Mahalia: The Not-So-Hidden Gem
Born in 1998, Mahalia Burkmar was on her way to stardom when she wrote her first song at the age of 8 and signed up with a major record label at the age of 13. Having already been nominated for the BRIT Awards, BBC Sound of 2019 Award and Metro Ones To Watch Award, this 21-year-old girl is definitely not your average girl.
Super cute, chatty and charming, Mahalia spent the last few years couch surfing at friends and family’s while she attended events and earned barely enough. Now, she is one of YouTube’s most viewed artists and has worked with big players like Rudimental, Burna Boy, Russ and Ella Mai.
On her way to release her newest album, Mahalia talks about taking inspiration from Eartha Kitt, singer and activist who is popular for saying, “A man comes into my life and I have to compromise? You must think about that one again.” Her own lyrics depict a woman who is powerful, comfortable in her own skin and aware of her rights. Her verse on topics like romance and love explores the modern millennial love and the high paced experience it is.
The 21-year-old is also not your typical skinny, straight haired idol. Showing off her curves and natural hair, Mahalia stays true to herself in her music videos and shows off her natural beauty as an expression of self love and self acceptance – which is perfectly in line with her music. Having also eschewed the traditional and mainstream form of promotions, Mahalia claimed that she prefers to sell who she is instead of forcing fans to buy her music first.
As a proud young black woman, she embraces life as it comes. In one of her popular Instagram posts, she posted her truth claiming how she wished to be an idol to young women around her by encouraging them to embrace their minds, hearts and life and realize that true power lies within.
Also claiming to be a “naturally… bigger chested girl” Mahalia is here to break beauty ideals and depictions in the world of music. She claimed she’s aware of the expectations of the human body and how it should be displayed, but in Simmer (ft. Burna Boy), she defies all odds by freestyling to the music and seemingly enjoying it. Looking absolutely free, empowered and happy, Mahalia’s “Simmer” is a stunning declaration of the dichotomies of modern love and sex.
Super cool, hip and bright eyed, Mahalia’s first album Love and Compromise is out since September 6th, 2019 and filled with brilliant tracks by this pioneering British R&B singer and other guest appearances, which explore the eccentricities of being young, reckless and in love.
