From Memphis, Tennessee, the rising r&b sensation, singer-songwriter, and recording artist Maia recently released her sultry and velvet-smooth single entitled "Undress."
Known as the city's hidden gem, Maia is often characterized as being the most electric introvert one will ever meet. A true hopeless romantic, Maia went on to graduate from Middle TN State Univesity studying Commercial Songwriting, which helped kickstart her career's takeoff in 2019.
Recently teaming with r&b singer-songwriter Andriana for their heartfelt release, "Undress," Maia and Andriana offer the utmost passion and love as they serenade us with their serene vocal stylings overtop of a smooth r&b atmosphere. Not to mention their cohesive and complementary vocals, both artists share their natural talent as they pour their calming performances over our ears.
Hitting play on "Undress," we're met with a plucky electric guitar and angelic vocal harmonies that drop into a melodic keyboard melody and Maia's bright vocal appearance. As she begins to delve into her heartfelt and sensual lyrical theme, her beautiful harmonies take us by surprise as they flow into the groovy and sultry hook.
While Maia and Andriana team up to serenade us on the hook, the song's downtempo drum breaks and thumping bassline continue to back up the vocalists as they wear their hearts on their sleeves. We adore Andriana's shimmering vocal stylings that sweeten the song's atmosphere alongside Maia's lead vocal, as both artists bring incredible talent and charisma to swoon any listener who graces this delicate and magnetic piece.
We admire the passion and tranquility you've delivered with your latest single, "Undress." What inspired you to create this sultry and heartfelt piece?
I had watched the movie Hidden Figures a few days before and I was inspired to write a little poem. From my poem, I wanted to use the phrase “hidden figures in your heart” as a symbol for the things we keep to ourselves by often hiding from them. I wanted to challenge listeners’ resistance against demasking by providing a safe space for them to take a few steps towards vulnerability.
What gravitated you to the stylings of Andriana to feature on your single, "Undress"? Why did you choose her soothing vocals to accompany you on this track?
The idea came from Patti Labelle’s “If You Only Knew.” Its emotional driving force was the perfect example of how I wanted “Undress” to make people feel. Choosing Andrianna was actually my producer’s idea, and he hit it right on the nail. Her feature was the most anticipated piece of the puzzle because it was the last piece added. It was a challenge trying to figure out how to make the interpolation seamlessly blend with the other elements of the song, but we did it!
Who produced the sultry and groovy r&b sonics for "Undress"? What sort of atmosphere or vibe were you aiming to achieve with this single?
“Undress” was executively produced by Brian Nathan and co-produced by Noah “inoahcreation” Ploderer. We studied Queen Naija’s “Pack Lite” and Erykah Badu’s “Bag Lady” for the new school and old school blend. Galimatias' “South” inspired the live guitarist and bassist. I usually make an entire playlist for my producer(s) to reference. I wanted everything to be smooth and groovy with a sprinkle of funk. Do you know the type of vibe that makes you two-step and imagine yourself skating in your favorite roller rink or the type of vibe that brings all the lovers together? Yeah, that one.
What impact did you want to make on the listener with the release of "Undress"? How did you want this song to make your listeners feel?
“Keep them coming back for more” is the phrase I hear when I think about my supporters. I am building a relationship with them. The goal is to give them something they desire so they desire more. I am speaking to their hearts, minds, bodies, and souls. I am leaving them with an experience because when you enjoy an experience you want to tell others about it and relive it again and again.
What's next for you?
I’m going to keep showing up and showing out. More content is on the way. Stay tuned!