Some artists leave a legacy that stretches far beyond a great single or a number 1 album.
Artist Focus is a new series hosted by the extended Melodic Distraction family that deep dives into the life and times of the musicians that have defined the sound of modern music. From the stone cold classics to the unearthed gems and forgotten B-sides, our community tribute an hour of music by a single artist that has had a notable impact on their life.
For this edition of Artist Focus, Abbie Morris shines a light on the life of M.I.A. (Mathangi “Maya” Arulpragasm); the ground-breaking rapper, producer, filmmaker, model, designer and activist. One of the defining artists of the noughties, she has brought her own perspective to the forefront of her art since she first burst onto the scene with her DIY music complete with home-made cover art. Not only an incredible musical talent, she is a fascinating personality and has had a unique journey to where she is today and a somewhat unconventional approach as a modern day pop-star.
Over the past two decades she has remained admirably true to herself, with her art and activism always intertwined, having used her self-built platform to shine a light on political issues; never shying away from her vision – even in the face of backlash.