Maya Kuriel – Liquid Courage

By starrymag | September 30, 2024

By: Lisa Steinberg

 

 

Q) How would you describe your sound?

 

A) I’m a Korean American pop artist! My sound definitely leans in the darker direction. I love haunting vocal melodies and layered synths. I would say my lyrics are pretty descriptive. I’ll describe a certain situation to a tee and hold nothing back. A lot of the messages in my music center around self-acceptance, love, anxiety, mental health and female empowerment!

 

Q) Who are some of your musical influences?

 

A) Billie Eilish’s new album has been on repeat at the moment, so that’s a big one. UPSAHL, Leyla Blue and Olivia O’Brien to name a few. Lyrically, they are all geniuses, and I’m definitely inspired by the dark production elements in their music. I love my pop girlies!

 

Q) Talk about the story behind your new song ‘Liquid Courage.’

 

A) I remember the phrase “Liquid Courage” being thrown around a lot while going out with friends and I always remember feeling like I didn’t need it, but that it would be the perfect little boost of self-confidence. I have some social anxiety, so a nudge of “Liquid Courage” is definitely helpful in those situations!

 

Q) It’s such a banger! What do you think it is about the song that fans connect to?

 

A) Thank you! “Liquid Courage” is definitely a reflection of my own experiences in social situations, but it’s a topic that I know resonates with a lot of people around my age. I think “Liquid Courage” captures both topics of social anxiety and self confidence in one go which I think is honest and real, but in a fun and light-hearted way!

 

Q) What is your song writing process? Do you need music before you can create lyrics?

 

A) My process honestly switches all the time, but I feel like lately it’s been the lyrics that come first. I like thinking of a lyric, concept or even just a title and use that as a starting point. That actually helps me think of chords I want to use based on the emotion I’m trying to portray.

 

Q) How much of a hand do you have in the production of your music?

 

A) I like to be very involved in the production. I went to school for Songwriting and Music Production, so I’m very grateful to have the educational background that allows me to dive deep into every aspect of my music. I like being hands-on for the writing (my favorite part), arranging, production and occasionally mix/master!

 

Q) With “Liquid Courage” out, how do you plan to celebrate the release?

 

A) The day it came out, I was actually celebrating by opening for SAAY – a very talented Korean artist. I got to sing “Liquid Courage” at the end of my set at the Moroccan Lounge in Downtown LA and it was an amazing time. Definitely the perfect way to celebrate.

 

Q) Will there be a full album or EP coming in the near future?

 

A) I would like to release a project soon. Right now, I’m pushing out singles, but I definitely have plans to release a project in the future. There’s lots of songs in the vault!

 

Q) Where are some of your favorite places to perform and what makes those locations so significant to you?

 

A) The recent Moroccan Lounge show might be the winner. It was my first time being there and I really love the venue! It feels big but also intimate at the same time.

 

Q) Who would you most like to collaborate with on a song in the future?

 

A) Harry Styles would be insane. I really adore his music. Even just singing with him one day would be a dream.

 

Q) What artist/musician are you currently listening to and why do you dig them?

 

A) Billie Eilish, Renee Rapp and Lana Del Rey are my go to’s right now. They all have found such a distinct sound and I’m a sucker for clever lyricism!

 

Q) What would you like to say to everyone who is a fan and supporter of you and your work?

 

A) I love and appreciate you!!! It’s mind blowing that people care to listen to my music and pinch myself every single day because of it. Thank you for listening and I hope to get to perform for you soon!