Artist Advent Day 8: MACY
Written by: Keyali Mikaela
Welcome to Day 8 of Next Wave's Artist Advent Calendar, where we shine a spotlight on the dynamic and multi talented artist, MACY. A seasoned performer with a passion for music and drama since a young age, MACY has carved her path in the industry, drawing inspiration from a diverse range of influences, including Jessie J, Beyond, Kylie, and Dua Lipa.
In this exclusive interview, MACY opens up about the challenges of breaking into the music industry, emphasizing the financial aspect and the unique hurdles posed by her chosen music genre in Wales. Undeterred, MACY navigates the industry landscape with the support of organizations like Horizons, Launchpad, Youth Music, and Help Musicians, demonstrating resilience and dedication to her craft.
Join us in celebrating Day 8 of Next Wave's Artist Advent Calendar as we dive into the vibrant world of MACY.
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Next Wave: What inspired you to pursue music?
I have always had a passion for music and drama from an early age. I never really seen myself doing anything else really.
Next Wave: Who are your musical influences or role models?
My early influences were Jessie J, Beyond and then artists like Kylie, Dua Lipa.
Next Wave: What's the most challenging aspect of breaking into the music industry?
The most challenging parts are getting enough money back in to allow me to create more music. I have had a lot of support from Horizons, Launchpad, Youth Music and Help Musicians over the last couple of years, which has really helped. My other obstacle is my music genre, as Wales has a large Indie fan base but I am hoping to be part of the change
Next Wave: How do you go about promoting your music and building your fanbase?
For releases I do hire a PR company to help. I also do a lot of social media posts myself and often hold my Planet Pop gigs, which helps other Pop artists as well as myself.
Next Wave: How has technology and the internet impacted your music career?
I have grown up with the internet, so I didn't really know what it was like before. I know it was a lot harder to share your music before the internet though, so I am really blessed.
Next Wave: Do you have any advice for other up-and-coming musicians trying to make it in the industry?
I think follow your heart, your passion. You have to weigh up what you put into releasing music and balance it out with live gigs. Performing live is my real passion and I hope to do more of this now I have a brand new setlist from my new EP and releases this year
Next Wave: What are your long-term goals and aspirations?
Just keep on doing what I am doing. I think I will always work in the creative industry in some form or another, whether that’s writing or performing.
Next Wave: Can you share a memorable moment from your musical journey so far?
I have few really good moments. I performed at the Principality Stadium in front of 50,000 people this year, Performed at the BAFTA Cymru Awards and had my first BBC RADIO 1 Plays. I have also had 10 singles go onto the Welsh A list on BBC RADIO WALES, which I am so proud about
Next Wave: Can you share a little about your creative process and how you come up with new ideas for songs?
I make a lot of voice notes. I also call on experiences and also when you are in a room with other creative people, writing songs, the magic just happens most of the time
Next Wave: What song, ep or album of yours would you recommend to someone who is listening to your music for the first time?
I think my new EP, Third Person, would be a great starting point, as I think I have definitely matured as an artist since 3 years ago.