We recently featured Malissa Whitehouse’s new single ‘Dear Diary’ which released on 7th March 2022. We have also had the privilege to speak with Malissa about her career, past and present.
How did you get started, and what has led up to where you are today as an artist?
My first break was at 16 years old when I was a finalist for Songwriter of The Year in conjunction with Capital Radio London and Coca-Cola.
This led to a debut on Channel 4’s ‘The Word’ after I was invited on to the show by the executive producer to do an access all areas live performance with my band and be interviewed by Katie Puckrik.
Who do you feel has influenced your sound the most?
Growing up in the 80’s I was a massive fan of Madonna. When I saw her live at The Palladium in London and I was simply blown away. A huge inspiration. In lockdown I listened through my old album collection of favourite female artists such as ‘Madonna’, ‘Kate Bush’, ‘Dido’, ‘Janet Jackson’, ‘Diana Ross’ & ‘Sade’ to name but a few.
These listening sessions really inspired me so I decided to finally set up my own home studio. I have found some of my recent works are very influenced by the 80’s and 90’s. I love radio friendly pop tracks with great hooks and melodies.
What has been your biggest challenge and what do you feel you have learned from it?
I think tenacity has been the key for me. If I stopped after all the ‘No’s’ I’ve had I would never have made it in this industry. It’s hard as knock backs are challenging for anybody but I’ve always managed to turn a negative in to a positive and always gone back even when doors have closed.
I also feel that if those answers had been ‘Yes’ at the time, then the timing wouldn’t have been right. It’s only when you look back at situations that you realise you have to learn your skill. Working in so many areas of the industry has helped me to progress to the artist I am today.
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
My signing to Peer Publishing was a fabulous moment for me. To know that my work was being taken seriously as a songwriter and also the opportunity that I have managed to create with my TV writing.
Pre lock-down I filmed my first TV pilot with an array of celebrities which landed me a production development deal for my first TV show. This has been a labour of love but hoping that things will blossom over the coming months with recent developments.
Tell us about your latest project, what have you got going on at the moment?
‘Dear Diary’ is a beautiful pop ballad which is released on 7th March. I’m currently doing a full world-wide radio promo for the track and have had an amazing response with airplay so far.
What advice would you give to anyone new coming into the industry?
Just because someone gives you their advice, it doesn’t always mean it is the right advice! Surround yourself with positive like-minded people that you can connect with and have freedom with your music expression.
Many times I have been guided down the wrong roads and ended up going full circle. That still happens today but sometimes its a progression of the project and how things develop.
As I’ve got wiser with knowledge I think going with your gut reaction is key. Always stick to your guns.
How can fans find you?
You can find me on my Twitter platform @malissawhiteho1 or over on my website http://malissawhitehouse.com/