Matreya On the Making Of “Eagles”
How does "Eagles" reflect your musical journey and growth as an artist?
The song itself is about growth—having the courage to step out of your comfort zone and into the unknown because, well, we all know what happens to the snake when it can’t shed its skin. When producing the framework for the record, I wanted to unify all the genres that have inspired me up to this point—R&B, Afrobeats, Kirtan, Funk, Cinematic Film Scores—a total mishmash. I set out to write something that felt like a mantra for persistence and resilience, and altogether, it has created a new, fresh sound for me.
What impact do you hope this song will have on your audience?
Ironically, I hope it gives a sense of hope. That whatever has happened to you, on the other side of pain lies redemption, rebirth, renewal. You can only hope that your art inspires and evokes emotion, but once you offer it to the world, it’s out of your hands.
What was your favorite moment in making the music video?
We had to climb to a ridge on the side of a mountain in Glencoe, Scotland, overlooking a sweeping valley and three mountain peaks called ‘The Three Sisters.’ The video was shot in the Scottish Highlands, and we were exhausted, but the sun was setting beautifully, and we had to shoot quickly to capture the colors. Being there, with that view, the whole thing felt like a pilgrimage for me—not just a music video.
Was there a pivotal moment in your life when you decided to follow your path as a musician?
I’d say this moment happened in sixth form, I was about 17 years old, and I had the chance to either go to university or try my luck touring as a musician. My music tech teacher at the time told me to just go for it, and I’m glad I did—I’ll never forget him. That said, I also look back and remember being a small child, watching Freddie Mercury at Live Aid, completely mesmerized by his performance. Maybe our paths are decided in those moments too.
What role do you feel emotions play in your music, and how do you channel them into your performances?
When I’m writing or producing, my emotions become the fabric I use to weave my music. I think the goal as an artist and performer is to truly get a hold of what you’re feeling—which isn’t always easy, since emotions can be hidden or unclear. But once you can decipher them, and most importantly, accept them, they become available for you to use as creative energy—whether that’s through a really beautiful song or a powerful live performance.
