Emerging London singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Mali Mae is entering a new chapter of her musical journey, bringing together years of classical training with a deeply personal approach to alternative pop. A graduate of the Royal Northern College of Music, her career has already encompassed studio recordings, live performances and an appearance at the National Television Awards, but her latest material reveals an increasingly vulnerable side to her artistry.
Her new single ‘Making Me Cry’ confronts the emotional pressure of wanting to make your family proud while privately fearing that you will never be enough. Combining acoustic and electric guitars, piano and expressive vocals, the track gradually builds in intensity, reflecting the accumulation of anxiety, guilt and self-doubt at the heart of its lyrics.
So with the new single out now, we sat down with her to find out more about her origins and what has been inspiring her most over the years.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
The Violin. Everytime I heard it, it would make me emotional and I think that was when I fell in love with music.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
I was into everything but it was mainly your classic girly pop or rap.
What was the first album you remember owning?
Good Kid By Kendrick Lamar was probably one of the first albums I actually bought myself.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
Currently it’s Reckless and arranged by Ethan French.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
I always start with picking up an instrument and just playing, seeing what makes me feel something.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
I’m listening to a big mix of things at the moment but I’m listening to a lot of Sasha Keable, Florence Road and old school Rihanna.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
I would love to open for Sombr (go big or go home am I right?)
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
Having people enjoy your music. Isn’t that the whole point?
And what is the most frustrating part?
Having to play the social media game as well.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
Don’t try and make music like your favourite artists. You’ll be influenced naturally but trying to be like someone else won’t work.
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Mali Mae's new single 'Making Me Cry' is out now. Check it out in the player below.