Originally from Leicester, singer-songwriter and musician Mahalia has been breaking musical moulds since her 2019 debut album, Love and Composure. Featuring renowned collaborators such as Burna Boy and Ella Mai, the project combined elements of soul, contemporary R&B, and 70s for a heartfelt and captivating offering. Critically acclaimed, it set the bar high for the artist’s music to come. But her sophomore album might just have it beat.
Sharing stories from her young adulthood and the journey she’s taken to get to where she is today, IRL is equal parts an emotional and empowering reflection and a celebration. Featuring the likes of JoJo and Stormzy, it is undoubtedly the Mahalia we have come to know and love, yet a completely fresh progression from her previous work. Speaking on the project, she shares, “This is a real reflection of the journeys I’ve had, what actually happened and a celebration of everyone who got me there. There are names and family members I mention because it all helped in shaping who I am. I’m so proud of this project, and so proud of how much I challenged myself to just let those stories out.”
On the day of Mahalia’s highly anticipated sold-out show at London’s Eventim Apollo, the artist gave us an exclusive look into her exciting adventure. From performing to the sold-out crowd to being joined by Stormzy and Jojo, the images truly capture the energy and spirit of her music.
Take a look…
