Below, you can read our interview with artist Jimmy Mallia.
Hi Jimmy! Could you please introduce yourself and give us a brief overview of your musical career and what you do?
I’ve just begun releasing music within the last year. Although I was in business for over 30 years, I’ve been writing songs for 16 years and decided it was time to try my hand at releasing some. I released a song called “Hey Hey” in October 2023, and it did pretty well on Spotify and YouTube. After that, I released “Cover Me” and recently, a song called “Go Wrong.” All of my songs tend to be on the storytelling and ballad side. If I had to pick a genre, I would say it is a blend of country, folk, and Americana. My songs are personal and usually drawn from my own experiences.
Who are your biggest musical influences and how have they shaped your sound and style?
Jim Croce, John Prine, Johnny Cash, Tim Mahew, Garth Brooks, Randy Travis, and Willie Nelson. A mixture of old country and folk influences. I think my taste and style are a unique blend.
Can you share with us the journey you’ve taken to get to where you are today in the music industry?
I am new to the music business after being in a different industry for over 30 years, so this is all new to me and a new journey. But I’m taking this time to put my work out there and see if there is an audience that appreciates it. I hope that it touches people and they can relate to it. Most of my songs are about struggles, joy, and overcoming obstacles. I hope they bring hope and inspiration to those struggling.
Tell us about your music. Can you walk us through your creative process when writing and producing new music?
My songs seem to start in the same way. I have a thought, a concept, or a simple line that I like, then I simply start writing what comes to mind regarding that theme. Once I’ve laid down all the verses and the chorus in the correct rhythm, I work with someone to lay down the chords. Normally, I simply start singing the melody, and as we work on it, we lay down the chords. Then comes the tweaking. I focus on the mood of the message or story I am trying to evoke. It is important to me that the song touches people in words and feelings.
What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in your career, and how did you overcome them?
I have overcome a drinking problem, mental depression, and many heartaches. Any struggle I face in music is minor. It either is accepted and well-received or it is not. It is tough to maneuver how to get my music out there and heard by as many people as possible. The music industry has changed so much over the years. It is not as simple as playing at places and hoping you get discovered. There is so much music out there. Hopefully, mine will stand out as unique.
Looking back on your career, is there anything you would have done differently? What are some key lessons you’ve learned?
I would have played live more for the experience. I would have started earlier and younger. However, I needed to be in this place in my life to be able to do this.
What strategies or practices have you implemented that you believe have been crucial to your success in the music industry?
Getting on playlists has been extremely helpful to reach a large audience. Spotify and YouTube have been vital.
What has been the most memorable moment of your career so far?
Hearing my first song on Spotify and people stating that the song is stuck in their heads.
Can you tell us about any upcoming projects or releases that you’re excited about?
“Go Wrong” was my third release and I have some more lined up to release. I would love for a label to pick me up to do an album all at once.
Do you have any advice or messages you’d like to share with our readers, particularly those aspiring to pursue a career in music?
If it is your dream, go for it. It doesn’t matter your age or experience. If it is a dream, pursue it. At least you can say you put it out there, no matter the outcome. I would rather fail than live with regret.
Before we wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to add or share with our audience?
I hope you find meaning in and relate to my songs. My goal is to touch people’s lives and have them relate to my stories. Find comfort, hope, and solace.
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