Starting My Recording Career at 41: Why It’s Never Too Late
Fearless Singer Mel Lathouras at Jeff Lovejoy’s Studio
Two weeks ago, I did something that felt both monumental and simple: I went back into the studio to finish two original tracks—“EGO” and “LOMO” (Love of Missing Out).
These songs had been sitting with producer Jeff Lovejoy for two years, living rent-free on his hard drive—not because they weren’t ready, but because I felt I wasn’t.
You see, even as a full-time musician, coach, and “Fearless Singer,” fear can still creep in.
It’s the fear of the “cringe,” the fear of judgement (both internal and external), and the fear that the dreams we hold so close might not turn out the way we imagine. And there’s also the fear of releasing something to the sound of crickets.
And for two years, I let that fear—and a money block—keep me from finishing what I started.
But something shifted—thanks to a lot of inner work, which I’ll get to.
A Heartfelt Commitment
I booked the session just days before my beautiful Grandma Mavis passed.
Despite learning what true heartbreak feels like from losing a soul mate, I went through with my commitment.
Losing her reminded me of something cliché but absolutely profound: life is too precious to put off what truly matters.
Grandma Mave believed in me. Before she passed, she woke up, saw me, and said, “My darling Lissy with a beautiful voice, she’s just beautiful,” and then she squeezed my hand.
She was a big believer in going for your dreams and finishing what you start—if it makes your heart sing.
So I showed up for her, for myself, and for these songs that represent a part of my voice and story.
And now, I’m thrilled to share that these quirky rock songs will be released by the end of March, with a special singles launch to celebrate this long-overdue milestone.
Breaking Through the Blocks
Getting back into the studio wasn’t easy. I had to face the reasons I’d been avoiding it, and one of the biggest blocks surprised me: money.
For two years, I told myself I couldn’t afford to finish these songs. Yet when I looked deeper, I realised I had the money— I was choosing to spend it on courses, tools, and other things that made me feel productive.
Recording felt indulgent as if I wasn’t “worthy” of investing in my own creativity.
Through EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) tapping, I uncovered and released these beliefs. Tapping helped me realise that my creativity isn’t a luxury—it’s a priority. Investing in these songs wasn’t about indulgence; it was about honouring my voice and my work.
I also leaned into Internal Family Systems (IFS), which allowed me to identify and work with the different “parts” of myself—the perfectionist who was scared of not getting it right and the self-doubter who whispered, “Who do you think you are?”
By acknowledging these parts with compassion, I created space for the brave, creative part of me to step forward.
These tools didn’t just help me get back into the studio—they reminded me that fear, money blocks, and doubt aren’t roadblocks. They’re signals, opportunities to learn and grow.
Growth is one of my newly found values, which I will share more on.
It’s Never Too Late
I’m starting my recording career at 41. Let me say that again: 41. And honestly, it wouldn’t matter if I were 71, 81, or beyond.
For years, I told myself, “Next year.” But I’ve learnt that readiness doesn’t magically appear. It’s something you create by taking action, one step at a time.
Fear will always be there, but it doesn’t have to be the thing that stops you. Actually, fear can be a sign that you’re on the right track.
This moment reminded me of why I created Fearless Singer in the first place. The mantra isn’t just for my clients—it’s for me, too.
It’s about redefining fear as an emotion that empowers rather than cripples us. It’s about leaning into the scary stuff because that’s where the magic happens.
Lessons From the Studio
Here’s what this experience taught me:
Start Small. You don’t have to finish an entire album or create a masterpiece overnight. Just book the session, write the verse, or hum the melody into your phone.
Get Support. Whether it’s a coach, a friend, or a community, having people who believe in you can make all the difference. (Ask me about our Fearless Singer Membership or Mentorship!)
Do the Inner Work. Tools like EFT, IFS, and self-reflection can help you uncover and shift the beliefs holding you back.
Reframe Money Blocks. Your creativity is not indulgent—it’s essential. Choosing to invest in your dreams is an act of self-love and purpose.
Stop Waiting for “Next Year.” There’s no perfect time. If it matters to you, find a way to start now. Tomorrow is only a possibility—we only have now.
Finding My Voice Again These two tracks represent more than just music. They’re a testament to showing up, even when it’s hard.
They’re a reminder that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams, and it’s never too late to rewrite your story.
If you’re reading this and you’ve been putting off your creative dreams—whether it’s recording a song, writing a book, or picking up a paintbrush—I want to tell you: it’s not too late. Start messy. Start scared. Start imperfect. Just start.
And if you’re ready to reconnect with your voice and your dreams, keep an eye out for my upcoming 8-week course, Vocal Love Club.
It’s designed to help you fall in love with your voice again, dream bigger than ever, and take those first powerful steps forward. Coming soon!
I actually have a video recording of my Grandma saying: “Everyone has a dream. And it’s up to you to follow that dream. And nothing is impossible.” You can watch it here…
Anyway, my darling Grandma Mave, that’s exactly what I intend to do.
Here’s to finding your voice, no matter when you start.
Lots of Love,
