New York-based alt-pop artist Maxx Nies continues her rise with the release of her deeply personal new single ‘Give Me A Reason’, a track that further cements her reputation for emotionally honest, introspective songwriting. At just 25, Nies has built a compelling artistic identity rooted in vulnerability and resilience, using music as both a creative outlet and a means of processing life’s most complex experiences.
Drawing inspiration from the confessional storytelling of Taylor Swift and the hazy emotional textures of Mazzy Star, ‘Give Me A Reason’ blends fragile intimacy with atmospheric, experimental alt-pop production. Written in a burst of raw emotion, the track captures a pivotal moment of reflection in Maxx’s life, resulting in a song that feels both unfiltered and deeply immersive.
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?
It was definitely the guitar.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
I think i was a big pop girly but I’d say especially growing up i listen to Tylor Swift more than anyone sometimes more than my own mother.
What was the first album you remember owning?
I'm pretty sure when I was in preschool my mom bought me Gwen Stefani's album “Love. Angel. Music. Baby” because i was obsessed with the song “Hollerback Girl”.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
So many!!!! The first one that comes to mind is Figures by Jessie Reyes. I really feel that song in my soul and I also really enjoy singing it.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
Honestly, not really. I like to let things happen and flow the way they’re meant to. When I try to control everything, it stops flowing, and I get too in my head and overly judgmental about what I’m doing. I find that the best ideas and moments come when I just let go and trust the process.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
I’d say I’ve probably been one of Taylor Swift’s biggest fans since her very first album — it came out just days after I turned six. Over the years, my taste in music has broadened a lot, but some of my all-time favorites besides her are Eminem, Lana Del Rey, Mazzy Star, and Mac Miller. I could go on forever, but I’ll leave it at that!
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
Taylor Swift. Period. No doubt.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
So much! But I’d say the most rewarding part of being a musician is connecting with people through my music. When someone hears a song I wrote and it resonates with their own experiences, or makes them feel seen or understood, that’s an incredible feeling. Being able to turn my emotions, struggles, and stories into something that can reach and impact other people is what makes it all worth it.
And what is the most frustrating part?
The most frustrating part is probably the industry itself and how unfair it can be. Music is such a personal and vulnerable thing, but the industry, algorithms, and even public reception can feel completely out of your control, and it’s easy to start comparing yourself to others. You put so much into something, and sometimes it doesn’t reach the people you hoped it would, or it’s interpreted differently than you intended. That’s tough, but it also teaches patience and resilience as an artist.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
Be authentic. My producer, Justin, really opened my eyes to what authenticity in music and as an artist truly means — in a way I had never thought of before. Since that day, I think about it every single day in everything I do with my art and creativity.
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Maxx Nies' new single 'Give Me A Reason' is out now. Check it out in the player below.