P&P Spotlight: Mara Liddle

What happens when a rising singer-songwriter sets out to write 100 songs in just three days? The push to just write and a lack of overthinking certainly fuel the process, making the tracks that emerge feel much more natural and authentic. Independent English artist Mara Liddle recently took on this exact challenge, and “Rivers” immediately stood out for its vulnerability. “Rivers” explores the complicated feelings that can arise in relationships when insecurity and comparison start to take hold. Built around intimate production and reflective lyricism, this track captures the desire to measure up to someone you admire, while also searching for a sense of acceptance and emotional clarity. As Mara continues to grow her presence as an independent pop artist, the track shows her versatility, revealing a more introspective side to her songwriting. 

Recently, Playlists & Polaroids had the privilege of catching up with Mara. She shared the story behind “Rivers,” the emotions that shaped its lyrics, and how she uses songwriting to better understand her personal experiences. Keep reading for our full conversation with her! 

Image credit: Mara Liddle; graphic created by Karly Ramnani

YOU'LL LOVE MARA LIDDLE IF YOU LISTEN TO: Gracie Abrams, Lizzy McAlpine, Maisie Peters, Phoebe Bridgers, Clairo, Holly Humberstone, Taylor Swift, Ethel Cain, Sydney Rose

What inspired you to embark on a challenge of writing 100 songs in three months? Of all the songs that came from this undertaking, what made “Rivers” stand out from the rest?

Honestly, I had really bad writer’s block. I was waiting around for ideas to come to me, and nothing was happening, so I decided to set myself a goal and just write a lot of songs without overthinking how they sounded. When I wrote “Rivers,” I really liked how honest and vulnerable it felt. It seemed so true to me, like I was sharing a genuine piece of myself with listeners. I also think the “took a long time, took a long time” refrain is quite catchy.

What prompted you to explore insecurity and comparison in “Rivers”?

When you’re writing that many songs, you start to just write about whatever is on your mind. At the time, I was really feeling like I wasn’t good enough for my boyfriend and that he could probably do much better than me, even though we have been together for five years. That feeling of him being a source of light while I was just water reflecting him and constantly moving came out naturally while I was writing, and I tried to capture that idea in the lyrics.

The song touches on anxious attachment and fear of abandonment. How did these emotions shape the story you wanted to tell in the lyrics?

It’s something I have always struggled with and have written quite a lot of songs about. Three of the five songs on my debut EP touch on it as well, but those are more about searching for evidence that people are lying about their feelings toward me. “Rivers” is more about accepting that it’s a self-esteem issue. It is about acknowledging that you are trying to be someone you are not just to keep people around, and trying to wake up and let go of those feelings, or simply let them wash over you.

Image credit: Mara Liddle

How did you approach putting vulnerable words to the feelings described in the song? Would you say it came to you naturally?

I would say it came naturally, but mainly because I wasn’t overthinking it. When you’re writing that many songs, it almost becomes like writing a diary. You’re writing for yourself under the assumption that no one will ever see it. I wrote “Rivers,” moved on to the next song, and when I came back to it later I thought, wow, this is so real. I really do feel like that.

Do you feel as though writing songs like this helps you better understand your own emotions or experiences?

Oh, for sure. It is a way to work through what you’re feeling, to organize those emotions and find the perfect melody to express them. I think creating any kind of art can show you a part of yourself that you did not even realize was there.

Sonically, “Rivers” feels more intimate and atmospheric compared to some of your earlier releases. What drew you toward that softer sound for this track?

With my other songs, even when they have dealt with serious subjects, they often have a bit of a playful edge that allows them to lean toward a more upbeat sound. “Rivers” was such a raw expression of emotion, so vulnerable and exposed, that I wanted the sound to reflect that. I also think the softer atmosphere allows the lyrics to shine a bit more.

If “Rivers” had a mood board or visual aesthetic, what would it include?

I love a Pinterest moment. Definitely coffee and old books, misty forests, floaty white dresses, horses, and of course rivers.

Your songwriting often reflects life as a girl in her twenties navigating relationships in the digital age. Why is that theme something you keep coming back to in your music?

I feel like everything we do is dictated by the internet these days. We meet people online, share our lives online, and form opinions about others based on what they post on Instagram. It shapes our lives so much that it feels impossible not to talk about it. I also like how those digital themes connect with the electronic pop sound in my music.

Image credit: Mara Liddle

You’ve been steadily building a live presence across the UK. How has performing your songs live shaped the way you approach writing music?

I love performing live so much. It is really fun and allows you to connect with new people. Seeing how audiences react to your music helps you understand what resonates and what might not be hitting the way you expected. At the same time, I write my music for myself, so I am always grateful when people connect with it.

Whether it’s “Rivers” or something else, do you have a favorite song to perform live?

I really like performing “SPIN.” It is such a fun song, and I have done a couple of gigs with dancers where we included choreography, which made it really exciting to perform. I also have a few unreleased songs that I love performing live, but people will just have to come to a show if they want to hear those.

Finally, the Playlists & Polaroids classic! What’s a lyric from “Rivers” that really stands out to you? Walk us through the process of writing it and how it speaks to you personally!

One lyric I really love is “maybe it’s time to wake up, close my eyes and let it wash over.” It feels hopeful, like you are finally able to release the emotions that have been weighing you down. This song really flowed out of me, which feels fitting considering all the water imagery. I think those feelings had been building up inside and needed somewhere to go. It is such a personal song and reflects how I sometimes get stuck in my head in relationships and lose myself along the way. At the same time, it is hopeful and romantic, and hopefully shows that love can still be powerful no matter what you are going through.

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Prior to “Rivers,” fans were already familiar with Mara Liddle’s blending of playful pop sensibilities with emotionally honest lyricism, but this song showcases the softer aspects of her style. The track’s atmospheric sound allows the lyrics to carry the emotional weight of the story, showing how songwriting can become a space for reflection and growth. If “Rivers” is any indication of what lies ahead, listeners can expect even more thoughtful and introspective masterpieces as her artistry continues to evolve. Here’s a playlist we’ve curated to capture her vibe!