FRESH off his free mini-concert at The Exchange TRX last Sunday, UK singer-songwriter Henry Moodie is still riding the wave from the overwhelming response to his first performance in Malaysia.
The 20-year-old was in town recently as part of his visit to South East Asia and the Drunk Text singer sits down for an exclusive interview with TVS.
Read on for his Malaysian experience, music journey and anticipated return in July!
The Malaysian experience
Moodie – who rose to prominence on TikTok – said that he did not expect such a huge turnout to his event despite knowing that Malaysia ranks as one of his top Spotify listeners.
“Everyone here has been so nice, the service and reception at the show yesterday…everyone was so lovely. I’m really happy to come here because people show me so much support.
“I kind of knew Malaysia was one of my top countries, but seeing all these people in person, it’s so surreal,” he said.
“I kind of knew Malaysia was one of my top (Spotify listeners) countries, but seeing all these people in person, it’s so surreal.”
He added that the response in Southeast Asia was a stark contrast to his life back home.
“Back in England where I spend most of my time, I definitely can go out and do anything because I’m not that big in the UK.
“I didn’t have that ‘fame’ experience there but coming here is a different experience, it’s like a double life and I love it.
“I came from the other side of the world from a little village with a lowkey life back home but coming out here, I feel like a male Hannah Montana in a way,” Moodie said jokingly.
From cover singer to singer-songwriter
Moodie shares his journey into making personal music with honesty and passion. He shares that while covering songs is fun, singing his original songs is more personal.
“Writing my own music has always been a dream,” he explains.
“It’s like therapy for me.”
Henry’s words highlight the emotional connection he feels to his original songs, showing how music has become a powerful way for him to express himself and find inner peace.”
Inspiration behind “beat up car” and upcoming album
Moodie’s latest single, a self-reflection on love amidst life’s changes and uncertainties, left fans eager to know the inspiration behind it.
“I wanted to transport listeners into a cinematic moment, envisioning running away with the love of your life,” he shares.
With anticipation building for his upcoming album, Moodie hints at a deeply personal journey through his music:
“These songs are some of the most intimate I’ve ever written,” he reveals, “exploring themes I’ve never touched upon before, delving into the complexities of life and adolescence.”
“I always start with a concept,” explains Moodie.
“Then, I move onto a melody, then the chords, the guitar, the piano… before building the song around that. Sometimes I write the song with the producer or by myself before bringing it to the studio.”
Revealing the creative process behind Drunk Text, he says:
“With Drunk Text, I wrote the chorus in my bedroom before bringing it to the studio… then I tend to change the lyrics and melodies because I’m a perfectionist,” he smirks.
Personal favourite song
During the interview, Moodie candidly shares his personal favourite track, pick up the phone, revealing its significance during his darkest moments.
“I’ve always grappled with anxiety, and music has been my lifeline through tough times.
“For me, pick up the phone truly encapsulates the struggles with mental health and anxiety,” he confides.
Expressing hope for the song to offer solace to others, he adds it would serve as a “beacon of comfort” to others.
In offering advice to those navigating mental health challenges, Moodie’s words echo empathy and resilience.
“Hold tight. Sometimes, adversity strengthens us. Keep pushing forward; you’ll emerge stronger,” he added.
On future collaborations, Moodie dreams of working with Taylor Swift and Conan Gray.
“I’m a huge Swiftie,” he beams, “and collaborating with her would be a dream come true,” he said.
“Hold tight. Sometimes, adversity strengthens us. Keep pushing forward; you’ll emerge stronger.”
Future Festival in Malaysia?
Teasing a potential return to Malaysia, Henry explains that he will be performing in a music festival in July.
“I can’t say what it is yet, but I’ll be back! Soon, very soon.”
With the announcement of the Good Vibes Festival setlist, he will be one of the confirmed performers at the annual music festival.
Will you ‘pick up the phone’ to catch his performance? -TVS
