In the universe of Brazilian music, few names evoke as much affection and admiration as Mallu Magalhães. With a career that began early, marked by authenticity and an unmistakable voice, Mallu has built an artistic path where lightness coexists with depth.

In this conversation, we talk about how music has always been present in her life, the details of her creative process, the passions that drive her, and how Portugal has become an essential part of her artistic journey. From projects that fill her with pride to advice for those just starting out, this interview reveals the most intimate and inspiring side of an artist who enchants us both on and off the stage.

Has music always been a part of your life? When did you know it was your dream to pursue?

Yes… music has always been natural to me, I have always noticed rhythm in everything around me, I imagined melodies and rhymes in my mind and found complete relief in listening to songs. Listening to and making music has always been at the core of my personality - it is my nature. I feel that I have always done it more out of necessity than a dream. In fact, I never dreamed of being known, celebrated or famous - but I felt a kind of connection with a greater cause and force when I came across the impact that my music has on people - knowing that my music can do good or bring relief, company and hope to other people just as it has brought to me is my greatest motivation.

What can you tell us about your creative process?

Each song has a path, a story and a way of emerging; there are songs that appear almost ready in my head, a catchy rhyme or an interesting melodic line, and then the rest comes like a waterfall, all at once but, generally, an idea, a motif, a small melodic passage that carries a concept emerges, and then there is a long process of refining and working on the form, harmony and lyrics, which requires full concentration and a deep dive into that universe within that song.

What inspires you most in your day-to-day life?

Songs sometimes come to me autonomously, while I'm driving or walking, in internal conversations and imagination, or when I play an instrument - but I end up using music for many different reasons. Sometimes it's for leisure, sometimes it's to process a feeling, to say something that I can't say with words or even to order. When someone asks me for a song I also feel very inspired, I like to imagine what that artist would say, dream, or feel.

What are you most passionate about in your work?

Feeling the energy of connection with my existence through inspiration, and giving back to the world in the form of song, like someone who plants a tree or gives a gift. I also really like this trance I experience on stage, where I feel liberated and completely surrendered, connecting with the audience. These are very strong and special energies.

What part of your job makes you feel the happiest?

I think knowing that I did good to someone, that I brought hope, a hug, a laugh, something good to someone.

What project are you most proud of and why?

It's hard to choose just one! I'm very proud of everything I've seen because I've always done my best and learned a lot. I've been really dedicated to GranGran Records, my label, and I'm very proud to be able to work with artists I love, and to be learning so much about the practical world of running a company - which is very challenging for me.

How has Portugal influenced your work?

In Portugal I had many opportunities. First, I had a calm and peaceful life, walking a lot, cooking, seeing beautiful landscapes and meeting affectionate people. I made many friends and was able to dedicate myself to my composition. Setting up our own studio (me and Marcelo) was also important, because it allowed me to work with time and precision on my musicality, as well as to work on other projects. Artistically, I think I learned a lot from Portuguese music both before and now, from the way artists use the Portuguese language in their lyrics.

Do you have any exciting projects or releases planned for the near future? What can you tell us about them?

Since I've been dedicating a lot of time to composing and to GranGran, I spent some time without thinking about a new album or tour. But now I'm missing it and I'm going to start working on a new album, so I think there will be excitement soon (:

What advice would you give to young women who are taking their first steps in the world of music?

In my experience, it has always been more productive to be happy and healthy among people I identify with, who I feel good about, and who I feel like cares about me. I have often sought the courage within myself to do something that was asked of me, and I thought I should overcome my weaknesses and move forward. But over time I have realized that there are times when we must have the courage to say no. Meditating in the morning about my real goals in life has helped me make decisions and suffer less along the way - I say this from the height of my ignorance haha.

How did your path cross with MESH?

I discovered Mesh through a friend (Carlota) and fell in love with the intensity and depth of the concepts present in the details, resulting in a harmonious and delicate result. I feel that the pieces give a sense of confidence and strength, while also conveying sensitivity and authenticity.

Do you have a favorite piece of MESH jewelry?

I really like the knots collection, the Vine and Fleur rings, and the Bagel hoops.

If you could create a piece of jewelry for yourself, what would it be?

Perhaps it would incorporate animals, numbers or flowers, in a less figurative and more symbolic way - I find it interesting when jewelry carries a kind of story or dream, almost like amulets.

Fire Questions

Favorite occupation: being with my daughter

A ritual before going on stage: I open my hands and give thanks for being alive and being able to live this moment

An artist I would like to work with: Herbert Vianna

An artist we should pay attention to: Maria Luisa Capela

A song you listen to on loop : Spanish Boots of Spanish Leather, Bob Dylan

A place you always come back to: the beach

A dream come true: raising goats in a self-sufficient house with a vegetable garden and orchard near the sea (specific).

Your idea of ​​happiness: my daughter smiling