Tag: Mali Hayes

Each week we will be posting exclusive 60 second interviews with our 2018 Festival bands and artists. This week we are in conversation with Mali Hayes, to find out when Mali is playing mjf 2018 click here. 

Name: Mali Hayes

Name of the Band (if you’re in a band): Mali Hayes

Where are you/the band from? Manchester

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How did you get into music?

Both sides of my family are musical. My mum is a producer and live sound engineer, my dad is a singer, my grandparents were classical composers… the list goes on!

Why did you form the band?

I wanted to start going to gigs as soon as I’d left uni. I’d joined a band and met a bunch of great musicians who I really got along with, friendship wise and vibe wise. I asked them to also be part of my band and they did and it all came from there really! We’ve condensed it down from being like a 10 piece to a 4 piece now, and when possible, I sometimes get guitars and bv’s involved again.

What are the most enjoyable aspects of being a musician? 

Being able to perform your art to crowds of lovely people. And them relating to it. And them thanking you. And them communicating and reacting with you! It’s such a wonderful thing!

What is the least enjoyable part of being a musician?

3am drive back from gigs.

Who is your favourite band or artist?

That is the hardest question ever to answer! But right now, I’d have to say IAMDDB.

What’s the best piece of musical advice you’ve ever been given?

“Keep doing what you’re doing”. Simple, but very effective!

What does it mean to you to play at manchester jazz festival?

It’s a real honour to be playing at mjf again. I’ve grown up with friends and family buzzing about the festival, so to be able to play the festival, and headline this time, is a real special moment for me!

What advice would you give to the new generation of musicians that would like to follow in your steps?

I’d tell them to simply do it for love of it. Be true to you and I’d also say, no one cares about you more than yourself. Be prepared to be 10 people in 1!

What has been the most notable highlight of your career so far?

Playing at the Jazz Café, London and the crowd cheering for more! I’ll never forget that night.

Other than yourself, who are you looking forward to seeing at mjf 2018?

Binker & Moses, for sure!

Would you like to add anything?

We’ll be playing in Croatia twice this year (Soundwave and Outlook!) Definitely come down and catch some vibes with us – I actually have some discounted tickets as I’m a performing artist for the festival so get in touch via any of my social platforms for more info!

For the full Festival Programme click here.