

9/25/26
Merete Mongstad's "Pull Yourself Together" is about living with an invisible illness, the shame of not functioning as expected, and hiding it. Inspired by the laid-back, melodic R&B of Celeste's "Lately," she wrote, produced, played, sang, mixed and mastered the track herself, and hopes listeners feel recognized and understood.
What is this song about, and what moment or feeling started it?
I wanted to write a deeply personal song about living with an invisible illness, the shame of not functioning the way you're "supposed" to, and the constant effort of trying to hide it from the outside world.”
What sound were you chasing on this track, and who were your references?
For the production for the song, I was inspired by Celeste’s song Lately, with its laidback, melodic R&B’ish vibe.
What was the hardest part of recording or producing this song, and what did you change because of it?
I didn't change my ideas, but it was the first song I've written, produced, programmed drums, played all the instruments (except playing one of the stringvoices), sang, mixed and mastered myself.
Is there a lyric, sound, or moment in the track listeners should listen for, and why does it matter to you?
The beginning, it captures the feeling: "I'm walking slowly, the sky is weighing me down" and the lyrics: "Cause I'm walking slower than the rest of the world" gives a real image of what it feels like to be really exhausted.
What do you want someone to feel after hearing this song, and what is next for you after this release?
I want them to recognize the feeling, and felt understood and connected.
What is the biggest struggle you face when making music?
My migraine that sometimes makes me sensitive to some brighter frequencies, can be difficult in mastering, and sometimes I have to stop making music for a period of time.
What is the biggest misconception people have about making music and the music business?
That some label will discover you, sign you, do all the work, pay all the expenses- and then you get famous and rich. Instead, I see music as a big community with lots of room for everyone, and there is so much knowledge that has to be learned to be able to make a living of your music. It is hard work.
What is your absolute best trick to break writer's block or get yourself out of a creative rut?
I use to read through the thousands of sentences I have written in my notes on my phone, or listen to the sketches I have recorded over the years. I like to collect old snippets and try to make something new out of it.
What is your best advice or thoughts on promoting and marketing your music independently?
Follow your joy, trust your instincts- and try to be realistic. Have a good community and a good coach. Learn how
to do the admin part and marketing, or get help from someone who likes it. Most important: learn how to use SoMe algorithms, and don´t get obsessed with the numbers, and try to have fun while doing it.
If a new listener hears this song first, what should they listen to next from you, and why?
Is it me- an intimate personal song about what you are missing out on, not listening in romantic relationships, because, you are too focused on the idea of a perfect relationship. And the song is also about the feeling of being in love with someone, who is in love with an idea, rather than loving you for who you really are.
That's all for this week's feature! New Music from the Mixing Desk is published every Wednesday. — nico
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