Potent High-Energy and Upbeat Performances

Originating from the Ohio River Valley Basin in Southwestern Indiana, this lively and enchanting duo of wanderlust gets in touch with their audience through lighthearted routines in the course of melodic and eloquent musical interactions, delivering powerful performance and homegrown song. Take pleasure in their unique vocal harmonies and counterpoint guitar playing. These well-rounded traveling minstrels are sure to help you attain your listening bliss. These two passionate, nomadic and seasoned musicians bring a distinctive and bona fide blend of their innovative, amicable and highly fun sparkling folk rock everywhere they perform for the listening enjoyment and quality satisfaction of all.

Widely recognised for their potent high-energy and upbeat performances, sporting rich techniques from several genres, this duo with their deeply touching, of ttimes comical, poetic messages coupled with a shared sense of communal and planetary well-being are sure to satisfy your entertainment delight. Performances and songs delivered with wholesome storytelling flare and heartwarming authenticity, Mariah Dawn Shepherd & the Covert Dragon won't leave you feeling musically deprived.

Interview with Mariah Dawn Shepherd

Question: How would you describe your music?

Mariah Dawn Shepherd: Artistically, I describe our music as a rainbow of infinitely musical bliss. Rationally, I would like to think it's earth-friendly, melodic, and enjoyable to listen to.


Question: Which is your favourite song to perform live and why?

Mariah Dawn Shepherd: My favourite song to perform live is "A Date With Myself". I wrote this song with the intent of it having an uplifting and inspiring message about being able to love yourself so you can love all else. I think that kind of meaning helps a lot of people in a good way.


Question: If you could have anyone, in the world, attend a show, who would it be?

Mariah Dawn Shepherd: If I could have anyone in the world attend one of my shows, I would choose the admirable and brilliant Sir Paul McCartney.


Question: Do you prefer performing live or recording?

Mariah Dawn Shepherd: I greatly enjoy both. They each have their unique elements to offer. Performing live is wonderful. I have the opportunity to reach out and connect with others. I love playing shows because the energy is raw and potent. Recording is so much fun, yet serious at times. While in the studio, I love the intimate setting that allows us to capture our creativity at our own pace. The dynamics of working with a producer is rewarding and fulfilling. The process of building and refining the music is magical.

Question: How did the band come together?

Mariah Dawn Shepherd: We came together through a love of music and poetry. We originally met ten years ago at a coffeehouse during a poetry reading in my hometown of Evansville, Indiana, USA. I had my guitar with me and later that evening, we met for a jam session. We both recognised the beauty and kinship in sharing music together. This opened the way for our future growth in music. Born from this is our current duet, Mariah Dawn Shepherd & the Covert Dragon.


Question: What motivates you most when writing music?

Mariah Dawn Shepherd: When I'm writing music, I start with lyrics in the form of a poem. My inspiration comes from many sources. A lot of the songs I write are based around my love and appreciation for nature. These songs are usually upbeat and joyful. At times I will relate personal struggles around difficult worldly topics; by doing this, I can help others to see another perspective in a challenging set of circumstances.


Question: Which music/artists are you currently listening to?

Mariah Dawn Shepherd: I listen to a wide range of music. A an indie rock band I've recently been introduced to is Crumb. I appreciate their unique sound, especially their song, Part III. I like Mac DeMarco's new song, On The Square. I'm hooked on classic artists like Donovan, Jethro Tull, Jacqui McShee, Jimi Hendrix, and The Moody Blues; I could go on and on. I love different genres of music like metal and punk. My heart gravitates towards folk rock and psychedelic bands of the 60s and 70s.


Question: What or who was your inspiration to go into the music industry?

Mariah Dawn Shepherd: I would have to say that my early fans inspired me the most to go into the music industry. Their continued support throughout my music career has helped fuel my passion to entertain and continue writing songs that are geared to help all of life in the best way possible.


Question: If you could collaborate with another artist, who would it be?
Mariah Dawn Shepherd: I'm joyfully laughing over here because I want to say Sir Paul McCartney, again. What an honor that would be.


Question: What's a typical day like?

Mariah Dawn Shepherd: Currently, we are touring. A typical day is a lot of work with a healthy dose of playfulness mixed in. We travel many miles and rehearse as often as we're able to bring the highest quality show to our audiences. In the middle of all of the above, I reach out to as many different sources as I possibly can with the intent of establishing successful contact to further our musical journeys with the best possible outcomes for all concerned.


Question: What has been your favourite part of becoming a music artist?

Mariah Dawn Shepherd: My favourite part of becoming a music artist is seeing the positive impact my music has had and is currently having on our fans and all of life. It is richly rewarding to know that our songs help people feel good. As a touring musician, I love traveling the world experiencing wonderful places in unique ways. We love meeting and collaborating with other musicians.


Question: Can you share your socials?

Mariah Dawn Shepherd: Absolutely!
Find us on Facebook and Instagram @mds_covert_dragon
Our official website is: www.covertdragon.com

Interview by Brooke Hunter