Singer-songwriter and American Idol season 8 finalist Megan Joy released her album Free to Fly onJanuary 14. This release is the first since Megan successfully fan-funded her debut, self-titled album in 2012. While writing and recording in LA and NY, she collaborated with Goldfinger frontman & producer John Feldman (We Are The In Crowd, The Veronicas), Peter Zizzo (Jennifer Lopez, Celine Dion), Bleu (Demi Lovato, Selena Gomez), and Scott Simons (Drake Bell, Chris Rene). 
Megan swept the nation as a ‘Top 10’ American Idol Season 8 finalist. Soon after the dust settled, she spent two years touring, writing and recording her own blend of songs, which would quickly blossom into her highly anticipated self-titled album. In 2014 Megan launched her own record label Loud Meow Music, and with it, her brand new album Free to Fly. 
Ghettoblaster recently caught up with Joy (who is married to The Used guitarist Quinn Allman, her partner in Loud Meow) to discuss the album.  This is what she told us.
When did you begin writing the material for your most recent album?
I began the writing process for Free To Fly four years ago! I traveled back and forth from SLC to LA and NY for a year and co-wrote 23 songs. I split the songs in half, raised enough money (through kickstarter.com) to re-record nine of them for my first album then It took a couple years to obtain the rights to release the previously recorded other 12. It was an insane process to get these songs out. My husband and I recently launched our own label, Loud Meow.  I’m SO excited to be in control of everything I create and put things out when and how I want to!
What was the most difficult song to take from the initial writing stage through recording and mixing?  Why was it so troublesome?

Making each song was a two day process. I would meet with a producer, spend one day writing a song and the next day recording it. It was happening so fast that there was never a time where a song even had a chance to change.
Did you have any guest musicians play or sing on the record?

 No special guests this time…except that each producer/co-writer is completely wonderful and made the music so, so good.
Who produced the record?  What input did that person have that changed the face of the record?
Seven of these songs were produced by John Feldmann, two by Bleu,one by Scott Simons  and one by Peter Zizzo….. They made each song incredible but no one’s input really even came up. We made beautiful music together then I put it all together.
Is there an overarching concept behind your new album that ties the record together?

 I would say that the overall concept of this album is strength and the ability to overcome challenges, especially when it comes to relationships. I wanted several songs in a row that would be upbeat and positive.  It’s a get-you-through-a-rough-day album.
Have you begun playing these songs live and which songs have elicited the strongest reaction from your fans?
I’ve played some of these songs live a handful of times. Playing live hasn’t been the focus of my career yet, but I can’t waaaaait to tour and get back on stage! I’m a mom and family comes first, but that’s all being planned and prepared for! Amazing times ahead!
(Purchase Free to Fly on iTunes, here: http://bit.ly/1ji5j9a.
Check out more on Megan Joy:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MeganJoyMusic
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Meganjoysings
Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/user/meganjoysings)