Photo Credit: Chris David
Rising singer, rapper, songwriter and producer Malachiii opens his heart with the release of “Love Me,” his debut single with Motown Records. On the track, the 25-year-old Southern California artist asks the burning questions that arise when you’re coming of age and falling in love: “Will you be there when it rains, when it snows? / Will you be there when I’m out of control?”.
The first verse subtly draws listeners inward with lo-fi trap vibes and Malachiii’s softly delivered bars, building momentum before his voice starts to soar. The chorus gets vulnerable as he declares that he doesn’t want a partner’s adoration just to feed his ego—he needs love and support to ease his mind.
Tell us about the genesis of your project. How did you get to where you are now?
I’ve been making music since I was about 14 years old and have been a performer almost all of my life. It’s been quite the journey from dance to acting to music, but I’ve been building my artistry and vision for a while now and I’m finally getting to share my music with the world in a big way. Through honing my craft, I got to collaborate and work with a lot of awesome people as an artist, songwriter and producer. That has led me to where I am now. Doing all of this has allowed me to develop the sound that I’m just beginning to introduce to the world.
What does music and being an artist mean to you?
It means everything. Creating Is my biggest passion and sharing my art and having a lasting impact on art culture and the world is my ultimate goal. The power that music has to heal the world is a special thing and I’m so grateful to have the opportunity to do that with my music.
What are some sources of inspiration for your lyrics and storytelling?
My music most often reflects my own personal experiences in life and the things that I observe and feel strongly about. I’d say life, my imagination and my spirit are my main sources of inspiration.
Who is an artist that you look up to more than others today?
Kanye West and Pharrell for their overall impact and transcendence as artists. They have inspired generations of artists and visionaries and have never been afraid to be different. That is the impact I aspire to have on the world as an artist and human being.
What was the record or artist that changed your life?
I think it would have to be Michael Jackson. He set the bar so high. He is the best performer of all time and set a standard of greatness and dedication to the craft. He was one of my first big inspirations.
Tell us about your latest release and how it came about?
“Love Me” is my latest release and it’s a song inspired by love and the need to have someone by your side through all of the ups and downs, someone who will be true to you no matter what. I worked on it with Brian “Deep” Watters and Joey Lopez. We built the track together and I wrote the song to it and it became something special.
You seem to be fusing several musical genres. What inspires your sound?
I’m inspired by all music. I was exposed to a lot of different genres of music early in my life and so I’m really inspired by it all. I think my music is a combination of everything I’m inspired by, making it genre-bending or genre-less. My music is definitely unpredictable and I like that. I think music should be like a good movie or a rollercoaster ride, something that takes you on a journey.
What are some things you do to deal with anxiety and creative blocks?
Doing some fun activity that brings you joy is always good. I love video games and playing basketball but often it’s about putting yourself in a peaceful space (whatever that is for you). Creativity can’t be forced, it’s a natural flow, so sometimes you just have to take a deep breath and let it come to you and come through you.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
On world tours, a few albums in, in front of thousands in stadiums and arenas bringing the audience into a new immersive world that I’ve created—creating unforgettable experiences for people all over the globe.
Your style is very original and elaborate. How do you take care of your aesthetics?
I like style and love finding new vibes to put together. I love vibrant colors and unique design and cuts. Style is another form of expression for me. I’ve always had curly hair so this is the vibe I have landed on lol. Other than that, i’ve just been trying to stay hydrated, eat healthy and wash my face (been using That Human Race Skincare lately) lol.
What was the most daunting moment in your career so far?
Nothing too daunting so far. Honestly, everything has been a dream lately and I intend to keep it that way. There’s always bumps in the road but we don’t dwell. We just keep winning!
What is the best advice you’ve ever gotten?
Stay Present.
Where do you think the next game changer will be in the music industry and entertainment scene?
Not sure exactly where but definitely on planet earth and I plan on being that game changer!
