Brooke Murgitroyd is a folk-inspired pop artist based in LA. Her music touches on universal emotions, combining vulnerable lyrics with powerful vocals. 

Q: What’s your story? 

A: I grew up singing for as long as I can remember. My earliest memories involving music are sitting around the piano with my family, singing musical theater songs from shows like “Matilda” and “Annie”. My love for music started with my mom especially. She plays piano, and she was the first person who taught me how to sing. When I was seven, I was diagnosed with a chronic illness, and was forced to grapple with a lot of big changes and feelings at a young age. I started taking voice lessons at 8 years old, and quickly became curious about songwriting, especially to help process my diagnosis. I co-wrote my first song with my teacher, Carrie Marshall, who is a singer-songwriter from my hometown, about anxiety. I continued writing songs with her in my lessons until the COVID-19 lockdown in 2020. I fell deeply in love with songwriting as an outlet and started taking it seriously. In high school, I began posting covers and original songs on social media, playing gigs and open mics, and eventually decided I wanted to pursue a career in music.

Q: What has been the most rewarding part of making/writing music?

A: The most rewarding part of writing and sharing my music is seeing how it impacts other people. I typically write songs by myself in my room about things I am going through or experiencing, which is a form of therapy for me. However, the true beauty of songwriting begins when the songs are shared. Lyrics are always central to my songs, and they tend to be the most connective part of my music. When I perform or share my music, I often have friends tell me that something I wrote made them feel heard and understood. It is incredibly rewarding to watch a difficult experience I’ve had become a source of healing or inspiration for someone else. 

Q: What is the inspiration behind your songs?

A: Most of my songs are inspired by what I experience personally, or stories I’ve heard. I have a notes app page called “Song Seeds” where I collect little phrases, chord progressions, feelings, or stories I pick up along the way. I also have been getting more into journaling and I am trying to be consistent with it because my own thoughts provide endless ideas that I can capture in the moment, rather than trying to bring them back after they pass. I often start with a feeling or topic that is sitting with me when I start writing.

Q: What three songs do you think capture “you” the best for a first-time listener?

A: I haven’t released many songs yet, but I am working on putting out new music in the next year! Of the songs I have released so far, I would say that “Off The Record”, “Gravedigger”, and “Habit” capture my style the best. Also, be sure to check me out on social media (@brookemurgitroyd everywhere) for updates on releases and recent songs/performances! 

Q: What does your ideal day look like?

A: My ideal day would undoubtedly include a cute outfit, a walk somewhere beautiful (bonus points if there’s a view), puppy cuddles, a songwriting session, a delicious meal with friends, and catching a sunset. I also love my routines, so my skincare regimen, a slice of toast for breakfast, and a cup of tea are a must. 

Q: What goals are you working towards right now?

A: My biggest goal at the moment is to put out new music. While I have songs out already, I have a lot more to say and share. I have a lot of new songs that I feel represent my artist voice and style, and when I play them live, my audience really connects with them. Keep an eye out for announcements in the next year for new music!

Q: What’s advice you live by? 

A: “Be good and be cool”. I first heard this advice from Hailey Bowers, a songwriting instructor at Grammy Camp 2024, who is also one of my professors at USC. Being good at your craft is only half of what matters in the music industry (and in life!). Being kind, genuine, and empathetic is so much more important that a lot of young people realize. It allows us to see other people’s perspectives and experiences as a gift and a strength. Success is not stepping on other people to get to the top; it’s lifting each other up!

Q: Who inspires you? 

A: Sara Bareilles really inspires me as an artist and as a person. I recently saw a premiere of her movie called “Good Grief”, which documented the recording of her upcoming album with the same name. Her vulnerability to share such personal emotions and stories created a sense of trust with her collaborators, allowing them to be honest about their struggles as well. Sara’s approach to music is extremely inspiring also - she doesn’t strive for fame or recognition, but rather connection, authenticity, and belonging. 

Q: What’s something people would be surprised to learn about you?

A: I was a leader of the backpacking club at my high school even though I always thought I hated camping… turns out it’s awesome with the right people!

Follow me on socials @brookemurgitroyd and through my website, brookemurgitroyd.com!

Brooke’s Foster Recs:

• The Rowan Bracelet

• The Emili Top

• The Olivia Top - White Pointelle

• The Mia Mini Skirt - Orchid

• The Vivian Mini Skirt in Brown Sequin