Indie pop and alternative R&B artist Maeta experiences personal growth as she conquered a lot of issues, like toxic relationships, and her own confidence.
These trials and tribulations in Maeta life have allowed her to use these life experiences in her music. Because of Maeta’s experiences, she sounds more comfortable and self-assured. The Knockturnal spoke with Maeta about new music and life experiences as a young adult.
The Knockturnal: Recently, you released your new single and music video for the song “Toxic?” Where did you receive your inspiration for the song and how did you come up with the title?
Maeta: Toxic was inspired by a “situationship” that I was in that lasted about 2 years, starting when I was 18. I was in this relationship that just tossed me around and ripped the life out of me, but I learned a whole lot and have since gained new love and knowledge of myself. This song lays out the relationship, including the side of the other person. It’s like a back and forth conversation of us trying to figure out what the hell this is and what we want.
The Knockturnal: I know you’ve conquered a lot of issues such as toxic relationships and self-confidence. What would you tell someone who is having a difficult time leaving a toxic relationship? What has the healing process been like for you?
Maeta: I would say just rip off the Band-Aid and leave. It’s hard because things will feel like they’re getting better, then something bad will happen, you’ll be hurt for a while, and the cycle will repeat. It’s hard to accept that something is never going to change, but once you do and leave, you’ll regain your power and freedom. You’re going to feel so so so much better once you get through that really dark part.
The Knockturnal: Have your life experiences as a young adult help better your music and performance?
Maeta: Yes of course. When I first put music out, I hadn’t really gone through anything, and I wasn’t as connected to my music. It felt very empty to me. This next project I’m about to put out is filled with the deepest and darkest emotions I’ve ever gone through, and I think you can feel that in the songs and in my performance. There is a lot of passion and depth to it.
The Knockturnal: On lead single “Teen Scene,” produced by Kaytranada (Rihanna, Anderson .Paak, Alicia Keys, Kendrick Lamar), featuring rapper Buddy, please explain the process of creating this single and why saying goodbye to a juvenile relationship led to a sense of closure and curiosity?
Maeta: “Teen Scene” is inspired by me leaving home at 18 to pursue music. I left everything I knew behind and moved to LA where I knew no one. “Teen Scene” represents the life I left, my friends and lovers, and the carelessness that I had to let go of. The song took a few months to come together because every piece happened one at a time, but we all worked really hard and I’m very proud of that song.
The Knockturnal: Where can people find your music?
Maeta: Everywhere! Apple Music, Spotify, Amazon Music, YouTube – just type in Maeta and things will come up. You can follow me on Instagram for behind-the-scenes moments at @MaetasWorld
The Knockturnal: What’s next for your musical career?
Maeta: Of course my next project, Habits, which will be out April 30th. Then a tour when the world opens up again (which I think we’re getting closer to), a lot of performances, all that jazz. I’m excited!!!
