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"True love is speechless": Caitlin Piper on Her Soulful New Single and the Stories Behind It

A conversation with New Hampshire singer-songwriter about her new single "Speechless".

By Eugenia RoditisMusicngear Editor

Singer-songwriter Caitlin Piper is one of those artists whose music feels instantly familiar, not because it's predictable, but because it's real. Based in coastal New Hampshire, Caitlin has gained recognition for her soulful, groove-driven songs and for transforming ordinary moments into lyrical storytelling.

Her new single, Speechless, explores the kind of love that doesn't rely on words; a reflection on connection, presence, and the ways we express what matters most without saying a thing.

We caught up with Caitlin to talk about the making of Speechless, the value of collaboration, the challenges she has faced as an artist, aspiring collaborations, future plans, and more.

Eugenia Roditis, Musicngear: Hi Caitlin, welcome to Musicngear! Your new single "Speechless" has such a warm and soulful vibe. What instruments or gear were essential in bringing this sound to life in the studio?

Thank you! Honestly, I didn’t start with a clear vision for the arrangement—just me, my voice, and an acoustic guitar. From there, I reached out to some friends, and the song really began to take shape.

Bill Durling added keys, which gave it this subtle, slightly haunting tone that I loved. Then Guy Capecelatro III came in with a gorgeous electric guitar part, and suddenly the track felt alive in a whole new way. Joe Harding laid down the bass, and for drums, Tony Interlande recorded on a kit once used by the legendary John “JR” Robinson, the same drummer who’s played for Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, Quincy Jones, and beyond.

Having that history in the mix added something really unique. I also built out several layers of backing vocals and harmonies myself, which gave the song more color and depth. Finally, Tony handled the mixing, and we worked closely together to make sure every voice and instrument had its own space.

The result is something that feels textured, intimate, and a little unexpected—exactly where I wanted Speechless to land.

Musicngear: In the lyrics, you describe love as “laughter, admiration…glances, several chances” before concluding that “true love is speechless”. What inspired you to explore love in this way, and how personal is this song to you?

I started thinking about how, in many relationships, there always seems to be one person who’s more of a talker—someone who craves verbal input—and the other who communicates more through actions, often reserved or “speechless.” I’ve always been a words-based person. I love languages, and what people actually say sticks with me.

While I was learning a different song, I noticed how its lyrics emphasized the importance of words, and it made me realize: I’m that person who really needs to hear the words. That reflection sparked the idea: What does it feel like to be on the other end of the relationship?

That’s what inspired Speechless: the recognition that actions can speak just as powerfully as words, and that love can live in the spaces between them—or even without them.

Musicngear: Every artist faces obstacles along the way. What have been some of the biggest challenges you’ve had to overcome in your music journey, and what advice would you give to artists navigating similar struggles?

I feel grateful to have the opportunity to do anything with music. It’s my passion and outlet. My obstacle at this point is being concerned that the moment will resolve. I stopped playing music all together for several years, and it feels amazing to be back. I don’t want to lose this.

I work hard to maintain a positive attitude and to have patience with myself. My advice to anyone would be don’t sweat the small stuff. Work with other people who lift you up and leave you feeling energized. Use your time wisely. Find joy in the process.

My hope is that listeners connect with the message—that love can live in the spaces between words

Musicngear: What are your goals for this release? Are you focused more on streaming numbers, booking live shows, media coverage, or something else, and how do you go about working toward those goals?

“Speechless” is the first song I’ve released that was professionally mixed, so I’m excited to do as much as I can with it. Last week, it debuted on Boston’s BumbleBee Radio—a really special moment for me.

I wrote the song back in January and started performing it live in February, sometimes solo, sometimes with my band, and more recently as a duo. To be honest, I didn’t expect this track to stand out on the album. I don’t usually write love songs, and at first it felt a little cheesy to me. But when we added the electric guitar part, the whole song opened up, and it’s since become one of my favorites.

My hope is that listeners connect with the message—that love can live in the spaces between words.

Musicngear: If you could collaborate with any artist, who would be at the top of your list? And are there any venues or festivals you dream of playing someday?

I’m all about gorgeous venues with New England character. I want to perform at Vinegar Hill in Arundel, Maine, because it is a beautiful space. I would also like to take the stage at the Music Hall Lounge, The Music Hall and Jimmy’s as a headlining artist. I would like to perform at the Portsmouth Arts Festival in Prescott Park. I would like to continue to perform at The Press Room. All of these locations are in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. I love Portsmouth. It feels like my own little Lifetime movie set, and I am so proud to be a small part of its incredible music scene.

A good friend told me to dream bigger recently, but I am truly happy with where I am at; unless I had the opportunity to perform in Europe, I would definitely go for that. 

As far as collaboration, I am so fortunate to have collaborated with many local talented musicians that have shared endless amounts of valuable knowledge. Dream collaborations would be with Lake Street Dive, Couch, Rachael & Vilray, and Natalie Merchant. Natalie Merchant and the 10,000 Maniacs are from my hometown, and my parents used to go see them perform in small venues when they started dating. They were a major influence growing up, and it would be a full circle moment. I realize they are both their own entities now, so two different collaborations would need to occur for this to happen!

Musicngear: What’s the most unexpected or unusual source of inspiration you’ve ever turned into a song idea?

Two years ago, I went to the Boston Aquarium and ended up writing an entire Saint Patrick’s Day song inspired by the visit. The song is called Some Dreams and is told from the perspective of a sea lion and explores the idea that sometimes it’s better not to accomplish all your dreams, so you still have something left to reach for.

By the time I left the aquarium, the whole song was finished in my head. I also wrote a love song about W.B. Mason (yes, the office supply celebrity).

Musicngear: If you could write a duet with a fictional character (from books, movies, or games), who would it be and what would the song be about?

I would write a power anthem with Olivia Benson from Law and Order SVU about work/family balance and the ability to do it all while following your dreams.

Musicngear: From solo performances to full band shows, you’ve explored both sides of the stage. What does each experience bring to your music?

Each experience teaches me something new. Playing solo for long periods of time is starting to feel a little lonely, so I am shifting out of solo three-hour shows and hoping to continue more with working as a duo or ideally with a full band.

Time is valuable, and I get the most fulfillment and energy from collaborating with others.

Musicngear: Beyond "Speechless",  what can fans look forward to next?

I have new music lined up for release later this year and into next, with a full album planned by the end of 2026. The songs lean into a soulful sound with hints of jazz, with a variety of storytelling and themes along the way.

I’m really excited to share this next chapter of music with listeners.

Connect with Caitlin Piper
Facebook / Instagram / YouTube / Spotify / Website

About Eugenia Roditis

Eugenia's passion for music was ignited from an early age as she grew up in a family of musicians. She loves attending concerts and festivals, while constantly seeking fresh and exciting new artists across diverse genres. Eugenia joined the MusicnGear team in 2012.

Contact Eugenia Roditis at eugenia.roditis@kinkl.com

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