Smooth and charming, Americana/Folk-Pop artist Randie O’Neil puts her whole self into her writing and performances, using honest and witty lyrics about heartache and strength, paired with catchy melodies. With her roots-inspired sound, she has independently released multiple albums over the years. She will be following up from the widely acclaimed EP “I’m Not That Girl” with her new release, “Here I Stand” this Spring.
O’Neil’s storytelling comes from a sincere place. Her work as an adolescent intervention specialist brings a real-world perspective to her lyrics. Drawing on her own life story of having to survive an abusive alcoholic environment as a child, she helps students navigate a complicated world. Through her songs, she conveys a message of understanding and courage to face problems that almost all of us experience at some point in our lives.
She started playing guitar at a young age. One day, she came home and her alcoholic parents had sold her guitars. she sat on the curb and said, “I’m gonna sing. They can’t take my voice.” It took her many years to find her voice. She had a band AMA (Against Medical Advice) and played the city back in the 80’s. She Left music and went on to get her masters in Counseling specializing in adolescent addiction. Eventually, she got her PhD in Psychology(specialize in Adolescents, certified in anxiety), though she eventually decided to get back to music. There was something missing in her and she had to start writing again. She decided she needed to conquer her demons and pick up the guitar. She cried a lot but was finally able to play and sing her songs.
‘Daddy’s Pride’ I wrote completely in 2o minutes, the only song my producer didn’t change a note. It’s my parents selling my guitars. The biggest failure is for a parent not to teach a child to be proud and support them. I had the strength to stand up and find it on my own. I know many don’t and stay lost and insecure.
