Matty Marz, the rising New York-based electro-pop artist, is set to make a bold statement with the release of her highly anticipated debut album, “m.w.u”. As part of a new generation of young trans women pushing the boundaries of contemporary pop, Matty Marz brings an innovative sound and authentic lyricism to the forefront. Through this project, she invites listeners to follow her into uncharted territory, exploring deep emotional connections and embracing self-acceptance.
“m.w.u” is a vibrant sonic adventure, bursting with infectious melodies, pulsating electronica, and intricate pop arrangements. However, beneath the album’s energetic surface, lies a profound meditation on the dualities of life—light and dark, joy and sorrow, growth and loss. Matty describes the project as a reflection of these emotional contrasts, with each track weaving a narrative deeply connected to the human experience, making it not just a collection of songs, but a journey of introspection.
In this interview, Matty shared how “m.w.u” symbolizes her personal journey of self-acceptance as a trans woman. The album reflects both her artistic and emotional evolution, blending her personal experiences with avant-garde musical production. Matty hopes “m.w.u” will inspire others to embrace each moment, live in the present, and find strength in their identity. Looking ahead, she is gearing up for a dynamic tour to connect with her fans, promising that the best is yet to come.
How would you describe the emotional and artistic journey that led you to create “m.w.u”?
Looking back, m.w.u started as a way for me to push myself as a songwriter and producer. While I didn’t realize it initially, this project actually became a crucial part of my journey to embracing my identity as a trans woman. This album gave me the freedom to experiment with new sounds, writing styles, and perspectives, and through that, I found my true voice. Emotionally, this album is a tapestry of loss and loneliness, but it’s also infused with a sense of euphoria and hope, all wrapped in the pulse of dance music.
You’ve described the album as a “profound meditation on life’s dualities.” Can you discuss some of the specific dualities that you explore throughout the songs?
To me, the two tracks that really capture this duality are the opener and title track, “m.w.u,” and the closing track, “Sing Me To Sleep.” Both songs blend melancholic production with a high-energy build that crescendos into a euphoric release, creating a powerful contrast between sorrow and exhilaration. Lyrically, “m.w.u” and “Sing Me To Sleep” navigate complex emotions like loss and loneliness. “m.w.u” grapples with the question of “where/how do I belong in the world?,” and “Sing Me to Sleep” reflects on isolation and suicidal thoughts. Despite their heavy themes, both tracks ultimately resolve with positive answers about self-love and living in the moment. The album reflects the idea that life’s best and most profound moments often intertwine with solitude and reflection, making the journey toward joy and self-discovery all the more meaningful.
You’ve mentioned that “m.w.u” also represents your personal journey of discovering and embracing your identity as a trans woman. How has your identity influenced the creation of this album, and how is this reflected in your lyrics?
I look at this project as the “Aha!” moment in my life. There are lyrics in some of these songs that insinuate that something was brewing deep inside me all along. The most obvious homage to my trans identity is in the song “Ain’t Sorry,” when I ferociously yell, “All the dolls, in the whip ain’t tardy,” meaning no party is a party until the GIRLS arrive. However, there are also moments of sadness and confusion reflected in the album. Like, in the song “Sing Me to Sleep,” I sing, “‘cause if I don’t then I’m worried I’ll do something I’ll regret,” which was about how unhappy and suicidal I felt before I discovered my true self. One can even argue that “EPILL” was some sort of precursor to my life on estrogen! I already know my next album will have to be my “girlhood” album, which excites me to no end!
What do you hope listeners take away from “m.w.u” in terms of gaining a better understanding of the trans experience?
I honestly hope that this project is able to resonate with a variety of people from a whole range of different backgrounds. I’ve always known that I want to be a one-of-a-kind artist and this feels like the first time I’ve made something that truly speaks to my perspective and identity. That being said, the themes on the album all stem from very universal and human emotions, ones we all deal with in some way, shape, or form at different points in our lives. Basically, I hope that listeners are able to understand that transness is deeply human and extremely beautiful.
Which are the most personal or vulnerable lyrics on the album, and why did you choose to share them with your listeners?
“Sing Me to Sleep” is definitely my most personal and vulnerable song on the album. Not only is it one of my most sonically experimental songs, but it’s also by far my most honest song lyrically. I remember lying on the floor in my apartment in LA and contemplating self-harm. The first verse and chorus just poured out of me while I was lying there. When I first made it, I wasn’t sure it was something I’d ever share with anyone else, but it really came to define the m.w.u album as a whole. This song is truly so layered — it’s a somber ballad, but it’s also an ode to love being the driving force in life. It’s such a special song to me. It’s the epitome of the album and it’s also a song I created entirely by myself.
What advice would you give to other trans women who are aspiring musicians?
My advice would be to create your own space in the music industry. This journey is already challenging, and being trans adds its own complexities, but it’s important to remember that your voice matters. We’re starting to see incredible strides in pop music, and it’s clear that transness is part of the next wave of pop. I’m deeply inspired by the remarkable trans artists that are paving the way and I only hope to join that group, in my own unique way. Keep going, and remember, you are SO important. Love you!
Do you have any life mantra that you tell yourself during tough or challenging times? Can you share it with us?
I have a few mantras but the one that has stuck with me is “Namu Myōhō Renge Kyō,” which is a phrase from Buddhism. It’s about embracing and manifesting your highest self. I learned about it from one of my idols, Tina Turner, who often talked about its transformative powers. Basically, in layman’s terms, I equate it to, “I think, I am, I embody.”
Now that you’ve released your debut album, what are your plans for the future? Can you give us a hint about what’s next for Matty Marz?
Right now, I’m all about connecting with my fans and gearing up to eventually tour. As for what’s next, let’s just say I’m already starting to piece together my next project and trust me, the best has yet to come. After that? Headlining Madison Square Garden and world domination 😉 <3.
Photos by Carina Allen
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