In this interview spotlight, I chat with Morgan Mallory about the newest single, challenges, technology and more.
Full Q&A along with links and music below.
Where are you from and what style of music do you create? (In your own words, not necessarily in marketing terms or by popular genre classifications.)
I was born and raised in Portland Oregon, but now I live in North Hollywood, California. The music I create could perhaps be called Indie Soul Pop. It’s a little eclectic, where one song might be a laid back r&b groove, and the next is a high energy banger. I love heavy funk rhythm sections and soaring melodies. Every instrument needs to have a hook built in.
What led you down this path of music and what motivates you to keep going?
My mom has been a music teacher/performer her whole life, and my dad is a gifted natural musician. I guess I was always built for it, and I just had to grab the wheel and steer. At this point, I’ve built my life around performing, writing, and recording, so to do anything else would feel very alien.
How is this new release different than previous ones? Were you trying to accomplish anything specific?
This new batch of songs gave me the opportunity to take my time and really carve out a universe for myself. My first record, Manifesto, was almost too easy to make. They were some of the first songs I ever wrote, and I had the same musicians play on all the songs. For this new EP, I’ve invited a ton of my musician friends to play on it, and took my time crafting specific vibes for a larger vision.
Name one or two challenges you face as an indie musician in this oversaturated, digital music age? How has technology helped you (since we know it does help)?
For one, there’s so much noise out there. Everyone can record at home, and a hit song can be a girl in a room with a single microphone. Second, there doesn’t seem to be any particular direction that popular songs follow. However, I do see that as a positive, as it allows artists more freedom to be eclectic and exist on multiple playlists. Playlists! They’re the new radio stations! I encourage everyone reading this to add my songs to your playlists!! That’s the only way we can get discovered and make money from streaming.
What was the last song you listened to?
Kimbra – Black Sky (reimagined). Kimbra is just the best. If you’ve heard her, you know. I feel personally attacked that she hasn’t gotten bigger, she’s just SO good and unique.
Which do you prefer? Vinyl? CDs? MP3s?
CDs are basically drink coasters now. Thanks, Apple, for killing them *eye roll*. Vinyl sounds great, but only if the songs have been mastered for vinyl. Also, they don’t travel well. I suppose the MP3 reigns supreme. They’re easy to share, upload, and still sound good.
How about this one…. Do you prefer Spotify? Apple Music? Bandcamp? Or something else? Why?
Bandcamp is great because people can pay what they want – I’ve had a fan pay $20 for one song – but it doesn’t spread you around the world as well. Any streaming platform like Spotify/Apple Music cuts down on profits BUT they help new fans reach you that wouldn’t have been able to find you.
Where is the best place to connect with you online and discover more music?
My Instagram (@morgan.mallory.music) goes straight to my thumbs, so that’s a great way to connect with me, and it’s where I post ANYTHING new. All my songs are on Spotify/Apple Music/Google Play/Pandora/etc, so just play through everything I’ve got and add your favorites to your playlists!
Do you have any upcoming shows? If so, when and where?
I play all the time around LA, and will be posting all performances/special shows on my Bandsintown calendar. Jan 24 is the release date for my first new song, BULLET, as well as a performance with House of Vibe at their Singer’s Lounge series. www.bandsintown.com/morganmallory
Anything else before we sign off?
Follow me on the gram! Tell your friends about me if you dig it! New music is coming out every month this year, so check back regularly. I genuinely hope to hear from you online/see you at a show. It’s just a big family, and it’s only getting bigger.
