Originally written at a faster tempo, “Dance” was slowed down to underscore the emotional weight of the lyrics—a shift that also revealed its need for additional dimension.
With honesty and insight, Jimmy Mallia reflects on the highs, the hurdles, and the heart behind the hits.
MusicsWeek: What inspired you to start making music, and what keeps you passionate about it?
Jimmy Mallia: I have been writing songs for over 16 years. At the age of 60, a year ago, I decided to release one in the hopes people would relate to my songs. I feel it is never too late to give your dreams a shot. My hope is my songs will touch others.
MusicsWeek: Can you tell us about your latest project or album? What was the creative process like for this one?
Jimmy Mallia: My latest release is about one of my daughters. I would sing “The Dance” by Garth Brooks to her every night before bedtime. She was getting married so I wrote this song for her wedding. Every father has to let go of their children at some point and let them have their own dance.
MusicsWeek: How do you balance your creative vision with the demands of the music industry?
Jimmy Mallia: I simply try to stay true to my style of music and songwriting. I focus on my songwriting and style and not to conform to what is necessarily popular. If people relate to my songs, I have accomplished what I set out to do.
MusicsWeek: Who are some of your biggest influences, and how do they impact your music?
Jimmy Mallia: My first influence was the nun who taught me to play guitar. I have also been fortunate to have some incredible teachers when I was young who taught me self confidence and believe in myself. I was taught to be myself and chase my dreams, at any age. Of course they artist that have a major influence on my music. Johny Cash, Dolly Pardon, Randy Travis, Jim Croce, Willie Nelson, John Prime to name a few.
MusicsWeek: What's the most important message or theme you want your music to convey to your audience?
Jimmy Mallia: These are my life experiences. I hope others can share my feelings and relate. If they can feel the joy, sadness, whatever the song’s feeling is, I have done what I set out to do.
MusicsWeek: Can you walk us through your songwriting process? Do you have any specific rituals or habits that help you get started?
Jimmy Mallia: All my songs start with the lyrics. A thought, or idea, I put to paper. I write the lyrics down, which usually just flows. Then comes the melody of the songs, the feeling. I then work with my partner to set the chords down. It is the same process for me for every song.
MusicsWeek: How do you approach collaborations or working with other artists? What do you look for in a collaborator?
Jimmy Mallia: I do the vocals for all my songs and guitar. However, I bring other artist for the other instruments. It is important to me that the instruments bring out the feeling of the song. Therefore, I have partnered with various musicians over the course of my releases. With “Dance” I had Keli Jones, an incredible singer, to add harmony to the song. She added so much depth to the song.
MusicsWeek: How has your music evolved over time, and what do you think are some of the most significant changes you've made?
Jimmy Mallia: My style has stayed pretty much the same. However, I think I have improved as a lyricist and added depth to my lyrics.
MusicsWeek: What's been your favorite experience or moment in your career so far?
Jimmy Mallia: The popularity of my first release shocked me and encouraged me to continue. Hitting 100,000 subscribers on YouTube was incredibly flattering. However, it is when I get feedback from someone who listened and was touched that keeps me doing this.
MusicsWeek: What's next for you – are there any new projects or tours on the horizon?
Jimmy Mallia: My next goal is to do live performances and get out of my comfort zone.
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