Moonchild Sanelly – Full Moon

By: Jamie Steinberg

Q) How would you describe your sound?

A) I’d describe my sound as edgy, energetic, inspiring and makes you lose your morals.

Q) Who are some of your musical influences?

A) I love Beyoncé’s work ethic and the moves she makes. I’m inspired by South African queens Brenda Fassie and Busi Mhlongo. For the most part I try to stay in my own bubble so I can stay authentic in my creativity when it comes to songwriting. Artists I would love to collaborate with are Doechii, Doja Cat, Nicki Minaj and every woman that liberates other women – that’s who I want to be in the studio with.

Q) What are some themes you explore on your new album Full Moon?

A) Vulnerability was a big one for me. In the song “Falling” I share a conversation I have with myself in the mirror before I come out and liberate the world. Also, I always have the girl anthems for the black sheep and pussy owner.

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

A) I can write a song to metronome or even nothing at all – I don’t need a beat.  Give me a theme, and the pictures/story I see in my head I translate into words. 

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

A) I’d say because of how I hear music and the melodies I create, I find that it inspires the producer to enhance the song with instruments that align with how I sound.

Q) My fav songs on Full Moon are “Scrambled Eggs” and “Sweet and Savage.” Which of the tracks hold a special significance for you and what makes it such a standout?

A) OMG! “Scrambled Eggs” is my current fav, too! (It changes with every listen) because I’m seen as humble and I dont brag with flashy name brand clothing and material things, I flex differently from other artists. Growing up, even getting to eat an avo was a privilege I couldn’t afford before, but now I eat avo scrambled eggs every day!

Q) What do you hope listeners take away from listening to your new EP as a whole?

A) In the bigger scheme of life you are part of change. Own your power. Don’t forget who the f*ck you are! Let’s keep shaking our booties, owning our bodies and owning our narrative. Let’s not be apologetic about any of that because you matter! There’s no expiry date to your dreams!

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

A) Definitely in the United Kingdom. Everyone always tells me that they are shy, but at a Moon show everyone is free and shaking their booty! It’s freakin’ beautiful to see, and the spirit speaks and the words connect to my entirety.

Australia – it doesn’t matter where in Aus you may be, they love live music. Maybe it is because they are so far from the rest of the world? I love Spain, too. Their energy is undeniable, they can party and it doesn’t even matter that they cannot understand the lyrics sometimes – they love music over there!  

Q) You’ve worked with incredible talents like Beyoncé, Tierra Whack, Gorillaz, Steve Aoki, Diplo and more. Who would you currently like to collaborate with on a song in the future?

A) Doechii and Doja Cat

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

A) Current playlist is filled with Doechii. I love the way she approaches her writing and she’s flippin’ amazing.

Doja Cat – I feel like she ran for everyone else to walk in this era. I also recently discovered Samara Cyn. I love her melodies and her writing. My girl Muni Long, too. Her latest offering is so beautiful.

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

A) Thank you for all your love and support. Let’s keep shaking the world and keep shaking our asses!