MYSIE: ‘CONTROLLA’: NEW EP

Musician Mysie is an exciting talent who has achieved considerable success over the last few years. Hailing from South London, in 2019 she began releasing music on Soundcloud followed by her debut EP Chapter 11. In 2020 she received the prestigious Ivor Novello Awards’ Rising Star award.  This was then followed by the release of the pop influenced EP  Joyride. Mysie then began to focus on having more creative control over her music by co-producing her newest EP CONTROLLA. Due for release at the end of September, it is set to be Mysie’s most exciting release yet. We were pleased to interview Mysie and talk about her music and plans for the future.

Congratulations on your debut mixtape, CONTROLLA. Can you tell us more about the message behind it?

Thank you! CONTROLLA is about reclaiming control over my life. The project was crafted over two years, during which I explored my roots and discovered who I truly am without outside influences. It’s about taking control of every aspect of my life, from personal relationships to professional ones. CONTROLLA marks a pivotal moment where I decided not to pass the baton or coast through life anymore. This project is about empowerment and standing your ground while making these decisions because, believe it or not, not everyone likes it when you’re in control.

You are touring with IAMDDB in autumn. How do you prepare for a tour, and what kind of show can we expect?

This show is going to be hype, for sure. I’m working alongside my cousin, Jotham, and we really know how to energize a crowd. Preparation for the tour involves a lot of rehearsals, discussions about the impact we want to create, and what kind of set I want to bring to my new listeners. Plus, plenty of singing lessons – hehe!

 You won the Ivor Novello Rising Star Award in 2021. How important are accolades to you?

Accolades are a great form of recognition and achievement, and receiving the Ivor Novello Award was such an honor, especially for my songwriting. However, I don’t measure success by accolades because, to be honest, the world is a subjective place!

 Which musical artists would you say have influenced your sound?

Growing up in the dance scene, I listened to a lot of Flying Lotus, Samiyam, Hudson Mohawke, and Thundercat. I also grew up with artists like Disclosure and anything I’d hear in the clubs—people like Armand Van Helden, Dam Swindle, Myd, and Yaeji. They had a huge impact on me, even more than I realized at the time. The Jersey club scene also plays a big role in my sound, with influences from artists like Cookie Kawaii, DJ Smallz 732, and UNIIQU3.

 You have never wanted to be defined by one musical style, and with your new single ‘PHASES’ being a more upbeat dance track, how do you see your music evolving over time?

I’m carving out my own sound and path, which can be challenging when trying to reach new audiences. I see my sound evolving within the electronic/dance space, and I hope it continues to make waves and grow.

 You are now co-producing your music. What were your priorities as a producer when working on this mix tape?

As a producer, my top priority was ensuring that everything tied together seamlessly, creating something authentic to me and my influences. I focus a lot on the details and structure, both melodically and rhythmically, because I believe that’s where the magic happens. It was crucial for me to stay true to my vision and make sure that every element of the mix tape reflects who I am as an artist.

 Outside of music, are there any other areas of the creative industry that you would like to be involved in?

Acting, directing, and creating custom content for Sims 4!

Mysie’s new single Kitty On Top is released today and available on all music platforms.

Follow Mysie on Instagram @mmmmysie