Dana Colwell Photography
Interviews
Malek Hanna – Which Way To Go
By: Lisa Steinberg
Q) How would you describe your sound?
A) My sound is distinctive, as it combines classic, soul and pop elements fused with some Middle Eastern instrumentation. I would classify myself as a passionate blue eyed soul singer.
Q) Who are some of your musical influences?
A) Some of my musical influences are sultry and powerhouse vocalists like Luther Vandross, George Michael, Tom Jones, Billy Joel, Brian McKnight and Stevie Wonder.
Q) Talk about the story behind your new song “Which Way To Go.” What do you think it is about the song that fans will connect to?
A) “Which Way to Go” was inspired by the need to create something that is authentic and universal. It was co-written by music partner, Jeff Stolper, and me. We wanted to create a song that can be relevant while also illustrating the crossroads in my personal life; the road less traveled and why we do the things we do is a universal question that fans can connect with in different ways. The decision one makes in life, whether to “follow your heart,” as the lyric says or live a more conventional life that is expected of you. I hope that fans will connect to this song, as it is meant to inspire and encourage those to “look deep inside,” as the lyric says, and to never give up on your dreams.
Q) How will the video for “Which Way to Go” play into the message behind it?
A) In the video, I am at a crossroads; I have to decide “which way to go,” do I “listen to my heart” and pursue a career as a musical artist or do I do as I was told, and take over the business? In the end, as the lyrics say, “It’s the only way to go,” that being, to “believe in yourself” and choose the road less traveled which then leads to having a successful music career, as reflected in the end of the music video. The message of the song is visually illustrated by the storyline throughout the video and is personified by the actors playing my sister (Sasha Capps) and my mom (Holly Photenhauer).
Q) The song comes out here on Sept. 12th! How do you plan to celebrate?
A) I am looking forward to the upcoming release and hope it resonates with a global audience! I plan to celebrate with my immediate musical team over a few celebratory drinks while screening the music video at my home in Los Angeles.
Q) What is your song writing process? Do you need music before you can create lyrics?
A) My song writing process depends on my mood and who I am collaborating with. I typically start with an idea of what I want to say and/or express and then write down some words, which then leads to creating a melody. I’ve worked on music in different ways; sometimes I will start with the music or track and build on that, while other times, I start with lyrics and then build the music that will go with the sentiment of what I am trying to express.
Q) How much of a hand do you have in the production of your music?
A) I am involved across the board with the production of the music, as the song develops and ultimately creates a world of its own, yet I leave the technical nitty gritty to my beloved and multi-talented music producer, Xavier Cevrin.
Q) Will there be a full album or EP coming in the near future?
A) Yes!! After this single is released, I will have another one or two original singles, which then will lead to the album On the Right Track, consisting of about eight to nine songs. Stay tuned for lots more to come!
Q) What lessons or advice did you take to heart from your time on “The Voice: Arabia?”
A) The lessons I’ve learned from my experience on “The Voice: Arabia” is to recognize and learn the business of music, as the industry is not only about talent. There are so many moving parts and being consistent is essential. Your story and the message behind your music is critical towards creating a brand that will set you apart from other artists. My experience on the show encouraged me to find my brand and my voice. My advice is to stay in your lane and collaborate with as many artists as possible until you find what works for you.
Q) You’ve performance for The Pope at The Vatican and the National Anthem at an LA Lakers. What do these incredible accomplishments mean to you?
A) Performing for the Pope in Italy was something that will always put a smile on my face. It was a surreal experience singing on a platform that was filled with people yearning for connection, hope and praise. It was a celebration of love that demonstrated the universal power of music and its ability to heal. Singing the anthem and leading a congregation in song at the Staples Center for the LA Lakers was also very meaningful, so much fun, but also nerve-racking. I didn’t want to start in the wrong key. Fortunately, I got it right and I think I did a pretty good job.
Q) Who would you most like to collaborate with on a song in the future?
A) I am currently collaborating with the iconic Roslyn Kind on a duet along with Latin Grammy winner Paulina Aguirre. Other than that, it would be another dream to do a collaboration with Stevie Wonder.
Q) You are a part of social media. Why is that such an important way for you to connect with your fans?
A) Social media is a world in itself and is critical for connecting to fans. It provides you with a vehicle to communicate and share your work in a way that you weren’t able to years ago. It provides people with an outlet to interact and share ideas in a space that is intended to encourage individuality and free speech.
Q) What would you like to say to everyone who is a fan and supporter of you and your work?
A) I would like this time to thank everyone for their love, support and encouragement for without you, I would not be able to do what I do! I love you guys and can’t wait to create more music that will hopefully resonate with you!
Listen to “Which Way To Go”
Follow Malek Hannah on Social Media
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