What’s your stage name and where are you from?
Aye whaddup, this here’s Maverick Blues and I’m originally from this great place called Penang in Malaysia.
What’s the story behind your stage name?
I wanted something that characterized strength like a titan, and I landed on Maverick, which aligned with famous characters like MacGyver. I chose Blues to complement it, because much like the genre, there is polarity with the strength trait in the musicians and great sadness in their life, and I felt that was apt.
Describe your musical journey in three sentences.
It has been ongoing as a way of life (rap freestyling and writing) since I was 15. I really started getting into it, i.e., recording in 2018. I didn’t release anything for two years between 2022-2023, but now I’m back and raring for more.
Share an interesting experience you had while creating your latest track.
I really liked the beat from the start. It wasn’t what I was quite accustomed to rapping over, but it had a Tommy Richman, Brent Faiyaz feel to it, and I was eager to feel my flow over it. I felt the beginning of the track had a mumble-singing aspect to it, and it had an energetic jump that complemented my verses.
What message do you want to convey through your music?
I think above all, I want to convey hope, whether it’s through abstract lyrics or those more rooted in real-life. To show that imagination is a gateway to coping with the trials and tribulations of day-to-day living.
Tell us about a challenge you faced during production and how you overcame it.
I’m honestly very limited in the mixing and mastering aspect of the music, which is why I was glad to return to collaborating with my good friend, RELDIL // @selfdynity on Instagram, who helped immensely with refining the sound of my latest song ‘Cabaret’.
If you could collaborate with any artist, who would it be and why?
It’d have to be Kendrick Lamar. I love his philosophies and method in crafting a track. He exemplifies the attitude of “doing it out of love of the game,” which I prioritize. If it’s someone closer to home, it’s Fauxe from Singapore. He’s so eclectic and experimental with his approach.
Where do you see your music taking you in the next year?
I would like to see through more releases on music platforms. I really want to sharpen my penmanship and direct way to do this by keeping writing and recording. I also aim to perform live more often and gain a more formidable stage presence.
What’s the next big step for you as an artist?
An EP perhaps would be the next big step. I’ve only previously released singles. An EP would entail more time and effort concurrently to pull off, and I’m excited about it!
We occasionally feature artists on our Bird of Paradise Podcast for in-depth discussions. Would this be something you’re interested in exploring?
Yes.
Are there any other promotional opportunities you’re looking for to boost your visibility?
I’m looking at potential collaborators, especially ladies who can serve a magnetic hook/chorus. I’d also appreciate the opportunity to make it onto more playlists and blogs like Folded Waffle.
Where can we hear/watch your most recent work?
On Spotify as Maverick Blues. Here’s the link.
What is the best way to contact you if fans want to give feedback or if other artists/producers want to collaborate?
Through my Instagram @yourfavhiphophead.
