After being introduced to the music world at the tender age of 4, indie-rock chick Ingrid Michaelson is making a name for herself on her own terms. With her own record label, Cabin 24 Records, and her songs gaining acclaim from Grey’s Anatomy and Old Navy sweater-themed commercials, the New Yorker will bring her melodic beats and famous tunes to The Pageant on July 2.

How do you feel about opening for Dave Matthews Band this summer?
I’m very excited … I don’t really know what it’s going to be like to perform [for] that many people.

How does it feel to be considered among the ranks of some of the female indie greats, like Rachael Yamagata and Regina Spektor?
I love those artists . To be named with them is cool and flattering . I’m excited about what’s happening, but trying to be realistic and not get my hopes up.

What was your inspiration for “The Way I Am”?
I was feeling kind of melancholy . [It was a] call out for someone who will love me for all my flaws. I just sort of put it all into words, [and] it came out kind of happy. It’s really ironic, because now it’s, like, a wedding song, and it came from a really kind of dark corner of my brain.

How has television exposure of your songs affected your career?
It’s the reason I’m talking to you . It’s made my career what it is. I’ve managed to go past the major label route . Lots of people saw [my songs and] connected with them . Now I’m kind of catching up and doing the normal stuff like touring, recording . etcetera.

Who is cooler: Conan O’Brien or Regis Philbin?
I didn’t meet Regis; Doogie Howser [Neil Patrick Harris] was the host that day. I mean, I love Doogie and everything, but Conan is my favorite . Jay Leno, though, was the sweetest man ever . He came into our dressing room and talked to us for a little bit.

What can people who aren’t aware of your music expect from your shows?
I like to have an interactive thing with the audience. I like to talk to them and include them, make them laugh . not just have them watch me sitting there singing.