In Need of Attention: an Interview with the Singer Miss Madeline

21-year old New York native Miss Madeline’s newest single “Attention”, produced by founder of Shifted Recording, Mike Irish (KIRBY, Silver Sphere, prettyboyshav, Daydream Masi, marcos g) and Juju Merk, is lyrically and visually driven by themes of vanity, sexual manipulation, materialism, and dominance. With her unapologetic confidence, she isn’t afraid to rebel against projected ideas of innocent femininity and explore her sexuality in her music and image.

[UNPUBLISHED:] Tell us about your new single “Attention” and the inspiration behind it.

[MISS MADELINE:] I wrote this song last year when I was living in Berlin. I was definitely inspired by the music I was surrounded by like techno and house and wanted to make a super fun club track. Sadly, we can’t dance to it at the club right now, but we can still sing into the hairbrush in front of the mirror lol. I think a lot of people can relate to the concept of the song, even if we don’t want to admit it. I think everyone deserves a self-indulgent moment - confidence is sexy. I was definitely feeling myself when I wrote this song, and I want the same for my listeners.

[UNPUBLISHED:] How would you describe your music and how does it relate to your identity as an artist?

[MISS MADELINE:] I would describe my music as fun, cool, hot, sexy, fabulous, confident and wild, just like myself.

[UNPUBLISHED:] Who are your main musical influences and how do they influence your art?

[MISS MADELINE:] I have so many! Of course, Britney Spears is my god lol. “Hit Me Baby One More Time” was the first CD I ever bought, and I haven't let go of my popstar dream ever since, so I do consider her to be a pillar in my artistic journey. I’ve always been a fan of Lil Kim and her confident lyrics. Obviously Gaga!

[UNPUBLISHED:] What sets you apart as an artist?

[MISS MADELINE:] I grew up working in the entertainment industry, so I know what it means to be disciplined and determined. 

[UNPUBLISHED:] How has growing up in New York City influenced your music and style?

[MISS MADELINE:] I think I grew up fast, and I'm ok with that. Being around NYC has definitely influenced my straight-forwardness, which I think is reflected in my music. NYC is super inspired in general, and being here has helped me push myself creatively and gives me the opportunity to collaborate and meet other dope artists. So yeah, I would attribute my confidence and style to that.

[UNPUBLISHED:] How do you deal with the judgment that comes with being an authentic artist, breaking down projected ideas and stereotypes of femininity?

 [MISS MADELINE:] So much of my persona and artistry is really about putting myself out there and being extra af, and that gets tough sometimes. I feel like I get put in a box sometimes, because of the type of music I make and the image I portray. So many music bros write me off as girl music and physically cringe at my confident, bold lyrics. I understand my presence is threatening. If it's not your thing that's fine, but I deserve as much or more credit than all the lame indie boys y'all gas up. It's like, it's cool to be sexy... until I open my mouth lol. Of course, I get nervous or feel insecure sometimes, but I know I just need to stay focused on what I want to create, and not how others might react.

[UNPUBLISHED:] What are your ambitions as an artist for the next few years? What can we expect from you?

 [MISS MADELINE:] Omg everything and anything! I’m so excited for this next chapter. I just want to keep doing what I love, creating, collaborating, performing... and we'll see where that takes me next, maybe pop stardom?

[UNPUBLISHED:] Your style and confidence are inspiring. What would you say to young female artists seeking to pursue a creative career?

[MISS MADELINE:] Thank you so much! I would say to give yourself the credit you deserve, and always stand up for yourself. Fight for what is yours.

You can stream “Attention” out now.

https://open.spotify.com/track/6x5zCLhkGtvlYfv4IPLubr?si=xcWZg7zaRlSOVAfU69mFYQ