Mahomet native Onoleigh to feel good summer anthem on Aug. 18

By Alexander Winton

In the heart of Mahomet, a small town in East Central Illinois, comes a burgeoning country artist with a unique sound and a story to tell. 

Meet Onoleigh, an up-and-coming singer-songwriter whose music is making waves in the country music scene. The 2015 Mahomet-Seymour graduate now resides in Nashville, where her unique take on Americana Rock music is drawing attention. 

Onoleigh’s upcoming single, “Why Can’t We Dance?”, to be released on August 18,  is attracting attention with its infectious energy and catchy melody. The inspiration behind the song is as vibrant as its sound. 

“I was kind of in this newfound sound era of my music,” Onoleigh explains. “I needed something that was very much an opener for my show.” 

The song was conceived as a call to let loose and have fun without the pressure of pursuing serious relationships. 

She emphasizes, “I just wanted something playful that would happen live.” The upbeat track is set to become an anthem for living in the moment and enjoying life to the fullest. 

Describing the creative process behind the song’s upbeat and energetic nature, Onoleigh shares, “I feel like during summer, there’s kind of this tendency and this feeling of just wanting to feel free. And I think there’s something about the music that kind of gives you that.” 

While the song might feel like a summer anthem, its lyrics resonate year-round, capturing a carefree spirit that listeners can embrace whenever they need a pick-me-up.

Collaboration plays a crucial role in Onoleigh’s music journey. She worked closely with Jonathan Windham and David Dorn on “Why Can’t We Dance?” Jonathan co-wrote the song with Onoleigh, contributing to its conceptualization. Onoleigh praises David Dorn, a four-time ACM nominee and a key player in the Nashville music scene, for bringing the song to life. 

“David really took it from the drawing board that I made with Jonathan, and then he really brought it to what it is now,” she affirms.

Onoleigh’s background in social work has also significantly influenced her songwriting style and the emotional depth of her music. 

Drawing parallels between the two fields, she says, “There is a psychological side obviously to songwriting, right, because you’re provoking an emotion… And I think social work also helped me not only feel for people, but feel with people.” 

This empathetic approach shines through in her music, which aims to offer hope and a resolution to listeners, much like her social work philosophy.

Returning to her hometown of Mahomet for the Mahomet Music Festival is an emotional experience for Onoleigh. She describes it as “the most emotional weekend of my year.” 

The festival serves as a reunion with family and friends, a chance to reconnect with her roots, and an opportunity to perform for the community that has supported her from the beginning. Onoleigh’s performance at the festival becomes a celebration of her journey, both as an artist and a Mahomet native.

Performing live holds a special place in Onoleigh’s heart. 

“Performing live is genuinely where I feel my most wholesome self,” she shares. 

The stage offers a space where she can be fully present and connect with her audience on a deeper level. Reflecting on her live shows, she emphasizes the power of music to touch people’s lives, saying, “It feels better than doing something that I don’t have connection to.”

As Onoleigh’s music gains recognition from platforms like CMT, Music Row, and Tasty Country, she humbly acknowledges the impact of her journey. 

She reveals, “It’s still very shocking for me, the shock value is always there.” 

Balancing her artistic vision with industry expectations is an ongoing process. Onoleigh emphasizes the importance of authenticity and innovation, saying, “Creating a trend is so much better than following a trend.”

Looking ahead, Onoleigh has exciting projects in the works. She plans to release an EP in the spring, exploring a blend of Americana, rock, and country. Her goal is to hit the road and tour extensively, sharing her music and connecting with a wider audience. Onoleigh’s passion and commitment to her craft shine through in her music, making her a rising star to watch in the country music landscape.

As Onoleigh continues her musical journey, her story remains one of inspiration, authenticity, and a strong connection to her roots. With her unique sound and heartfelt lyrics, she’s set to make a lasting impact on the world of country music.

Onoleigh will take the stage at the Mahomet Music Festival on Aug. 26 at 6:30 p.m.