In the latest installation of Under the Spotlight, I interview singer-songwriter Malida. The singer grew up in Boston (she was born in Haiti and came to the USA at the age of five), and has released several singles. “Cherie” (Bae), produced by beatmaker Mark G, tells the story of a couple who were initially paired together by mutual friends.
Malida writes her own songs like the bouncy “Your Love”, with its inflections of Caribbean pop.
K. St. Fort: Tell us more about yourself.
I started signing at church and currently run a youth group that sings every first Sunday of the month. I love music and was always surrounded by music at home when growing up. I grew up listening to Coupe, Tabou, Ska Shah and System so sticking to my roots made sense. I knew that I could not be a konpa artist since I did not have a band. So, when I got with my producer Mark G, we infused konpa and zouk in most of my album. I still reside in Boston and have a seven year old son named Alex. I am a bank manager by day and my dream is to travel the world as a singer. I believe and know that dreams do come true.
K. St. Fort: The country singer Reba McEntire once told an interviewer that she like story songs…songs that tell a story. What sorts of songs do you prefer to sing and listen to?
The songs I write do tell a story, mostly a love story. I like listening to songs that have a meaning behind them.
K. St. Fort: What do you recall of your first performance?
First performance was a bit scary I wasn’t sure if anyone in the crowd knew my song but they did. I was truly nervous but the positive reaction from the crowd eased my nerves
K. St. Fort: When you have a big performance coming up, what steps do you take to prepare?
I rehearse and rehearse and rehearse. I also try my best to stay relaxed and focus by walking and meditating. I also say a prayer before each show.
K. St. Fort: Have there been singers that have made an impact on your artistry?
I think a great performer doesn’t only sing well but interacts with the crowd and dances well. People in the HMI like Reginald Cange is one of my favorite performers to watch perform as well as Beyonce.
K. St. Fort: Do you think it’s important for a female singer to have business sense as well as musical talent?
It’s critical to have business sense because in this industry most are out for themselves. I have the background in business financial management and having that has allowed me to make good decisions in regards to my musical career.
K. St. Fort: When was the last time you went to Haiti? And as you answer, please keep in mind that this isn’t a shaming question, but a…consciousness question.
Last time I’ve been to Haiti was in 2002… I can’t wait to go back!
K. St. Fort: How do you go about creating your songs?
My songs come straight from my experiences and my heart. I write all my music so when I sing it I feel it.
K. St. Fort: Did you ever experience jealousy with friends and peers in school because of your vocal talents?
Not directly. But, of course there will always be people who wish they could be better than you. I like critics because they help me master my art.
K. St. Fort: Talk to me about that song “Danse Ave’m”.
“Danse Ave’m” is about going out and knowing that there is that one person that you can’t wait to dance with. Again I talk from my heart so I wrote this song in reference to me going through that experience of getting all dressed up to dance the night away with him.
K. St. Fort: What are we to expect from you in the future?
Expect to see tours and a few videos from the album to drop before the end of the year.
[Photos Credit: Its Popo ]
