An Interview With Mackenzie Sol
A new single release from Mackenzie Sol delivers a very unique breed of honesty that comes through in a robust and heavy-handed character and this is all delivered with an edgy but colorful pop approach to the brim with that vivacious but genuine personality.
"Anxiety" certainly comes from someplace very real especially if you listen to the lyrics and it's honestly something that is extremely relatable to a lot of us but not many of us can take these certain kinds of thoughts and spend them into words a little long music as well so when someone that has a certain level of anxiety or stress, personal demons or inner struggle, it's good to hear a song like this because in a way, it lets them feel like maybe they're not alone in that.
Now, having said that, Mackenzie pulls this off in a very colorful way because he's portraying himself completely honestly as I mentioned earlier, but it's also a pop song even though it has its elements of aggression and frustration, it comes through super danceable, catchy, and fun as well.
So, with this track in particular you're getting the best of a few different worlds and I really love songs that have such an uplifted musical taste to them with lyrics that are so brutally honest at times that it makes you think.
In a way, it feels like this track may have even been cathartic for Mackenzie to write and release but for the listener, it's just totally understandable and the way that he displays his thoughts on this track is outstanding.
This has such an addictive soundscape to it with pianos, and a driving beat that in a way almost lets the song feel theatrical which is something I adore because it adds to the character of the song itself.
This is a unique combination of a song that lets him display certain personal truths but in an animated way.
This whole thing was put together with a lot of attention to detail but there's also this fun looseness to it as well that lets it feel alive and breathing in a sense.
The production of this track is outstanding and vocally Mackenzie puts a lot of himself into this track and gives off a songwriting approach that feels robust and in your face but fun all at the same time.
With the release of such a well-woven and honest single, we wanted to have a sit down with MacKenzie Sol to find out where this actually came from and what might be coming up next for the artist.
Here's what happened.
TSWS: Hey Mackenzie! Let's talk a bit about "Anxiety"! I loved the fact that it was so honest but also so colorful at the same time! Where did this song come from?
When I was 10 I was diagnosed with Tourette’s syndrome, part of having TS is anxiety. I actually wrote the song in bed one night. I couldn’t sleep, had a knot in my stomach making up some horrible things in my head and over thinking.I started writing it in a depressing slow form then thought I have to cheer myself up this is ridiculous I always know deep down I’m making things up in my head but it still doesn’t stop the what ifs. When I found a happy feel to the song it actually made me feel better so I’m hoping someone else can get through a day or a night feeling happier especially knowing they aren’t alone so many people go through days and nights like that.
TSWS: The song has some amazing pop overtones. Who are some of your biggest musical influences?
All of my life I’ve been a huge fan of Motown. Both my parents were in Motown tribute bands. However now I think my biggest music influence has been Jon Bellion. However the song Anxiety was heavily influenced by Jay Z and his song, Hard Knock Life. I loved how the kids sounded, although lyrically it’s about having it tough it still sounded bright.
TSWS: Can we expect a music video coming soon?
I’d love to do a video. The lyric video drops today. I have some great ideas for a music video however have not done one yet.
TSWS: Are you planning any tour or live shows?
I have my own residency now in the Virgin Hotel, Las Vegas. It’s a small lounge called the Shag room. A very chill vibe I love it. It’s the ideal place to be perfecting my craft at the same time as watching others enjoy themselves.
I also may have a tour in the fall, however not 100 percent confirmed at this time so make sure to keep and eye out.
TSWS: Who's in your headphones right now?
Jon Bellion and Lawrence the Band. I also love James Arthur.
TSWS: What kind of things inspire you to write songs?
Real life, I hope by writing I can make myself feel better about things that bother me. Even more so hope people can relate.
TSWS: What's coming next for you? Anything in the works even now?
I’m heading to Nashville for the first time next week. I’m very excited for that! I’ve recorded a couple of exciting Collaborations. I’m writing new music and also talking to some DJs about a summer song I wrote that I’m very excited about so hopefully that will come soon too.
TSWS: Before we go, what would you like to express to fans of the music?
A huge thank you to each and everyone please keep following so many exciting projects in the works.Love you all!
