Nothing But Heart: A Speaker Session With Singer/Songwriter Julia Michaels

BMI Speaker Sessions began three years ago as in-person conversations with our songwriters, producers, artists and industry in our LA office. These sessions provided insights into the working of artistry and industry. Today, like with so many initiatives amidst an unprecedented time of remote work and social distancing, we are taking Speaker Sessions to a virtual platform. This is our inaugural Zoom edition of BMI’s Speaker Sessions with the incomparable songwriter and artist, Julia Michaels and BMI’s Executive Director, Jessa Gelt. As longtime friends and colleagues, Jessa and Julia sat together for an in-depth conversation touching on aspects of creativity, vulnerability and how Julia strives to balance both her public and private persona as an artist with the comforts she finds on the road and at home. Julia has found balance.

With lyrics that resonate passion, honesty and inspiration, Julia is an influential voice for today’s generation and culture. At 26, Julia has graced the list of Billboard’s Hot 100 24 times, received 12 BMI Awards, five BMI Million-Air Awards (signifying radio performances of a million or more plays) and earned two GRAMMY nominations for Song of the Year and Best New Artist. She has written hits for artists including Selena Gomez, Justin Bieber, Ed Sheeran, Shawn Mendes, Demi Lovato, Fifth Harmony, Keith Urban, Janelle Monáe and P!nk, just to name a few. Julia is also a successful artist who has toured the world opening for Maroon five and Niall Horan, as well as headlining her own solo tours. Her hit single, “Issues”, changed the trajectory of a career that that took her from being a songwriter behind the scenes to debuting as Julia Michaels, the artist. With candor, honesty and reflection, Jessa and Julia invite you to enjoy a most engaging, illuminating and special Speaker Session.