If you’re searching for an empowering artist with soul, then look no further than Malynda Hale.
Using music as a platform for change, Malynda is no stranger to shedding light on numerous important issues including female empowerment, the Black Lives Matter movement, social justice and more through her songs.
Malynda’s latest single ‘Something Worth Fighting For’ is an inspiring anthem which many people will resonate with. It also forms part of the songstress’ new EP The One, which was released today. When she’s not voicing her opinions through her music, you will find Malynda hosting the femme-empowerment ‘Boss Please’ podcast.
We recently had the chance to speak to Malynda about everything from her music to touring, podcasts to beauty. Check it out below.
Hi Malynda, welcome to CelebMix. First off, congratulations on the release of your new single ‘Something Worth Fighting For’ – we love it, it’s such an anthem! What has the reaction to it been like so far?
Thank you so much! The reaction so far has been great! I love that you called it an anthem because that’s exactly how I wanted people to feel! I really wanted it to be that get-up-in-the-morning-and-feel-inspired type of song!
The track is an anthem for female empowerment and the Black Lives Matter Movement. Was there a particular event which inspired this song?
There were so many events that inspired this song! Just reading the news today, and seeing how many people are standing up for what they believe in and fighting for things that matter, that’s what made this song really easy to write. It was needed. We are all fighting for something.
What was the creative process like? How long did it take for the song to come together?
I started writing SWFF a year ago and I didn’t feel inspired to finish it. But when I started co-writing songs with my musical director David Brunelle I thought, “You know, I bet Dave could come up with some cool chords for this song.” So I spent a little time writing more of the melody and lyrics, and then I sent it to Dave and he came up with the music for it. Then I brought in my friend Anna Harrington, who also did backgrounds and vocal producing on the song, to help finish some other lyric ideas and it all just came together. I’m really happy with how it all came out.
What’s your favorite lyric from the song?
“The best things in your life are sometimes wrapped in a surprise.” I love that lyric so much, and it wouldn’t be in the song if it weren’t for my friend Anna. I love the simplicity in it because we often don’t realize what the best things in our lives are. I love the imagery of that realization being wrapped like a little gift.
‘Something Worth Fighting For’ forms part of your EP, The One, which dropped today. What can our readers expect from your EP?
This EP is so special to me. It’s the most vulnerable and open I’ve been in my writing and I think I’ve reached a place in my artistry where I’m really comfortable. I struggled for a while trying to figure out my sound and what type of artist I wanted to be. This EP shows that growth and settles me into the Pop/Soul Singer-Songwriter genre.
We’re particularly fond of ‘We Run’ and ‘The One’. Do you have a favorite track from the EP?
Thank you so much! It’s so hard to pick a favorite. They all hold special meaning to me for different reasons. But If I had to pick ONE it would be, “The One”. I just love the vibe. It puts a smile on my face every time I hear it. I remember how that song came to be and how excited I was when it was done.
What do you hope that people will take away from your music?
Honesty, I really want people to feel connected to me and my heart after listening to this. I think each song gives you a glimpse into who I am as a person, how I feel about certain aspects of life and what I stand for.
How important is it for you to use your platform to shed light on some of the world’s most important issues?
I think it’s incredibly important. I feel like our job as singer-songwriters is to tell stories and to use our voices through a medium that everyone can relate to: music. Music is something that everyone can relate to and if you can use your voice to spread a message of love and positivity then do it.
You are obviously inspired by a number of important movements, but which artists inspire you musically?
There are quite a few artists I’m drawn to for different reasons. But anyone who knows me knows that my main musical influence is Gavin DeGraw. I’ve always loved who he is as an artist. I connect deeply to his songwriting, his musicianship and the relationship he has with his fans. He’s made a huge impact on who I am as an artist.
You’ll be heading out on tour this summer. What do you enjoy the most about performing?
I can’t really say that there’s just one thing I love the most about performing. I love being a storyteller. I love sharing my heart through song and being able to touch people in that way. I love giving people a glimpse into my life through my music. It’s really powerful how music allows you to connect with someone you’ve shared an experience with but that you’ve never met. I feel privileged that this is my reality.
You began singing at just five years old, so music is evidently in your blood. Did you ever aspire to have a career in another field?
I wanted to be a pediatrician for about five minutes! Other than that, I’ve ALWAYS wanted to be in music, ever since I heard Whitney Houston sing the national anthem when I was 5 years old (it changed my life!). Music was always my chosen path.
Outside of music, you also host the ‘Boss, Please’ podcast. Can you tell us a little about it?
Yes! ‘Boss, Please’ is a podcast for female bosses. It’s all about female empowerment and deep conversations. There are three hosts, myself included, and we have weekly guests who talk about how they are bosses in their chosen career fields. It amazes me every week the incredible women we get to interview! It’s been such a blast recording that podcast as well. We are currently on season two and new episodes come out every Wednesday.
You’re also the face of Valana Minerals which are cruelty free and suited for women of color, which is amazing. How did you first get involved with the brand?
A few years back I remember wanting to fully transition my skin care and makeup regimens to being completely vegan, but it was always hard to find brands that were flattering for dark skin. So one day I googled “vegan makeup for dark skin” and Valana Minerals was the first brand to pop up. I browsed their website, ordered a sample pack, tried the product and then fell in love. My husband (who’s involved in my career management) sent them an email about how much I loved the product and if they would be interested in partnering! Next thing I know I’m the face of their company. I can’t brag about their makeup enough. If you want to try it please go to www.valanaminerals.com and use the discount code MHOnline to get 10% off. You won’t be disappointed.
What do you have in store for the rest of 2018?
I’ll be touring for most of it and then honestly, I’m ready to get back into the studio again! I also want to dive back into some acting projects because I hit pause on that part of my life while I was working on the record. This year has a lot in store and I’m going to enjoy it one day at a time.
Thank you to Malynda Hale for her time. Keep up to date with her on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.
The One is available now.