Hailing from the vibrant city of Austin, where creativity lives on every corner, McKenna Michels is a singer-songwriter whose melodies and lyrics resonate deep within the soul. Her heart driven songs give voice not only to the traumas she endured, but to countless nameless survivors who have faced similar challenges in their own lives. Beneath the surface of Michels' melodies lies a story of profound resilience and strength. Her journey through a tumultuous and often abusive childhood relationship with her mother imbues her music with an empowering salve, soothing not only her own wounds but also those who found comfort in her artistry. She says that “music has helped me to forgive and writing has helped me heal.” Taking in the perspectives of others, a skill she gained from moving around frequently as a child, allows her to write from a universal perspective and invites listeners into a place of healing and forgiveness. 2022 saw the release of Michels' debut album, "Enlightenment,” released on Arching Dog along with her first comic book "Survivor" (Big Deal Publications). The poignant singles "Survivor," "Running," and "Born To Die," reached impressive positions on the Billboard Hot AC charts and resonated with listeners of all ages. "Enlightenment" stands as a testament to her unwavering dedication to her craft, and is available on all streaming platforms.