Q&A Canadian Indie-Pop Artist Dover Lynn Fox Reflects on Growth and Memories in New Single "When Youth Was Wasted"
DOVER LYNN FOX IS BACK with a brand new single, "When Youth Was Wasted," a wistful look back at summer memories and the choices we make that shape our lives. The song is the lead single from her upcoming EP, Low Moon, an introspective collection that explores themes of change, self-reflection, and the enduring power of memories.
In this interview, Dover Lynn Fox dives into her creative process, the inspiration behind "When Youth Wasted," and how her music is shaped by both personal experiences and the vast Canadian landscape. She discusses the influence of a dark Canadian winter on the song's themes of nostalgia and summer yearning, as well as how her songwriting is informed by a wide range of musical genres and literary influences.
Dover Lynn Fox also offers insights into the upcoming Low Moon EP, describing it as "bolder and more personal" than her previous work. The album represents her growth as an artist and the contrasting elements of life's hardships and natural beauty that inspire her songwriting. Read below to learn more about the new track, the making of Low Moon and her plans for the spring season.
LUNA: Congratulations on your latest single, "When Youth Was Wasted"! Can you tell us about the inspiration behind the song and how it fits into the broader themes of your upcoming EP, Low Moon?
DLF: Thank you for having me! I am excited that When Youth Was Wasted is finally out! It is a song inspired by summer memories and the freedom and spontaneity that comes along with it. It is very much about the choices you make and the lasting effect they can sometimes have. Low Moon is an EP about memories and recollections; stories from my early to mid 20’s, so change is certainly a theme throughout the EP.
LUNA: Your music is often described as a blend of indie-pop, folk, and rock. How do you navigate these genres to create a unique sound that reflects your artistic vision?
DLF: When I was younger there was always music playing in my home and it was a wide range. From John Denver to Nancy Sinatra to Travis, I listened to a lot of different genres. This shaped my musical taste and definitely influenced my musical style. I think all of these sounds had a knock-on effect for my songwriting. It’s no accident that pop, folk and Americana find their way in to my music. It’s an organic process that helps me achieve my artistic vision.
LUNA: "When Youth Was Wasted" explores themes of nostalgia, hindsight, and self-reflection. Can you share more about the creative process behind writing and composing this track, especially during a dark Canadian winter?
DLF: It was a very dark winter and I believe it was record breaking for consecutive days without sun. So, I was constantly thinking about summertime and the things I wanted to do and the places I wanted to revisit. The places I wanted revisit sparked the song. I started writing about the memories and people connected with these places and it became When Youth Was Wasted.
LUNA: You've received praise for your storytelling ability and lyrical depth. How do you approach songwriting to convey heartfelt emotions and connect with your audience on a deeper level?
DLF: I love writing and I try not to overthink the process. Whatever comes out, just comes out. I think similarly with my musical style, the authors that I grew up reading have a cumulative effect on my lyrics. I have always been drawn to pastoral and slice-of-life stories. But, I also love raw and gritty stories, and writers with a genuine and unique narrative voice. So, writers like Ray Bradbury, Shirley Jackson and Walt Whitman are top of my list. Their writing conveys their spirit and I can only hope mine does the same.
LUNA: Your previous singles, "Winter Son" and "Phantom Lover," have garnered attention for their evocative lyrics and captivating melodies. How does "When Youth Was Wasted" build upon these themes while offering a fresh perspective?
DLF: I was in a different headspace when I wrote When Youth Was Wasted. I was doing a lot of contemplating and soul searching. So, I think the perspective is a bit more thought out and deliberate, rather than reactive. With Winter Son I was reacting to unfortunate news and with Phantom Lover I was reacting to the end of a relationship. And those reactions get poured into your music. When Youth Was Wasted is less about reaction. It is more of a statement. Sonically, it is a bit different for me with a more anthemic and driving vibe.
LUNA: As a Canadian artist, how has your upbringing and surroundings influenced your music and songwriting style?
DLF: Two things come to mind. Our landscape and how wide and varied it is, has a definite influence. There are a number of forest trails near my home and this time of year they are starkly beautiful. I was recently in Alberta, near the mountains when the skies opened and as one of the locals said, “dumped snow everywhere.” The contrast between these environments is really significant and I think one of many things that makes Canada unique. The second thing is not about nature and more about the DIY reality of being a musician in Canada. You have to do a lot more than just write songs and find a recording studio.
LUNA: Your upcoming EP, "Low Moon," is highly anticipated. What can listeners expect from this collection of songs, and how does it represent your growth and evolution as an artist?
DLF: It is bolder and more personal. I know that I have changed a lot since my last release and this EP carries me through those landmark moments and shifts. Sonically, it’s bigger. Especially, the title track which sums up the EP in a whirlwind of saxophone, electric guitar and driving vocals.
LUNA: You draw inspiration from both life's hardships and the beauty of the natural world. How do these contrasting elements inform your songwriting process and contribute to the depth of your music?
DLF: I understand the idea that they contrast, but I also think they balance each other out. You can go through something or watch someone endure a tough experience that leaves them broken and with more questions than answers. But, then you’ll watch the sunrise or hear birdsong in the morning. These things are part of something much bigger than us, part of a cycle, and you’re reminded of the beauty that exists around you. It’s there and available regardless of how tough things are.
LUNA: Your distinctive voice has been praised for its power and wistfulness. How do you use vocal expression to convey the emotions and narratives embedded within your songs?
DLF: I wish I had a clever or technical answer to this question. But, I don’t. I suppose that the gap between power and wistfulness, drive and gentleness is dictated by the song and the lyrics, and I sing in step with the mood. Understanding, that mood can change drastically in a three minute song.
LUNA: What intentions do you have for the spring season?
DLF: I plan on getting outside as much as possible, playing some gigs and spending time with my friends and family. On the itinerary is some horseback riding, gardening and buying my dog another “so called” indestructible toy that he will rip apart.
