Sophomore Communications major Allie McDonald is an Open Mic pro. This multi-talented singer/songwriter/ukelele-master stole our hearts from the start with her blend of lovely vocals and cheeky lyrics, and we’re still hooked. We recently got the chance to ask Allie a few questions about music, performing, and Open Mic with M.E…

How long have you been playing music?

 I have been taking violin lessons/participating in all of those nerdy regional and all New-England orchestras since I was in 4th grade. I didn’t start writing until I began teaching myself the guitar and the piano when I was 16. I picked up the ukulele about a year ago and I am now completely obsessed. I started doing the whole Youtube thing as soon as I had written my first song. The videos were prettttty bad at first, I’ll admit. But, I owe a LOT to youtube. Definitely an aspiring musician’s best friend. 

What makes a song “coverable” to you?

For me, I like to cover songs by artists that don’t play the same type of music as I do. I love a challenge. I think some of the most interesting covers are unexpectedly different from their originals. My favorite is covering rap songs on my ukulele. 

What inspires you to create original material?

Almost all of my songs are based on true stories-usually involving boys that I am secretly in love with. I have also been known to write a mean song or two. Break my heart? I’ll write a song about it. Hah, this is probably why I have no boyfriends. 

When did you first perform at Open Mic in The Living Room? What was it like?

I first performed at Open Mic the second week of my Freshman year. I was beyond nervous-shaking hands, shaking knees. But, it was one of the best experiences - I felt amazing afterwards. Since then, I try to go to Open Mic as often as I can. 

What is your favorite part of performing at Open Mic?

Everyone at Open Mic is extremely supportive! I forget lyrics all the time-even to my own songs, so it’s nice to have people cheering you on, regardless. 

If you could duet with anyone in the world who would it be and why?

I would love to collab with the Arctic Monkeys. I’ve been a fan for years, and I dig their style. But, mostly I’d love to work with them so that I could force them to speak to me all day long with british accents. 

What are your plans after graduation?

After graduation, I would love to keep pursuing music. Even if i’m homeless, struggling to pay off college loans, I will still be playing music!

Experience Allie’s awesomeness first-hand right here with her cover of Lana Del Rey’s “Born to Die” at Open Mic:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w_4OS6zU3n0