“Hardships are often followed by rewards,” muses the talented UK-based singer and songwriter mlbacard¡. With a timbre reminiscent of a contemporary Amy Winehouse – a dash smoky, rife with character, and unequivocally fresh – she stands out as an emblem of raw talent and unyielding passion. She’s genuine, introspective, and wrapped in layers of self-deprecating humor. “You have to believe in yourself first. Sometimes, pretending things are okay is the best way through, and friends often remind us of who you are,” she candidly shares.
mlbacard¡’s debut album, “I LOVE TO DO MY OWN STUNTS,” is not just a collection of truly stunning songs, but a story stitched with vulnerability, insight, and authenticity. Each track offers an auditory delight, from the smoky undertones to the intricacies of her vocal prowess, inviting listeners to join on an emotional odyssey exploring themes from personal growth to societal conditioning.
In our interview, we touch upon her journey into music, her musings on adulthood, the thought processes behind her sartorial decisions, and so much more.
Photography by KID CIRCUS
I am just listening to your EP ‘I LOVE TO DO MY OWN STUNTS’ – and I love it. It’s such a fresh sound and your voice shines out in such a cool way. When did you realize that you had a talent and passion for music?
Thank you so much, I’m flattered and most of all, happy to hear that you love the EP! On my 4th birthday, I asked for a dog and a guitar (unfortunately didn’t get the dog). I knew then that I wanted a career in music but never actually thought it would become a reality. But here we are now.
The EP is about your development from your teens to adulthood. How old are you now and what does it mean for you to be an adult? And how has your perspective on life changed compared to when you were a teen?
I am currently 22 years old. For me, being an adult means acknowledging responsibilities. But it’s also realizing that no one truly “grows up.” We remain fundamentally the same, just gaining more experience. These experiences have taught me that hardships are often followed by rewards. This understanding has shaped my perspective, making me realize that everything will eventually be okay.
One of the tracks is called “Guinea Pig.” In your words about the song: “It is about the social conditioning that we’ve become numb to. We are all slaves to consumerism, whether we like it or not. This song speaks about the pollution of minds and how focusing on the little things brings back a bit of our humanity. It can be the most successful attempt at control. Focusing on what makes us human.” So, what makes us human? What should be our focus?
I believe what makes us human are our 5 senses. These basic senses – vision, hearing, touch, smell, and taste – move us and are essential to our well-being. Our focus should be on what stimulates and differentiates us, reconnecting with ourselves and others, beyond the constructs that often numb us.
“For me, being an adult means acknowledging responsibilities.”
What is your favourite track on the EP and why? Where do you get the inspiration for your outfits, and how long do you usually spend deciding what to wear for a gig?
My favourite song on the EP is “GUINEA PIG.” I like the idea of challenging the big corporations that subtly rule our world and highlighting the state of numbness we often fall into. As for my outfits, inspiration comes from everywhere, so it’s hard to pinpoint. However, prepping for a gig might be instant or take up to 2 hours, depending on my mood and inspiration that day.
You mentioned that it’s good to have a humorous approach to life, rather than dwelling on sadness. Despite being familiar with life’s sad phases, what was the last thing that made you laugh, or where you found humor in yourself?
A recent funny moment was when my friend and I tried catching grapes with our mouths. Pausing the video, we looked like we were yelling at the grapes. It was hilarious!
“Our focus should be on what stimulates and differentiates us, reconnecting with ourselves and others.”
During tough times, what helps you the most?
In sad phases, I meditate, write music, and work out. I also try to keep busy and focus on my goals. Spending time with friends is crucial. Sometimes, pretending things are okay is the best way through, and friends often remind us of who we are.
Where do you see yourself in about 5 years?
I genuinely see myself selling out big venues in 5 years. You have to believe in yourself first. I often say, “I’m giving myself 3 years to become a known name in the industry,” so by 5 years, I expect things to really take off.
“I like the idea of challenging the big corporations that subtly rule our world.”
Who is your role model in life?
My role model in life is my mom. She’s one of the strongest people I know.
Name three things you cannot live without.
A: I can’t live without my headphones, my rings (I feel naked without them), and light-tinted glasses (my trick for skipping concealer).
