Shyli Madhala is an up and coming musician and singer-songwriter who has managed to reach some lofty heights with her music, despite the odds being against her at times. She released a single last year titled No Budget, featuring two tracks – Recall & End of the Month. I really enjoyed her music and wanted to share it with the world – you can check the songs out at the bottom of this interview if you missed them.
By Jane Howkins
How was your 2022?
2022 was a hell of a ride. It started with being diagnosed with a brain tumor and ended up on a very high note. I released 4 new singles this year and an awesome music video and started performing. I’m so thankful.
You recently released a single release titled No Budget, consisting of two songs – Recall and End of the Month. What can you tell us about the track?
No Budget is about money and working hard. I didn’t really have a budget to make these songs but I felt I had to. I think they complement each other beautifully and bring out the different ways I feel about it.
How has the reception to No Budget been so far, and where can the song be purchased?
Well, to be honest, it didn’t reach so many people because I didn’t have a budget for marketing. But whoever did get to hear it loved it.
You also released a song called Hysteria at the end of last year. What can you tell us about that track?
Hysteria for me is a song of empowerment. A song that moves you from the inside to trust yourself and your instincts. As a woman with endometriosis, I believe that my diseased genes go all the way back to the 19th century, when women were locked up and institutionalised for being women, and further back to the days when wise women were killed for being witches. I’ve learned to internalise this pain; this song is a reminder to set myself free.
Do you plan to release any more singles in the near future?
Definitely! I just went into crazy mode and wrote 8 new songs. I’ll be releasing a new song and a cool cover in the next two months. Many more to come.
Do you plan to release an EP or an album anytime soon?
I think I’m going to continue releasing singles for now.
Your solo music has an indie-folk sound. What/who influences you most as an artist? What have you been listening to recently?
I’m influenced by the likes of Otis Redding, Ray Charles, Peggy Lee, Janis Joplin, Alanis Morrisette, Louis Armstrong and many more. I’ve been listening to John Craigie and some classic 90s pop recently.
What do you think is the biggest challenge in the music business at the moment?
Making money. It’s just insane how much money artists invest in their art and how little they get. There has to be a change in the streaming service side of things.
Do you have any tour dates lined up for the UK?
Not yet but god I hope to! I’ll get on a plane right away
Any last words for the fans?
Thank you so much! I love and appreciate you to the moon! Please help me grow by following, subscribing and sharing my music. It means the world to me.