Striking Matches: Taylor Mackenzie Mieszkuc on Writing Her First Song at 12

At 19, Taylor Mackenzie Mieszkuc has been making music for a decade. In Part 1, Jessica Curtis and Rob Sermerano explore her beginnings. A third-grade production of Peter Pan first lit the spark for Taylor. By sixth grade, a ukulele turned her into a songwriter. Her first song, “Miss Invisible,” was inspired by Teen Beach Movie. She wrote it about a quiet friend overshadowed by siblings at just 12.

Taylor also discusses her new single, “Matches,” written at fourteen during lockdown. The cinematic “Mulholland Drive” music video by Aria inspired the track. She recalls hearing a full band play “Boy at the Beach” at Black Sheep Studios. The experience was so intense that she nearly had a meltdown on camera. We also get a preview of her upcoming song, “Glimmering Gold.” This personal track explores the search for lasting friendship.

Taylor shares her influences, calling Taylor Swift the “blueprint” for her career. She also admires Conan Gray, Sabrina Carpenter, and Mimi Webb. Her country influences include Megan Moroney and Lainey Wilson. Taylor hopes to inspire everyone who needs a safe space to feel seen. She is currently studying music education at Bloomsburg University. There, she learns everything from piano and percussion to violin. This is clearly only the beginning for her. Stay tuned for Part 2 to go deeper into her incredible story!

The Progress Report blends optimism with action as hosts Jessica Curtis and Rob Semerano highlight the innovations moving America forward. Each episode explores personal stories of resilience and grit, focusing on progress rather than politics. By celebrating local heroes and national figures, the show proves the American story continues.