Inspiration comes from great humanity. When I see people do wonderful things for each other I am inspired. Art, music, vulnerability, nobility, tenderness, beauty, forgiving, nurturing, unselfish people.
Dear Malia,
I’m listening to “Don’t Explain” on repeat from your album “Black Orchid” while jotting down the questions for our interview. The only thing I want to say about your voice is that it’s what we here in Greece call an old-fashioned voice. A voice full of memories and emotion. I could say a lot more, but it’s better to start with the questions.
Your mother is from Malawi and your father is British. What kind of music was played in your household and how did it influence your evolution?
I spent a lot of time outdoors when I was growing up. I did nit get into music deeply until my early teens, when I could buy my own records that suited my musical taste.
You started working as a waitress and simultaneously formed your own band, playing in clubs in London. During a trip to New York, you met the famous Liane Foly and through her, you met André Manoukian. What do you remember from those early years?
Yes, I worked as a waitress in a Jazz Club and met and learned from many musicians that played there. I did not meet Liane Foly personally but her music. I remember the excitement of possibilities and chasing my instincts to pursue a career in music. I became a little obsessed and rode the waves.
Can you imagine how your life would be today if you had made different choices? What determines a correct choice?
I try not to think about that. One cannot go back. I am happy with the most meaningful things in my life.
Do you believe in inspiration? How do you experience that moment?
Yes, I do. I need it to move forward. Inspiration comes from great humanity. When I see people do wonderful things for each other I am inspired. Art, music, vulnerability, nobility, tenderness, beauty, forgiving, nurturing, unselfish people.
Who do you consider your mentors?
For my Music, It is Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughn, Nina Simone to name a few. In life, kind people with a lot of light, love and patience.
Is there something someone told you that still follows you to this day?
I am sure there are many things, we all impact each other. I will have to come back to you on that one 😉
Can you tell me about an important event in your life that has marked you as a person but also as an artist?
I don’t know how to answer that? I just do what I do and follow through.
What was the biggest obstacle you had to overcome at some point in your life?
To understand that nothing in life is personal
Have you made mistakes? Is there one that you make again and again? Do mistakes lead us to the right path?
Yes I make mistakes, all the time, but I call them learning blocks
What do you consider your greatest accomplishment?
To have lived as long as I have and travelled far and wide in body and spirit and allowed myself to grow
What words or phrases do you use most often? What is your motto?
Live, life, love
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
That all humans take care of each other and especially the vulnerable ones and violence and abuse would be a place of “NO ENTRANCE”
What is your greatest fear?
That we will never reach the above.
What is Jazz?
Jazz is music, inspiration, love, beauty, talent.
Will you share a bohemian story with us?
Through tithe music, stories are always shared, this is my feeling.
On Friday, February 23rd, you will start performances at the Half Note Jazz Club. How do you imagine the Greek audience and what can we expect from you and your band?
I am expecting warm wonderful people and so is my band!
In conclusion, I would like to thank you for your time, and we look forward to seeing you up close.
Best of luck with your dreams!
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