With a sound that is described as "rapturous, intimate, and experimental", Chicago-based newcomer Murad is now looking to cement herself on the world with the release of her debut single 'Laser Love'.
With a background that looks to take cues from the realms for soul and hip-hop throughout, 'Laser Love' makes for a wonderful introduction to the artist. Filled with pounding beats, a rich atmosphere, and her own soaring vocals, expect this to be the first of many captivating works from her to come.
So with the new single doing the rounds right now, we sat down with her to find out more about her origins and what has inspired her most over the years.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
Technically the first instrument I fell in love with was voice because I started singing as a child, singing Russian techno with my dad in the car. But I also fell in love with guitar when I was 12 years old and have been playing since.
What has been the most prominent inspiration behind your music so far?
The most prominent inspiration behind my music so far has been the challenge. It’s the most complicated but rewarding relationship I’ve ever had and teaches me new lessons about being an artist and businesswoman all the time.
What kind of music did you love as a teenager?
I loved so many types of music as a teenager, punk, hip hop, indie, soul, R&B, rap, electronic etc. I’ve always had a wide range of genres that I have listened to which I think has caused my style to be pretty genre bending.
What inspires you to make music?
My love for music itself has inspired me the most to make music. I’ve always known I loved it, listening, creating and performing it.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
The artists I’ve been listening to the most lately are Joji, Tove Lo and Arlo Parks.
How many of your songs have you written about people in your life?
Other people have inspired almost all of the songs I’ve written so far. The only song about my own personal experience is Laser Love, which is about my relationship with music.
What has been the most unusual moment in your career so far?
The most unusual moment in my career so far has probably been filming a music video and having to do the whole thing to stand up for myself, my team and the creative vision.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
If I could open for anyone in the world I might choose MIA because I heard she puts on one of the best and most empowering shows. I could learn a few things about stage presence from her.
If you weren’t a musician, what other path do you think you might have taken?
If I weren’t a musician, I might be a nutritionist, yoga teacher, or a botanist.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
The best advice I have received has come from King (my producer) “When people show you who they are, believe them.”
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Murad's debut single 'Laser Love' is available to stream and download now. Have a listen to it in the player below.