Life & Work with Moonshine Mollys

Today we’d like to introduce you to Moonshine Mollys.

Hello Moonshine Mollys, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed with your story and how you got to where you are today.
Our story began when a couple of friends asked Cassandra Smith to sing lead in their bluegrass country group. The three came together and came up with the Moonshine Mollys’ name. The trio put out an album back in 2013 with a collection of favorites and original music. Throughout the years, some members came and went as life would have it. In 2018, Breanna Nixon was introduced to the group as a co-lead singer. The group was an 8-piece country band and by this point, they did cover gigs. Once the pandemic hit, there was a definite change in the dynamic of the group with the connection of Smith and Nixon. 

During those years, the two started writing and finding their sound while working on emotional hurdles that both were dealing with from past trauma. This led to the group’s release of their first single together called “TIME” back in July 2022, with subsequent releases of “By the Rivers Edge” in September 2022, “Midnight Moon” in May 2023, and followed with their EP in December 2023. On this journey, we learned so much about ourselves and decided to do our version of “Why Not Me” Made famous by The Judds. In 2024, we are working on a full-length album. 

We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has not been a smooth road, but is any journey that is worthwhile. For Cassandra, who struggles with anxiety and feeling good enough. Working through this to be able to believe in what she loves, although is fright is real. At the time, Breanna quit music for years, being discouraged, as we were both working with someone who was emotionally abusive.

While in this situation, you do not see the light on the other side. Working through that was a huge hurdle and the two of us coming together was an incredible support for each other. We would not be here today, had we not gone through this. We both have families as well with kids and working as an artist with a family and the ups and downs. It makes for great subject matter for songwriting. 

Breanna’s mother passed away from cancer when she was just 17 and had two kids already at this point. She had to work hard to keep food on the table and a roof over their heads. This was a major hurdle for her to overcome to become the artist she is today. Our song Time was written from a poem that her mom, Beverly Lancaster wrote in 1969. 

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Our music is Americana folk-rock country which we draw on from our daily lives. We are so very proud of our BC Country Music Nomination for the Ray McAuley Emerging Artist/Act for 2023. As well as the Lazie Indie Magazine cover and 8-page spread earlier in the year. 

To be asked to play at the Calgary Stampede and Sunfest Country Music Festival for showcases was a definite highlight. Cassandra is a visual artist in photography and painting with teacher certification. She specializes in living a creative life having multiple avenues for expression. 

Breanna is a hair stylist with an insane talent for making people look incredible. We are most proud of our EP “TIME” which was released in winter 2023. Being able to reach inward and write relatable songs and bring joy to people is a massive accomplishment. The way our voices fit together when we are singing in unison is what makes us stand out. 

People always comment on our harmonies as well. We are grateful for every opportunity that comes our way. 

Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
We support animal welfare and conservation. Also, the support of our community to keep connected is very important for us in our journey. Without it where would we all be? Our music brings people together and keeps us grounded. 

FUN FACTS – Breanna loves whales and pickles are a staple item in her daily diet! Cassandra served in the Navy as a musician and loves falafels! 

Contact Info:

• Website: http://moonshinemollys.ca
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moonshinemollys/
• Facebook: https://www.instagram.com/moonshinemollys/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/mollys_country
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCh3Y8Ng_ej_auFCohxkTnEA

Image Credits
Sarah Katherine Dawe – Photography