Ms. M|CHL, (pronounced: Mz Michael) is the living embodiment of contradiction. Her life, her music, and even her name all reveal her existence on opposite ends of the spectrum. Growing up a black girl in rural Oklahoma, Ms. M|CHL found solace performing in the church with her family, beginning at the age of five. At twelve years old she began writing songs and discovered the profound healing power music offered. While her earliest writings were inspired by her first influences of Prince, Whitney Houston, and Janet Jackson. Ms. M|CHL’s work would evolve into being impacted by her love for Nirvana, Soundgarden, and Nine Inch Nails.
By Kamil Bobin
Discovered via Musosoup
What first got you into music?
I started singing with my grandfather in church at the age of five. After my first performance, I was hooked! I knew that I wanted to sing for the rest of my life.
Who would you most like to collaborate with?
My ultimate dream would be to work with Prince. But here in the real world, I am a huge fan of Cautious Clay and Active Child. I would love to see what we could accomplish together.
Your latest song is 'New Heartache'. Can you tell us more about the making of it and if there were any unusual things happening during the process?
The making of this record was blissfully effortless. I had the idea for the story on a Tuesday evening, my producer/co-writer Damon Turner, sent me the track on Thursday evening. I started sketching it out and had it written by Friday morning. If flowed out of me and it is just a testament to writing what you know and what you feel can never lead you astray.
What are you focusing on right now?
Right now I am focusing on finishing recording the rest of the album. And I love to start playing shows again soon as well.
What are you most proud of?
These days I am extremely proud of my ability to never give up. There have been so many ups and downs in this process and through it all, in spite of the unknown, I have kept pushing. I am certain the album will be an amazing work of art that conveys my resilience.
What is the biggest challenge of being an artist?
I think it is different for everyone. But I can say for me the self-doubt and fear of the unknown is the hardest thing for me to grapple with. You just never know how your Art is going to be received. And that is not only frightening, it can be very distracting and worst of all, defeating. But the fight is also glorious and validating. That’s why I’m still here, pouring my whole heart into the work. Hoping it connects with someone out there in a positive way.
How do you structure your day?
Well, like many indie artists, I have a day job that requires a lot of my time. But when it’s time to work on music, I make sure to start by drilling down the details to really understand what my goal is or what I am trying to express. Then it is just a matter of trial and error until something feels right. I also make a concerted effort to not force it if nothing is coming. I work as long as my body and mind allow, then I rest to do it all again tomorrow.
Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of music?
I love making art in a variety of ways. I like to design and sew clothes, I have been messing around with abstract painting a little, as well as a little bit of fun with transforming furniture.
Do you sing in the shower? What songs?
Of course! I listen to music every time I shower, so I always sing along! Lately, Kendrick Lamar’s King Kunta has been my favorite way to start the day. It’s fire!
What are your plans for the future?
I would love to be able to tour the U.S. and abroad after the album drops. And of course, I want to continue writing and creating with my new music family. The sky is the limit and I am very excited to see what’s next.