GET TO KNOW: Rebecca McDonnell

From performing with orchestras to producing every element of her own recordings, Rebecca McDonnell has built a career defined by curiosity, craftsmanship and creative independence. A classically trained violinist, violist and accomplished multi-instrumentalist, she has forged a distinctive path that blends technical precision with an instinctive approach to songwriting and modern rock production.

Her latest single 'Won't Regret It A Bit' captures that spirit perfectly. Driven by infectious hooks, a propulsive rhythm section and an unapologetic sense of confidence, the track is a celebration of trusting yourself, embracing individuality and living life without seeking anyone else's approval. It's a bold statement from an artist who has never been afraid to do things her own way.

So with the new single out now, we sat down with her to discuss her origins and influences over the years.

What was the first band or artist you fell in love with? 

I played in a lot of string ensembles, so I mainly listened to classical music... until I went on tour with the orchestra. We went out to a club one night and I heard the world of Synth Pop.

The Eurythmics with Annie Lennox, Yazoo with Allison Moyet and Depeche Mode were the first three that were my favorites I could not get enough of.

Did you ever form a band when you were younger and if so, what did they sound like? 

Yes! We were called "Rapid Fire" and we played classic Rock. Ozzy Osborne, Neil Young and Pat Benetar were among the artists on our playlist. It sounded like guys with loud guitars and drums...and then there was me, the lead female vocalist. I had to belt out the vocals!

What has been your primary inspiration in writing music? 

My inspiration is to do great things in the recording studio. It's one thing to have the song in my mind when I write it, but having it come to life in the studio is where I get the inspiration for the ideas and motifs to grow. I got interested in Music Technology because of how fascinating it is to take a recording and put a cool plug in on it that takes it to another level. The perfect reverb. A Vintage microphone.. Then getting the vocal just right, getting the mood the way I want it, making sure the bass and the drums are tight, it all comes together. It all started with an idea I had in my brain that I took into the recording studio.

What is a song you wish you had written yourself? 

There are so many great songs! How to choose just one? I will go with "You're No Good" written by Clint Ballard, but brought to life years later by Linda Rondstadt. A multi-instrumental studio arrangement used bass guitar, electric guitar, drums, percussion, electric piano, vocals and strings. A fantastic melody and guitar solo, and a really well written song.

If there was any moment in your career you could relive, what would it be? 

I played a concert at Saratoga Performing Arts Center in Saratoga New York. The acoustics were amazing! The feeling of being on that stage was incredible. It was with The Saratoga Orchestra and we played Beethovan's Ninth Symphony that evening. A great memory that I look back on often.

Which artist would you most love to share a stage with? 

I would love to share a stage with John Mayer. I love his style and vocals. I think we would complement each other well. Acoustic guitar is the perfect accompaniment to my violin and voice.

And is there an artist you would love to collaborate with as well? 

Yes, I would love to collaborate with Bruno Mars. This man is so talented. He plays most of the instruments on his songs and writes everything too. He has written so many hits for other artists and for himself. It would be an honor to work with him.

Where do you see yourself in five years time? 

I want to keep on doing everything I do- singing, playing, producing, engineering, composing... and perhaps eventually get into sync licensing. I see myself working with other producers and exchanging ideas about sound. I want to keep discovering new things in music, new melodies that will be remembered and be a game changer in my genre.

Listen to Rebecca McDonnell's new single 'Won't Regret It A Bit' below.