MAX MADLY: A Troubadour for Mental Health
By Cecilia Mencia
Music has always reflected cultural, political, and social movements, but what about mental health? In recent years, mainstream musicians have been working towards destigmatizing mental health by opening up about their own struggles like Adele, Billie Eilish, and more.
Max Madly, is one such new storyteller, at the forefront of unmasking mental health. Madly’s music conjures up a sense of foreboding while innocence prevails. Her voice, sweet and strong creates a vibe and energy all its own. She’s a mental health advocate using her platform and art to speak up and not shy away from taboos and negative connotations about mental health. During these precarious times of heightened pandemic anxiety, Madly’s voice is an essential part of the conversation.
Madly is relatively new to the LA stage having moved to the area just a few years ago. But she’s been making music for some time now starting in her hometown of Great Falls, Virginia. Her new and second release, “i love me, i loathe me” (release date 2/13/22) runs deep to the core of her expression of mental health, much like that of her first release “The Haunt.”
“Smile through the pain, dear.”
We caught up with Madly and had a candid conversation about who she is, and where she’s going with her music.
What inspired you to take on the "Max Madly" persona as a performer?
Max Madly is the artistic expression of my thoughts, feelings, and beliefs. In my head, I have this vision of a different universe where Max Madly embodies everything that I am and want to be.
Your music and performance are haunting. What drew you to this genre of music?
Honestly, I never consider genres when writing or composing my own music. I definitely understand the impulse to categorize art, but I personally don't when it comes to my own work.
I'm very moody and impulsive, and I feel like my music reflects that. I want what I write to express how I'm feeling in the moment, which is why I think most of it ends up sounding dark and sad. I think people tend to reject negative feelings and see them as "bad" or "not normal." I find those feelings to be the most beautiful part of being a human.
Would you say you're an introvert or extrovert?
I've always been very introverted. It's one of my favorite qualities about myself. I like socializing with people that I can connect with on a deeper level, but I usually prefer to be alone. My parents used to joke that even as a young child, I could be left alone for days and I would find a way to entertain myself. I was always in my own world and I still kind of am.
Have you collaborated with other musicians? Who would be your dream collab?
I'm very excited about the artists I've worked with in Los Angeles so far. Even though our collaborations aren’t official yet, it's been fulfilling to be surrounded by so many creative and talented people. Huge shout out to Louie Louie for his work on my debut single, "The Haunt."
There are way too many artists on my list, but to name a few: Labrinth, FKA Twigs, Agnes Obel, Mareux, Jack White, and Flea would all be a dream to work with.
Listen to her latest release, “i love me, i loathe me,” and the rest of her music on Spotify and YouTube linked below. Keep up with Max by Following her on Instagram (@max.madly), TikTok (@maxmadly), and Twitter (@maxmadl
Video — The Haunt
Cecilia Mencia is a journalist and founder of DCTRENDING.com. Bio linked here.