Cate O’Conner is set to take her audience on a haunting journey through a darkly twisted fairytale gone wrong in her latest music video, “The Labyrinth.” This cinematic masterpiece, directed by Glennellen Anderson (Stranger Things), weaves a narrative that transcends traditional music videos, exploring themes of self-love and the perils of seeking love in all the wrong places.

In this interview spotlight, I chat with Cate about the new project, AI in the music biz, dream collabs, and more.

Full Q&A along with links and music below.

AI (aka Artificial Intelligence aka Chat GPT 4.0)… How is it changing the music world? What are your thoughts about this new trend?

AI is changing the music world definitely but it’s such a new thing that we don’t really know what the rules of it are. Because AI is drawing from copyrighted music it’s difficult to find the line of what’s protected and what’s not. I think it causes issues for artists like a fear of devaluing their work and a fear of replacing them entirely. 

What is your favorite song of all time? 

My favorite song of all time is Soldier, Poet, King by The Oh Hellos. It’s so beautifully written, poetic, and paints an image and I love music that does that. 

What about this project makes you most proud? Was there a specific goal you were trying to accomplish with this video?

Stepping outside of my comfort zone and just having the courage to release it makes me the most proud. The goal I was trying to accomplish with the video is to convey the story of how toxic relationships can break you but with healing, looking back on them can be seen as a victory. 

What inspires you to create music? What motivates you to keep going?

Music has always been an outlet for me- it’s engrained in who I am as a person. My experiences and my love for storytelling inspire me to create music. I have an amazing support system that continually encourage me and motivate me to keep making music. This definitely isn’t the last you’ll hear of me. 

If you could collaborate with anyone – dead or alive, famous or unknown – who would it be and why?

I would collaborate with Ed Sheeran. He’s been my biggest musical influence and I have such a respect for his lyricism and talent. 

What was the last song you listened to? Favorite all-time bands/artists?

The last song I listened to was when the party’s over by Billie Eilish. She’s my guilty pleasure artist.  Favorite all-time artists are probably Ed Sheeran and Taylor Swift. 

Where is the best place to find you and stay connected?

I’m most active on Instagram but you can follow me on X, YouTube, Twitch, TikTok, and Facebook. 

I appreciate Your time. Want to say or plug any other projects before we part ways?

Along with making music, I love playing videogames. You can follow me on Twitch to interact with me in my chat while I play. Also I have more projects in the works so keep an eye out.