Living by Mae Graf

Over the past decade, the music industry has become an increasingly insular organism. On the one hand, platforms such as YouTube and TikTok are affording young artists a better and more legitimate chance at reaching wider audiences than ever before.

On the other hand, the sheer oversaturation of ‘content’ on those platforms and in the music business at large makes it incredibly difficult for new voices to cut through and make their mark.

As such, artists such as Taylor Swift, Olivia Rodrigo, Gracie Abrams, and Sabrina Carpenter have become outright monolithic in pop music at this time, all of whom have already broken into the industry professionally in one way or another. And while those artists are great, the industry must learn to embrace and nurture new voices and talents. In this way, the release of Mae Graf’s latest EP, Living, feels like a statement to the industry and audiences across the globe: Graf has arrived, and she intends to be here for years to come.

Mae Graf’s new EP, Living, was released on August 23, 2024. The 9-track EP sees Graf blending heartfelt lyrics with her dynamic vocal style, aiming for a collection of songs that can honestly and authentically engage with listeners’ emotions. Each track is distinctive in its fusion of narrative and musicality. It highlights Graf’s talent for establishing an intimate connection with her audience and gradually utilizing that connection to capitalize upon or subvert their expectations in thrilling ways.

From a tender age, Mae was enveloped in the world of music, thanks to a nanny who sang and wrote songs with her. As Mae continued to push the boundaries of her talent, attending vocal lessons and participating in school performances, her love for music grew exponentially. Now, at the age of fifteen, inspired by the icons of the music scene, Mae is infusing her unique perspective into the music she adores.

While artists like Gracie Abrams and Taylor Swift are primary inspirations for her songwriting, Mae’s raspy vocals and storytelling prowess evoke shades of Avril Lavigne and Phoebe Bridgers. This results in an indie-pop sound characterized by passionate melodies and introspective lyrics. As she continues to evolve creatively, Mae Graf remains unwaveringly dedicated to her craft and aims to leave an indelible mark on the music industry.

Living EP features Graf’s latest release, ‘What abt me?’ and a new take on ‘I Like Me Better This Way’, along with six new tracks offering a fresh perspective on alternative pop/rock.

Produced by Steel Records Studios and in collaboration with Kyle Roop and Leif Shively, Living sees Mae’s songs come together harmoniously. This EP is an emotional journey that culminates in a vibrant mix of youthful energy, introspection, and a meditation on the effects of personal growth and connection.

Known for her deep passion for music, Graf’s lyrics are steadfastly thoughtful and reflective. The young artist pours her heart into Living. With the EP, she aims to take listeners deep into the experiences of a free-spirited individual whose intense passion creates a rollercoaster of emotions.