Robyn Elliot On the Making Of “Tide”
What was the creative process like for this particular "Tide?"
Long. It’s been a very long process. Originally the lyrics and melody were slightly different and it was slower with a lot of harmonies. However, when it was ready to be mastered I played the song to my sister (my biggest critic) and we both knew it wasn’t quite right so we sat down and went through it together changing the lyrics and melody slightly. One of my teachers/ mentors also said that it could use more ‘colour’ and at that point I already knew I kind of wanted to change the vibe. So then, after quite a few months, I started the recording process over again with a lot more clarity and created “Tide” as it is now.
Were there any challenges or breakthrough moments during the songwriting process for "Tide?"
At the start, it was quite challenging finding the right sound and direction to take the song in and then when I started working with producer Alex Riguiero (Avi Kytes) and we laid down the bones of the track there was a bit of an ‘Ahhhh’ singing angels moment and I knew we were headed in the right direction.
What do you like the best about "Tide?"
I think the adlibs in the final two choruses maybe? It’s hard to say - I feel like it really is my first little baby.
Could you share some of your musical influences and how they have shaped your sound?
My three biggest influences are probably Fleetwood Mac, Florence and the Machine and Carole King. I think you can definitely tell I’m a Fleetwood lover from “Tide” as it’s got an 80s Fleetwood Mac feel. I also just love Stevie Nicks - I think she’s incredible and sooo powerful. Then I also admire Florence and the Machine’s ability to transport you to a different world almost with their dreamy and haunting melodies. My Mum loves Carole King and a few years ago now we went to the musical and l just loved it and since then I’ve admired her songwriting.
Where do you find inspiration for your songs or musical ideas?
I haven’t written about a particular situation which is personal to me yet - I think that’s incredibly revealing and vulnerable. Of course, there will come a time when I will end up eventually writing songs personal to my life, but for the time being, inspiration and ideas tend to come from my friends’ lives and the people surrounding me.