By: Staff
Lili Joy, a former contestant on NBC's The Voice Season 16, has just released her latest single, "Maya," an absolute gem you won't want to miss. We're thrilled to dive into this impressive track and share our thoughts on this rising artist's remarkable accomplishments. Lili has collaborated with an exceptional team of producers, including John Velasquez, known for his work with artists like Vacations and Zella Day, and Liv Painter, who has lent her talent to Beabadoobee and Travis Scott. Moreover, the track features the captivating saxophone work of Marta Tiesenga, who has performed with the acclaimed Durand Jones & The Indications. With such a talented crew behind her, it's no surprise that "Maya" is a true standout.
We were completely blown away when we first heard the song. This track seamlessly blends R&B, pop, and hip-hop elements, showcasing Lili's exceptional vocal abilities. Her delivery is nothing short of mesmerizing as she effortlessly navigates the track's swirling melodies, dancing between the highs and mids with a captivating flow that punches the beat with precision. It's the kind of performance that makes you want to get up and move, as it's nearly impossible to listen without feeling the urge to dance. The musical arrangement is equally impressive, with a beat that felt like it derived from the iconic "In the Air Tonight" by Phil Collins, but with a fresh, innovative twist that keeps the melody irresistibly catchy. The flow of the bass and beat combinations is both innovative and brilliant, and the addition of the horns adds a skin-tinglingly good touch to the overall sound. The production quality of "Maya" is truly exceptional, with a crisp and clear mix that allows each individual note and sound to shine. Every element is perfectly balanced, creating an immersive and captivating listening experience. You can focus on each individual component or take in the track as a whole, and it never fails to impress.
We highly recommend you check out Lili Joy's "Maya" on all major streaming platforms. Be sure to add it to your playlists, stream it on repeat, and share it with your friends – this hidden hit is simply too good to keep to yourself.
Wait, there's more!
We caught up with this exciting and emerging artist, for “The Cage” Music Blog, to talk about music and learn more about them.
Here’s how it went:
Lili Joy, can you walk us through your songwriting process and where the inspiration comes from for this latest project?
My songwriting process normally consists of me waking up at 1am in a cold sweat and grabbing my guitar to strum & hum whatever I’ve been reeling about, haha. Funny enough, this project kind of consisted of the opposite. Most of these songs were written in the best spirits, on a bright summer day. I really think the setting inspired the writing and sound of this project.
What was the most challenging part of bringing this project to life, from the initial idea to the final recording?
I think the most challenging part of bringing this project to life was taking the joy that was all around at the time of its conception and ensuring that it translated all the way through to the end– whether that meant production, mixing, or cover art! It was so, so important to make sure that feeling was translated.
Is any part of your music's message or your personal purpose you feel fans should know more about? If so, what is that element, and why is it so important to you?
I feel like the biggest purpose of “Maya” and all of these new songs that are coming is (as corny as it sounds) just to have fun. I came into this project knowing that all I wanted to do was make music for people to enjoy things to. In the end, I feel like that’s exactly what happened.
What has been the most motivating force in creating your music?
Observing the people I love most has literally been the single most motivating force in making music. They literally are the reason for everything, so this whole project is based around them and the beautiful qualities I’ve been able to witness and learn from them.
What part of the music-making process is the most stressful, ie the creation, the actual release date, etc?
OH my god, hands down, without a doubt, the worst part is the release rollout. Tiktok, Instagram, emails, texts, etc. It's a blessing but also so incredibly hard to not be glued to your phone 24/7 all throughout.
If there was one thing you could change about the music industry, what would it be?
I absolutely would love to make it an industry where we based things off of in-person interaction and live music, rather than online presence. I would also be thrilled to see streaming platforms pay their artists a livable wage, instead of seeing their CEO’s earn enough to be on their third vacation to the Maldives this year.
Where do you see your sound and artistry heading in the future? Are there any exciting new directions you're exploring?
Who KNOWS! I try to let the wind take me wherever it pleases, and I honestly never fully know what I’ll be making next! So just stay tuned (I guess haha).
Was there ever a time when you emotionally felt, “I can’t do this anymore”? Can you tell us why this happened and how you found the strength to continue?
Yes, without a doubt. Literally right before the release of my first album last summer I melted down and wanted to quit music completely. Truth be told, I do that all the time. Doing music sucks, but it’s also one of the most amazing things ever.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Wait your turn. You don’t know everything yet. You’re not old, you’re 17. You are very talented, don’t let anyone make you think otherwise.
How do you feel about social media?
Social media is a blessing and a curse. I have been able to reach so many new audiences with it, but it also is incredibly depressing in its essence. I wish I did not have to engage with it, but I am also grateful for the people I have met as a result.
End Interview
Check out this latest release and listen to more of Lili Joy on Spotify & YouTube.
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