me to so many talented songwriters and storytellers, and being part of spaces like Auditorium.co has connected me with artists who encourage one another, collaborate, and continue pushing each other in our endeavors.
I feel incredibly grateful for every chapter of this journey so far. There are still so many songs to write, stories to share, and new creative connections to make. I’m excited to see where music continues to lead me!
Pricing:
- 5 Session Songwriting Course $500 (denversonglab.com)
- Dear Luna Private Events/Weddings Available
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.dearlunaband.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearluna_music/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dearlunaband/
- Other: https://denversonglab.com
Image Credits
Amanda Bastos – www.amandabastos.com
