Songwriter View: Emerging Payton Mahoney
Mattéa Overstreet
One of the most exciting elements of being a “small town” artist is the opportunity to create a big ripple in the landscape of our tight-knit music scene. When a new name flashes across the bill for a show, it’s like a seed has been planted. That ripple has the power to impact, inspire, and ultimately prolong the growth and evolution of our collective sound. I am so fortunate to be in spaces where I can see and experience these emerging artists and witness their artistic catalysts.
I find it even more glorious when the new force on the scene happens to be a sensational and hard-working young woman like Payton Mahoney, a solo artist from Manteca. She’s about a year into her journey, and from what I’ve seen, she’s hitting all the marks and doing so with a humble and growth-oriented approach.
“The most exciting part about coming on the scene has been the learning process. I started off so uncertain on how to approach gigging, but I can feel myself getting more comfortable after each performance. What has been so exciting about building my brand and promoting are the connections I’ve made. I’ve met some wonderful people this past year.”
I first met Payton while working my day job at the MJC Recording Studio, facilitating student recording sessions. I could immediately see a lovely and talented session guitarist and a well-studied, skillful musician. Suddenly I saw her promo blow up for various local gigs, and watched her win first place and a scholarship for her original song “But In June.”
It’s like she doesn’t even know how dope she is yet, and that is the most remarkable thing to witness from a young new artist as they come into their own. The grace and authenticity are all there; when she plays, you can hear it crystal clear.
“My main goal is to create more music. I find that I feel most authentic to myself when I’m writing. Some songwriting advice – Don’t let the fear of rejection come between you and your work. Stay true to yourself. Your audience will come to you. Not everybody is going to like what you have to offer. Keep writing.”
If you can check out Payton Mahoney at a live show, give her a big tip and a round of applause. It’s not an easy game, but she is emerging as a major player.
