If the blistering weather has deterred you from leaving your house and you are looking to find shelter in the comfort of your homes, we have the perfect track to accompany your pending evening in, Maya Lane’s “Still The Same”. With enchanting vocals akin to Kacey Musgraves and HAIM featuring, and the gentle strum of the guitar proving Maya to be a multi-facet worthy of the name, it becomes clear that the artist’s debut single is only a brief introduction to what is sure to be a decorated career.
“After the pandemic putting everything on hold, it’s so great to finally release music and be able to share with everyone what I’ve been working on over the last couple of years,” explains Maya when questioned about the release. “I wrote “Still The Same” with Jonathan Quarmby just after the first lockdown in 2020. I went in with this story of a breakup and using the idea that everything has changed around you, but you are the same person at heart.”
Upon the debut of “Still The Same” and its accompanying music video, the London-based vocalist got candid with Wonderland about all things music. Head below to enjoy our interview with Maya Lane…
Hey, how are you?
I’m really good, thanks. I’m super excited about the release!
Let’s start by going back in time, when did you first learn how to play the guitar?
When I was little, I always wanted to play the guitar. I remember getting a tennis racket for my fourth birthday. I unwrapped it, clutched it to my chest and declared, ‘I love it so much’. I then flipped it around and started playing it like a guitar. I think at this point my parents realised that I wasn’t going to be a tennis player and I started guitar lessons at the age of 7. However, my hands were so small I couldn’t actually play anything properly until I was around 12!
Your debut single “Still The Same” is out today, what does this song mean to you, being your first release?
After the pandemic putting everything on hold, it’s so great to finally release music and be able to share with everyone what I’ve been working on over the last couple of years. I wrote “Still The Same” with Jonathan Quarmby just after the first lockdown in 2020. I went in with this story of a breakup and using the idea that everything has changed around you, but you are the same person at heart.
Having grown up in London, how have your surroundings and upbringing contributed to your music?
I feel very lucky that I have grown up in a diverse and multicultural place, with so many different types of music. One of the amazing things about London is having the opportunity to see so many gigs on your doorstep, which I absolutely love.
How would you describe your sound to someone who hasn’t listened to your music before?
I would say my sound is pop with country and folk influences. I grew up listening to a lot of 70s folk and country music. I take inspiration from the effortless melodies of Joni Mitchell and the storytelling lyrics of people like Bob Dylan.
How would you say you have been able to get your sound out there in building up to the release of your single?
Thankfully with more gigs happening and everything opening up, I’ve been able to play my music to some great crowds. It’s so nice to see people’s live reactions to your songs. I’ve also been teasing lots of clips and original music on social media, which is such a great way to connect with people all around the world.
If you could name three other artists who have inspired you (dead or alive), who would they be?
It would have to be Fleetwood Mac, Joni Mitchell and Kacey Musgraves.
What is your favourite cover that you have done so far?
I love covering “The Chain” by Fleetwood Mac. It’s such a timeless song that everybody knows, it always gets the crowd going, and I love to put my own spin on it.
Looking ahead, what are you most looking forward to in 2022?
There are so many things I’m looking forward to this year. I can’t wait to continue to release more music and have people connect to it. I’m also really looking forward to playing more live shows and hopefully seeing people singing my lyrics.