Sarah Miles

How many times have you listened to an album the whole way through without skipping over a track? Have you ever listened to a song and thought to yourself, “How did this person get inside my head? That’s exactly how I feel!” Well, let us introduce you to someone who meets these credentials. Sarah Miles is no stranger to Wordkrapht. She was featured on the Hand-Kraphted April edition CD sampler, and we featured a live video of her performing back in November. She has recently released her debut full length album, One.

One is an album full of authentic songwriting that finds the words to convey feelings most of us have felt at one point in our lives. She’s not only a songwriter, but a storyteller. Her talents are similar to a very well known act that’s all over the radio these days – Taylor Swift (although Miles’ vocals are one step above Swift’s). The music supporting Miles’ brilliant songwriting is well produced thanks to producer, Dave Pittenger, who kept the sweet, pop standards of Miles’ voice and lyrics, but added his own touch to create an album that presents a musician with staying power. - WordKrapht

Every once in a while, we here at PEV come across an artist we can’t say enough about. The kind of artist who provides a unique approach to songwriting and performing that we haven’t seen before. It should come as no surprise that the latest artist to leave the PEV staff in impressed silence arrived via Rock Ridge Music, an indie folk/pop artist named Ms. Sarah Miles. After we first heard about Miles, we quickly found out about her impressive past: starting in Princeton, New Jersey as the youngest child ever to be admitted to NJ’s prestigious Westminster Conservatory Children’s Choir. As a member of various a cappella groups, she toured Sweden, Newfoundland, and Toronto, and performed at The White House and on the Today Show. It wasn’t until she graduated from the University of Vermont that she made the big jump to NYC, where she held her first solo performance at the famous Bitter End.

Her success didn’t end there. Sarah went on to perform on NBC’s The Voice as well as open for PEV alums such as Tony Lucca and Pat McGee. Now, preparing for a move out to Austin, Texas, the singer/songwriter once known as Sarah Jane Wilson is preparing to release her latest record, One. She told us that fans can expect “a sweetly sincere collection of finely crafted folk-pop inspired by the simple but bold decision to follow your heart.” She continues, “I am so incredibly excited to release my album. It really has been a long, but amazing journey. I traveled all over writing with some super talented people. I spent about a year just writing my ass off until I built a strong enough repertoire that was ready and worth recording.” Prepare yourself for One (out July 16) by visiting http://www.sarahmilesmusic.com, and if you’re on the east coast, check out Miles’ schedule for her next round of live performances. There’s still much, much more to get into, so read on for all the answers to the XXQs.

XXQs: Sarah Miles

PensEyeView.com (PEV): How would you describe your sound and what makes you stand out from others in your genre?

Sarah Miles (SM): I would describe my music as indie folk/pop. Growing up listening to wonderful singer/songwriters plus my love for catchy pop songs has crafted my sound.

PEV: What kind of music were you into growing up? Do you remember your first concert?

SM: Growing up, there was always music playing in my house. I listened to a lot of James Taylor, Carly Simon, Joni Mitchell, and Shania Twain. I remember my parents owning a CD collection of Motown songs, and I loved listening to that! It was so much fun. I can’t recall my first concert, but I do remember my first Broadway show…Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Coat…I’ll never forget it! I wanted to be up on that stage singing with everyone else.

PEV: What was it like trying to break into the music scene when you first started out? What was your first show like?

SM: I feel like my break into the music scene has been pretty gradual. I started performing in high school, and kept playing through college, but I didn’t start my music career 100% until after graduating. I moved to New York City and dove right in! I quickly started learning that the music scene in New York is smaller than you would think. Everyone knows everyone, and for the most part people are very supportive. My first show was at The Bitter End in New York. I practiced for hours and hours to make sure my set was perfect. I was SO nervous! Lots of my family and friends came to support me. It was a memorable and wonderful night.

PEV: What can fans expect from a live Sarah Miles show?

SM: I think fans can definitely expect a fun evening! I tend to play solo – just guitar and me. It’s a pretty intimate set. I also say embarrassing things on stage…so they will probably get a good laugh too!

PEV: What is the first thing that comes to mind when you step on stage to perform?

SM: Don’t mess up the words…don’t mess up the words…don’t mess up the words.

PEV: What is the best part about being on stage in front of an audience?

SM: The best part about being on stage in front of an audience is feeding off their amazing energy. If people in the audience are enjoying your music, it shows, and it gives me such a rush. Once I get up there, I don’t want to leave!

PEV: What is the underlining inspiration for your music?

SM: A lot of my inspiration for my music has come from love and heartbreak, and just overall personal experiences. I never know when inspiration is going to hit me!

PEV: Thinking back to when you first started out, do you ever look back on your career and think about your earlier days and how you’ve arrived where you are today?

SM: I think about that ALL the time! I have grown so much as an artist and a person. Looking back at my first show, I was a nervous wreck and was terrified to get up on that stage. Now, getting up on that stage is exciting and exhilarating. I’ve learned a lot about myself and feel as though I have become a stronger person in this business. There are so many people that will want to give their opinions or take their piece of the pie, and I have to remind myself that at the end of the day, it’s my music and my career. I am in charge!

PEV: What’s one thing we’d be surprised to hear about you?

SM: Hmm, I think people would be surprised to hear that I have not yet played a show in California!! #letsmakeithappen

PEV: What happens when you hit a brick wall when writing? What are your methods to get over it?

SM: When I have writer’s block I need to walk away for a while and do something else. Maybe go for a walk or work out, hang out with friends or watch TV. Clearing my head or just thinking about something completely different sometimes does the trick. I also love co-writing with people. It’s great to bounce ideas off of each other, which can sometimes help to prevent that block.

PEV: What can fans expect from your upcoming release, One, which you say was inspired by “a 3-year journey through love and heartbreak”? What was the writing process like for this album? And what is the story behind the name of it?

SM: I am so incredibly excited to release my album. It really has been a long, but amazing journey. I traveled all over writing with some super talented people. I spent about a year just writing my ass off until I built a strong enough repertoire that was ready and worth recording. I did a lot of co-writing, but also wrote alone as well. The title of the record has a few meanings. Literally, it is my first record, but it is also a song on my record. The song is a hopeful tune about following your dreams, and that is exactly what I am doing today.

PEV: With all your traveling, is there one area you wish you could travel around and play that you have not yet?

SM: Yes! I have focused my traveling thus far around the east coast. I would love to make my way out west!

PEV: How have all your friends and family reacted to your career?

SM: My family and friends are my number one fans. They are so supportive and amazing…I absolutely would not be where I am today in my career without them.

PEV: What can we find you doing in your spare time, aside from playing/writing music?

SM: I love being active! I try to get outside as much as I can…go for runs, play tennis, yoga, and so much more. I am also a bit of a health nut! I love to cook delicious food…yummmmm.

PEV: Name one present and past artist or group that would be your dream collaboration. Why?

SM: Wow, there are so many people I would love to collaborate with! I think right now I would choose Joni Mitchell and Sara Bareilles. They are both strong, amazing women and it would be an honor just to be in their presence! Joni Mitchell has a way of crafting these beautiful melodies with powerful lyrics. And Sara Bareilles has a voice that sounds effortless, plus her songwriting is out this world! What a dream come true that would be.

PEV: Is there an up and coming band or artist you think we should all be looking out for now?

SM: I just discovered an amazing singer/songwriter out of Brooklyn. Her name is Hannah Winkler and she is fantastic!!! Definitely check her music out.

PEV: If playing music wasn’t your life (or life’s goal) what would you do for a career?

SM: Music is such a huge part of my life; I think if I weren’t performing, I would still like to have a job that is music related. I studied Communications in college, and have learned a ton about the music business just by being in the industry, and find it very interesting. I would probably pursue a job in artist management, promotion, etc. Of course, I love songwriting, so to be able to do that full time either for myself or for others would be amazing as well.

PEV: So, what is next for Sarah Miles?

SM: The release of my album! It comes out July 16! I will be hitting the road and doing a few shows to promote the album. And in August, I will be making the move to Austin, TX! I could not be more excited about the move – a new adventure, a new music scene, a new culture. Stay tuned. - Pen's Eye View

Sarah Miles - ‘One’
By Elaine Alluin, 6/16/2013
One the debut album of emerging singer and songwriter Sarah Miles.

Miles grew up in Princeton, New Jersey. She has a sweet voice that is laced with a pop and country sound. Her music is heartfelt, relatable and refreshing with her harmonious voice and catchy lyrics.

Miles said on her website SarahMilesMusic.com, "It's been a 3-year journey. I went through love, heartbreak, moved to New York City, went on the road, and explored collaborating with other songwriters. I've grown so much as a person and an artist. This is the opening ceremony for me-these are the most confident songs I've written."

Her music reminds me of Kelly Clarkson and Carrie Underwood. The first single on the album is “Middle Of Nowhere” which is a fun, upbeat pop song that has the twist of country swag. This song kicks off album as the first few songs of the album mirror the same sound and theme of love.

In the songs “You’re Not,” “Meet Me There,” and “Gray,” she takes a slower, intimate, and dramatic shift. These songs are mellow and seem and revolve around a lost love and falling of a relationship as Miles reflects on the situation with sincere lyrics. Miles is talking about a cheating lover with the lyrics “I’m sitting on my bed just waiting for you/ With no clue who you are with or when you’ll be through/You claim that you miss me when you could be by my side but you’re not.”

“One” starts off slow and turns into a catchy pop country rock ballad. Miles is talking about coming of age and living her dream with the lyrics, “One, big decision to leave the home I’ve ever known” and “Here I am on my own in the city filled with unknown.”

Miles ends the album strong with the song “I Don’t Wanna See You” as she returns to the same musical intensity that the first song, “Middle Of Nowhere,” had. The album comes full circle and presents Miles as a strong, independent and passionate artist. - The Celebrity Cafe

It is very rare to find an artist that not only has a special voice but outstanding song writing ability too. I believe that Sarah Miles has the talent and drive to become a successful songbird like Joni Mitchell, Taylor Swift and Sara Bareilles.

Her raw and poignant lyrics matched with a likeable tone and catchy hooks means that she is definitely an exciting artist to discover.

Growing up in Princeton, New Jersey Sarah was the youngest child to ever to be admitted to NJ’s prestigious Westminster Conservatory Children's Choir. She was a member of various a cappella groups, where she toured Sweden, Newfoundland, and Toronto, and performed at The White House and on the Today Show.

After studying at University, she moved to New York to pursue music fulltime. As a solo artist, her music has been featured on The Voice, and she has also toured with many acclaimed singer-songwriters.

On July 16th Sarah Miles is releasing her first début album titled One. As well as working on her début album she has also co-wrote with esteemed singer-songwriters such as Kenny Rogers, Ronnie Dunn and Tim McGraw.

Miles talks about the journey she has made making her first album she said that ‘It has been a three year journey, I went through love, heartbreak, moved to New York City, went on the road, and explored collaborating with other songwriters. I’ve grown so much as a person and an artist. This is the opening ceremony for me – these are the most confident songs I’ve written.’

The first single I listened too was titled Stand Up; this breezy track has an emboldening message about following your dreams. With sun-kissed vocals and a Taylor-Swift-Like-Guitar-Melody this is the perfect uplifting pop track with a dash of folk and country roots. The intro sounds extremely similar to Taylor Swift’s song 22 but when the melody kicks in that comparison soon vanishes.

The other single is called Take the Lead, another guitar infused track with a ballad like quality this refreshing track is a beautiful blend of Sarah’s angelic voice and an idyllic male harmony that belongs to singer-songwriter Matt Duke. Within the lyrics there are some beautiful phrases, a very promising song indeed – the definition of acoustic perfection.

Sarah Miles has gorgeous flowing dynamics as a singer, her song writing is empowering, authentic, and stylistically it touches upon several genres including folk, pop, and country.

These two singles are an infectious blend of accessible song craft and bold emotional sincerity. This artist has been an exciting new discovery and I can’t wait to hear her album.

To me her sound is a mixture or Taylor Swift, Sarah Bareilles and Britt Nicole all rolled into one. She has definitely earned her place on my Itunes.



Read more: http://www.femalefirst.co.uk/music/reviews/single/music-299681.html#ixzz2bOGlpQyH - Female First

This album was provided in digital format in exchange for an honest review but that does not influence my opinion at all.

Had to state that before going any further because I sincerely enjoyed the debut album of Sarah Miles. Packed with a combination of country, folk, pop, acoustic, and soft rock songs, One is like a soothing soundtrack to the warm summer days and the bitter-sweetness of relationships and life. I cannot express enough how absorbing and easy to love these songs are, and I feel my review may not truly interpret the greatness of the album. But go on this journey with me as I give you a break down of my reaction to every single track:

Middle of Nowhere takes things on the road and I all but jump up from in front of my laptop and start air playing a guitar. I like how the track heightens its intensity as it gets to the hook. The words, the instruments, everything is impressionable. I find I can relate with the words greatly and that’s a good thing because Sarah’s lyrics are rather poetic and in depth. It’s a song about love loss and loneliness. A bit sad, but I’m in love with it. The album version sounds different from the one in the music video. But no complaints here because as much as I love that uptempo country drenched beat in the original, the latest sounds much more emotional in delivering the purpose of the words.


Love the opening strings and those flowing harmonies in Just So You Know. By the time the second track kicks in my expectations are high because I’m hearing music that represents solidity, lyrically and in sound. Just So You Know is about appreciating love, life, and that special someone in your life that you know might not be there forever. Sarah sings about storing her feelings and holding on to him deeply but not so much as to suffocate the one she loves. This is absolutely sweet and realistic. My favorite lines are the ones leading into the chorus, where the artist carries the notes smoothly.

Bad Intentions has this mystery and intrigue in the music when it starts to play I was beyond compelled to listen. The song tells a story most women have experienced. The guy doesn’t appreciate the love he’s receiving from the girl. Knowing very well he’s not right for her she keeps going back to the situation regardless. Once again, relatable and truthful words. I like the mellowness of the track and how inviting the music and lyrics are. Biggest highlight is the breakdown towards the end of the song.

The first ballad of the album, You’re Not, turned out to be my favorite aside from the lead single and opener. The heart-wrenching number is like a continuation from the previous where the guy is so wrong for the girl but she loves him in spite of the hurt he brings to her. The singing is beautiful; the words are beautiful; the overall composition of the track is just beautiful. I’m near tears listening to it over and over. There’s repetition in the hooks expressing so much ache and Sarah’s emotional tones just tug at my heart from start to finish. You’re Not is breathtaking. Just wow. I can’t think of anything other way to describe the perfection of the song, aside from implore you to listen and listen, and listen again.

Stand Up brings back a upbeat groovy appeal that has me moving. The song is encourages you to face the world with a sense of boldness. I like the elements used; not too loud not too laid back. Its just right. This is a great number fitting for a intimate setting in a lounge, or jiving in your house when you’re looking for a pick-me up.

Break in Two is another upbeat number but intense at a higher level. The song brings in a fierce rock vibe enforcing greatly what the singer is trying to communicate. Love that break down during the bridge. The song is catchy, addictive, and mainstream worthy. You’ll only fall in love with it on first listen. Just like I fell in love with Meet Me There the moment those melodies came in. And that hard-hitting beat is just sensual, as vivacious as the lyrics. How fitting is about falling and letting go of everything else to simply bask in a thing called romance. I sense single appeal deeply in this one. Love how it sweetly fades out with only Sarah’s vocals in the end. Definitely another favorite :)

The album title, One, signifies strength and courage. The artist sings about the never-ending journey of chasing after her dreams. It’s as real as it comes because it’s simply Sarah’s story recorded in under four minutes. But as incomparable as she is musically, Sarah acknowledges people like you and me also pushing hard to realize our dreams. In a sense, this is the anthem for dream chasers. The biggest highlight, aside from the powerful lyrics, are those guitar riffs.

Another exceptional ballad. Gray is a breathy and haunting number. The track extends further from the obvious sad concept, as the words sail passionately on a cloud of emotion which also depicts the singer trying to be okay amidst the grief. It’s - Embrace You Magazine

As a child, Sarah Miles would sit and listen to her grandfather play classical music on the piano and marveled at his skill. Music, she decided, was something she wanted to be a part of.

”I would watch him play and he inspired me to take piano lessons,” she says. “Eventually, I started auditioning for some choirs in the area, and performed with the Princeton Girlchoir for nine years.”

She also has the distinction of being the youngest child ever to be admitted to Westminster Conservatory Children’s Choir.

As Ms. Miles entered high school and eventually the University of Vermont, music became even more important to her and she joined every choir and a cappella group she could. It was apparent to all who knew her that music wasn’t just a passion, but would become her way of life.

Thanks to her music, Ms. Miles toured Sweden, Newfoundland, and Toronto, and performed at The White House and on the “Today Show.” Her music has been featured on “The Voice” and she’s opened for notable acts such as Teddy Geiger, Sister Hazel and Pat McGee.

On July 16, the singer-songwriter will release her debut full length album under the Rock Ridge Music label, “One,” a sweetly sincere collection of finely crafted folk-pop inspired by the simple but bold decision to follow her heart.

”I’ve been working on this for three years now, writing a ton. I went to Nashville and New York, and have been working like crazy in the studio to bring these songs to life,” Ms. Miles says. “The title is about my journey to New York City and taking the city by storm and trying to make my dream happen. That’s a huge message I wanted to put across.”

Before this album, Ms. Miles released three smaller EPs (under the name Saraj Jane Wilson), with about five songs each, and her work was critically acclaimed among the music press.

”It’s always a thrill to put out music, but for ‘One,’ it’s much more exciting, because it’s a full album and I had a great team behind me,” she says. “I think when you write a song you know or you don’t if it’s awesome. I knew it would be worth recording and sharing. The main thing for me is following your dreams. I wrote a lot about love and heartbreak — that’s in there, too.”

Ms. Miles has garnered comparisons to everyone from Mariah Carey to Sara Bareilles to Carrie Underwood, and her producer Dave Pittenger infuses “One” with the same sort of popability that has made those three mega-stars in the industry.

As she looks to her future in music, Ms. Miles is moving to Austin, Texas, a place with a lot of opportunities for singer-songwriters like her, and a land she feels is perfect for the type of music she plays.

”I would describe my music as indie pop meets country,” she says. “I grew up listening to James Taylor, Carly Simon, Joni Mitchell . . . all these great songwriters, but I’m also really attracted to catchy pop songs. If you combine those two, that’s what my music sounds like.”

Ms. Miles will be touring to support the new album with appearances at New York’s Bowery Electric on July 17; Philadelphia’s Tin Angel on July 18; and Boston’s O’Brien’s on July 23.

Although she doesn’t have any planned dates in New Jersey yet, she expects to come soon and wants to thank all of those in the area who have supported her through the years.

”I would not be where I am today without those who supported me; my friends, family and the stores in Princeton who have sold my CDs. It’s been amazing,” she says. “I will be there to play as soon as I can. Princeton is my roots and I’ll be back all the time.” - Central Jersey.com (Princeton Packet Newspaper)

Sarah Miles’ latest release, aptly called Hear Me Out, will command your attention from the moment you press play. Her beautiful voice will no doubt capture your heart and hold onto it for good. I can’t wait to hear what’s next! Sarah was kind enough to do a Q&A session with us and I must say: she is lovely! Thank you, Sarah! You can read our Q&A below!:

I really like that you chose to include 5 songs on your latest EP (which is more than most), what makes those 5 songs extra important to you?

I have done a lot of writing over the past year and a half…some writing alone and some writing with others. I’m part of a songwriting group where I am given a phrase or word each week and must include it within the song. It’s been a really interesting experiment, as I had to push myself to write outside of my comfort zone. Through all of the writing, I feel like I have truly discovered my sound and have realized the type of music that I want to make. That is why I am particularly proud of these songs. They come from my heart and soul- both musically and emotionally.

I also love the title. What inspired you to call it “Hear Me Out”?

I wrote the song “Hear Me Out” in a down moment of uncertainty. The music industry is so difficult, and after multiple moments of being turned down for this or that, or playing a show or two to only the bartender, I was feeling pretty depressed about my career. I kept thinking, what’s the point of playing music if no one is there to listen? It can be very frustrating. But there are also moments of pure bliss, and those are the times that keep me going. So to get out of my occasional rut, I sit down and write. And this was one of the songs that came out of that feeling of frustration. I decided to make it the title as I felt like any one could relate to it…not just musicians. Everyone goes through ups and downs. And everyone deserves the chance to be heard.

Sarah Miles - Hear Me OutWhat is your favorite memory from the recording process?

Recording this EP was so inspiring and a lot of fun. We were able to record it in my producer’s home, which made it very comfortable and easy. All of the musicians that played on the record were and are so incredibly talented; it made it easy to put these songs together. It felt very organic the way it all came together. I think one of my favorite memories was when the string player came to town and recorded multiple parts on each song. Slade Adams, my string player, turned into a complete orchestra after all the tracks were put down! It was pretty amazing and it sounded beautiful live.

Are you planning to release a full-length album soon?

I have so many songs that I would love to record. I continue to write very frequently and would love the chance to get back in the studio to record again. At the moment however, I want to promote this new EP as much as possible and really try to get out there. I’m sure new music will come soon though!

How have your goals changed since you first started recording? And what are some big things you have learned about being a professional musician?

I have grown so much since the first time I ever recorded my first album. Not only have I grown with my songwriting, but also I have grown as a musician and guitar player. I feel so much more comfortable playing and recording my own guitar parts. I also feel more confident in expressing my opinions in the studio, saying what I like and don’t like, as well as inputting possible ideas.

One of the most important lessons I have learned is that you should never be afraid to express your ideas and opinions! I was very shy growing up, and it took me awhile to open up and be my true self. It is so incredibly important to speak your mind. You could be holding back a great idea! Don’t be afraid of your own talent. Take control!

If you had to name the 3 albums that you go to for inspiration, what would they be?

I am a huge Joni Mitchell fan. I love her album “Blue” and constantly look for inspiration listening to that. I also love Brandi Carlisle. Her album “The Story” is up there for me. Her singing and writing is amazing. And last but certainly not least, Sara Bareilles is a huge inspiration for me. I recently saw her in concert and was brought to tears! She has a voice like an angel and her songwriting is just fantastic. There is always new music that I am hearing that inspires me, but those definitely stand out the most.

Anything else you’d like to add?

I just want to take the time to thank everyone who helped me put this EP together. I created a Kickstarter to raise money for the EP, which was successfully funded (yay!!). Without the help from my fans, friends and family, this music would not be available! I am so thankful for their help and support. It truly means the world to me. - Find Your Fav

NYC singer-songwriter Sarah Miles has announced that her third album, Hear Me Out, will be released on July 22. This time around, her fans helped fund the project through a Kickstarter campaign.

Because she is awesome, fans responded and supported her campaign.

After writing a song a week over the last year, and touring the country playing the new material, she is ready for the world to "hear her out."


Miles met with her producer, Brian T. Murphy a few months before she recorded the album. "We were doing a lot of writing together initially and through this experience I knew right away that he was the one to produce the album. Something just clicked with Brian," says Miles. "I could tell that he got my sound, and I loved the way he played the piano; with such feeling. When we played together in sessions, everything sounded the way I wanted my music to be heard. Brian introduced me to some talented musicians that ended up playing on the album. The instrumentals sound so perfect with my melodies, I'm just thrilled. He really nailed it."

Will you hear Sarah Miles out?

Maggie Pannacione
07.09.14 - Artist Direct

At Wordkrapht, we love it when artists we’ve covered in the past, come to us with new music. You may have seen Sarah Miles on our website before with the review for her album, One, and her song, “Middle Of Nowhere,” was featured on our Hand-Kraphted CD sampler in April, 2013.

In the past year, Miles has been writing a song a week, and decided to start a Kickstarter campaign in order to create an EP featuring some of those songs. After watching a lot of other musicians succeed with the website, she decided to go to her fans for some assistance. Her fans came through and Miles successfully received enough funding to get to work on her latest release, Hear Me Out.

At first listen, Miles is begging the listener to give her music a chance with the title track. With a heavy bass drum throughout the song, Miles is trying to get the attention of her audience (or a certain special someone) to get her point across. With lyrics like, “You don’t know how hard I tried,” you can tell that Miles is trying to prove herself.

On “Rigid Frame” and “Don’t Wanna Wait,” the theme of a lost love and starting over is very apparent. “Rigid Frame” is a slower track with the guitar portraying quick, yet soft sounds along with beautiful harmonies – something Miles excels at. This song is about starting over and having the strength to move on with lyrics like, “I can barely hear your sound, with my heart on the ground, but I can pick it up.” As sad as “Rigid Frame” sounds, Miles is trying to stay strong and positive in order to move on. “Don’t Wanna Wait” has quicker paced lyrics with a catchy beat in a song that is clearly about not wanting to wait for this lover anymore and realizing it’s time to say “See ya!” “Don’t Wanna Wait” is one of those songs that would easily get stuck in your head. You’ll probably end up singing the chorus over and over again.

“I Miss You” and “I Believe I’ll Go Back Home” have a similar sound with a peaceful, sweet vibe. “I Miss You” has Miles showing a more vulnerable side with relatable lyrics, as many of us have had or have someone we miss every day. Like most songwriters, Miles is able to present a song that could be interpreted however the listener would like. Long distance love? The one who got away? You be the judge.

The presence of the strings and piano on the Hear Me Out EP brings in an extra element with the beauty of Miles’ voice. Hear Me Out is evidence that Sarah Miles is an artist who continues to grow and create beautiful music for the world to enjoy. Like her previous album, One, Miles presents a group of tracks that enables the listener to easily relate to the lyrics, an example of a successful songwriter. Be on the lookout for Miles’ tour dates, as she’ll be touring to promote this EP that her faithful fans assisted in bringing to life. - WordKrapht

New York based singer/songwriter, Sarah Miles, is making a name for herself with her recently released EP, appropriately entitled ‘Hear Me Out.’ Citing such influences as Sara Bareilles, Ingrid Michaelson, James Taylor, and Joni Mitchell, it is safe to say that with her multi-genre sound, Miles is bringing a fresh prospective to the country genre. Gearing up for her debut at Nashville’s esteemed Bluebird Café on August 17th, I had the opportunity to speak with her before she dives into the Nashville scene.

As an independent artist, Miles has won songwriting awards, had her song “Something About You” appear on NBC’s The Voice, and has even become a YouTube sensation, notably, with almost 65,000 views on a video cover of Avicii’s “Wake Me Up.” With such a great response, she even released it on iTunes. After a chance meeting with a photographer/videographer in New York City, Miles began posting videos of her performing cover songs, hoping someone would find their way to her original music. “When I noticed that more and more people were putting out these videos on YouTube, I thought it would be a great way to reach out to people.”

While building her catalog, over the past year she has written at least a song per week. A destined co-write with songwriter/producer Brain T. Murphy prompted the musical team to record the songs they had been working on, which eventually evolved into her album. On working with Murphy, Miles said, “We just clicked really well and we were doing some awesome songs together. He is actually more of a producer than a songwriter, so once we had a couple of songs, I was like ‘why don’t we actually record these.’” The social media engagement of Miles’ career prompted her to use a Kickstarter campaign to fund the project. Miles continued to describe the recording process as “super organic,” having recorded the entire EP in Murphy’s Brooklyn apartment.

Although all five tracks on ‘Hear Me Out’ are country infused, the one that particularly stands out is “Rigid Frame.” With such honest lyrics, Miles crafted a heartbreaking picture of a withering relationship against a memorable, hopeful melody. “We can find a solid ground, force a smile and then see the sun rise up again, this I know.” When asked what inspired the song, she said, “It ended up being one of these songs that kind of poured out of me and I wrote it in like 30 minutes.”

When looking at her touring history, Miles has shared the stage with a range of artists, including such names as Tyler Hilton, Teddy Geiger, Tony Lucca, and even Sister Hazel. She cites touring with Teddy Geiger as “definitely a highlight.” As an opening act to Sister Hazel, in front of a sold-out Florida crowd, Miles remembers that moment as one of her “most amazing experiences.”

If you’re in the Nashville area, be sure to check out Sarah Miles at The Bluebird Café this Sunday, August 17th at 7:30PM CST. After her Nashville performance, Miles will head back to New York City for her full-band EP Release Party at The Bitter End on September 6th, followed by college shows on the East Coast. We love ‘Hear Me Out,’ and after one listen, we know you will too. - The Shotgun Seat

Beautiful, crystal clear voice and feel-good lyrics lead “Don’t Look Down,” which Sarah Miles exclusively premieres on The Shotgun Seat today. The carefree love song was co-written with Chris Gelbuda, who also produced the track.

“Don’t look down just yet / cause’ we’re flying high right where we are / and we can forget the rest / With our hearts in the clouds yeah as long as we keep believing it / together, we can stay like this forever.”

Miles highlights having one’s “heart in the clouds,” in the song, focusing on those carefree stages during the first few months of a new relationship. It’s also a bit of a cautionary tale – there’s doubt down below, so Miles is living in the moment instead. Artists like Kelsea Ballerini have had massive success with her pop-country sound, and Miles’ smooth style is sure to connect with listeners as well.

Be sure to check out her live performance of the single on Facebook Live. You can also follow her on Instagram, Twitter and on her website.. - The Shotgun Seat