Fresh off her collaboration with Tyler, The Creator on “Don’t You Worry Baby,” Madison McFerrin is riding a wave of career-defining moments. The track helped propel his latest album to a No. 59 debut on the Billboard Hot 100—her first-ever chart appearance. Earlier this year, she wowed audiences with a soulful performance on NPR’s Tiny Desk, part of the rollout for her new album, Scorpio, released June 24.

On Wednesday, August 13, McFerrin brings her signature mix of vulnerability and groove to Milwaukee’s Summer of Soul, headlining after hometown favorite Grace Weber. In our interview, she opens up about the whirlwind of her breakout year, the car accident that nearly ended her career, and the deep family roots that continue to inspire her sound. She also shares why her songwriting process is an immersive, soul-searching journey—one that turns personal truths into music that resonates far beyond the surface.