Carolyn Malachi is a mix engineer, producer, Grammy-nominated artist, and educator. Carolyn believes that the ideas of independent musicians, filmmakers, and other creatives should be taken seriously and handled with great care. Carolyn teaches audio production courses in the Cathy Hughes School of Communications at Howard University where her research explores the intersection of blockchain technology and data sonification. Carolyn holds an MA in Audio Technology from American University.
At what moment did you fall in love with music? Do you remember where you were when you first discovered your gift?
I know music as my first and now primary form of unguarded self expression. Because it’s been so critical to my existence, I only know life through the lens of my love for music.
Think back over your career, is there one person or thing that you would tribute your success to?
There’s a plethora of superlative artists, producers, and engineers – folks whose work represents excellence. If anything, I’m always striving to write, arrange, perform, produce, and mix to my best abilities, keeping their high standards of excellence in mind.
If you could use five words to describe your music, what would they be?
Lived, Patient, Lawless, Colorful, Deep
You have released several albums since launching your career years ago, what message remains true in each of your songs?
In a word, “better”, is a resounding theme. I’m always attempting to get better, to do better, to be better, to give better, etc.
Tell us about your upcoming album releasing June 22nd, what do you hope women takeaway from this project?
I want you to feel connected, understood, and accepted. I want you to know that you’re not alone in your lived experience, but your lived experience makes you unique and uniquely qualified to create the life you desire.
What was the creative process like, did you experience any roadblocks during the process?
The creative process was / is an exercise in trial and error. Roadblocks served the creative process by redirecting to better ideas, ideas that served the songs. I remain grateful for those experiences.
Where do you hope to see your work in the next 3-5 years?
In the span of 3 – 5 years, I hope this music pops up on your playlist and makes you remember your strength. Remember what you had to overcome and celebrate yourself.
What is your definition of a Pretty Woman Who Hustles?
Find the nearest mirror. Now look at it. You’ll see my definition staring back at you.
Twitter: @carolyn_malachi
Instagram: @carolynmalachi
