Megan Mortensen (stage name Valeree) is an unsigned artist from Pittsburgh, with influences including Otis Redding, Etta James, and contemporary soul artists such as Amy Winehouse and H.E.R.

After struggling with substance abuse as a teenager, Valeree turned to song-writing as a form of therapy and catharsis. Her latest release ‘Dive’ has an arrangement flecked with old soul and country, driven by a contemporary singer-songwriter/pop melody.

The song is a passionate plea for a lover to maintain faith and trust in their relationship. ‘Don’t tell me why we won’t work out,’ she sings. Her voice, at times breezy at others aching, ripples in tandem with the arrangement.

(Image copyright: Valeree)