Steven Keene talks about his new album ‘Notice Me’
From “DigitalJournal.com” June August 6, 2025
Singer-songwriter and musician Steven Keene chatted about his new studio album “Notice Me.”
How did you approach the song selection process for the new album?
This album is a blend of originals and covers, which felt like a natural balance for me.
While recording the original tracks, I found myself wanting to include a few songs that have stuck with me over the years – some of my all-time favorite covers written by songwriters I deeply admire.
It was less about a rigid process and more about following a feeling – what felt emotionally honest and creatively aligned in the moment.
The originals came from personal experience and reflection, and the covers helped round out the story I wanted the album to tell.
What is your personal favorite song on the album?
It’s hard to choose, but for the covers, I’d say “Moving On” by Leonard Cohen stands out. There’s something timeless and vulnerable in that song that resonates deeply.
As for the originals, “Yes and No” is the one I keep coming back to. It captures a kind of emotional contradiction that feels very human to me.
What inspires your music and songwriting?
Honestly, a lot of it comes to me in dreams. The melodies are often there when I wake up.
Lyrically, I’m drawn to humor, observation, and a touch of sarcasm – sometimes all at once.
I try not to overthink it. I just pay attention to what feels honest and what might provoke a reaction, whether that’s a laugh, a sigh, or just a moment of recognition.
How does it feel to be an artist in the digital age?
I don’t think about it much when it comes to the actual songwriting or creative process. That part remains the same: me and the music.
I did write a song called “Notice Me” that sums up how I feel about the noise and expectations that come with social media, streaming, and constant visibility.
It’s a weird time to be an artist – you’re supposed to be both deeply introspective and constantly online. I try to stay grounded in the music and let the rest sort itself out.
What is your advice for young and emerging artists?
This is usually where people say, “Follow your dreams,” or “Never give up,” but I don’t really subscribe to blanket advice like that. Some young artists should absolutely follow their dreams.
Others might be better off keeping their day job or listening to their parents and becoming plumbers, car mechanics, or social workers—and there’s no shame in that.
Creativity looks different for everyone, and not everyone needs to turn their passion into a career. My advice: Be honest with yourself about what you’re doing and why you’re doing it.
What do your plans for the future include?
To keep writing and recording. That’s really the heartbeat of everything I do. I’ve already got the next album more or less finished in my head and now I just have to get it out into the world.
What does the word “success” mean to you?
To me, success is simple: it’s when the song is finished. That moment when you step back, listen, and know it’s done. That’s the win.
What would you like to say to your fans?
Thank you for listening. That means more than anything to me. In a world where people are constantly pulled in a thousand directions, the fact that someone chooses to spend a few minutes with a song I wrote is never lost on me.
Whether you’ve been there since the beginning or just found my music yesterday, I’m grateful. Every stream, every share, every message – it’s what keeps this whole thing going.
His album “Notice Me” is available on digital service providers by clicking here.
To learn more about singer-songwriter and musician Steven Keene, check out his official website, and follow him on Instagram.
