Skeletons typically stay in the closet, but MERLIN is unveiling them through music with a new EP, Dark Matter. Shedding light on inevitable darkness, Dark Matter represents healing and autonomy; by unearthing the ominous, she created a marvelous constellation that isn’t going anywhere.

In this interview spotlight, I chat with MERLIN about the latest music, adapting during a pandemic, technology and more.

Full Q&A along with links and music below.

Where are you from and how do You describe your style of music?

Tirana, Albania born and Boston, USA raised! I’ve lived in duality my whole life and most people can’t place me, I love it. I get some interesting answers on where people think I’m from! I’d describe my music as my diary in the form of pop with a sprinkle of my Albanian culture. Or Moody Pop for short! 

How did you get here? As in, what inspired or motivated you to take on this journey through music and the music biz?

I took a long and winding road but I’m exactly where I’m supposed to be! My first inspiration came from the artists my parents listened to like Tina Turner, and growing up I fell in love with artists like Beyonce and Rihanna. It’s always been a dream of mine and throughout school I took every chance to sing and act. I had scribbles of songs and poems in every notebook. I even got into competitions for callbacks at IMTA NY and loved the whole process. Being a first generation immigrant I made the choice to go to college, but after graduating I realized I couldn’t live with regrets and started my journey to this moment!

How does your latest project compare/contrast with your previous release(s)? Were you setting out to accomplish anything specific, follow a specific theme, or explore different styles of creation?

Both my Dark Matter EP and my earlier releases compare in content. I share my lessons and experiences. I’m still playing around with my sound and I’d love to create songs exploring different genres and styles that have influenced me. I love to experiment! My goal was to create a raw mood for this installment of an overarching project; Dark Matter is just part one. Writing and singing is my way to heal my past. As I keep exploring my voice, I’m excited to try new things and bring all the layers of myself to the surface to shine. But just like everything else there is duality, a yin and a yang.

Name the biggest challenge you faced as a creative during these unprecedented? How did you adapt? How have you kept the creative fires burning during all this?

The biggest challenge during this time was my mindset. It’s easy to get looped into negative cycles and stay there. While it’s important to allow space for all emotions and honor them, I needed to reframe and set boundaries for myself in order to keep momentum and motivation. I feel like ‘pivot’ was the word of 2020. I did a lot of internal work during this time that I feel like upgraded the way I write music and forced me to get creative in how to get visuals and promo out. I have some writing exercises and spiritual practices that helped me keep grounded and bring my visions to fruition. Everything pushed me out of my comfort zone which led to working with new artists and talented souls who I’m so grateful for!

What was the last song you listened to?

One Mississippi by Kane Brown

Which do you prefer? Vinyl? 8-tracks? Cassettes? CDs? MP3s? Streaming platforms?

I’d have to say I prefer streaming platforms as someone who loves a range of music. Plus anytime I’m driving it’s basically a car concert so I need my options to fit my mood! But vinyls have a special place in my heart. I love the way music sounds and I love the aesthetic. There’s a comfort in putting one on.

Where is the best place to connect with you and follow your journey?

The best place to reach me is on IG @ThisisMerlin13 – I’m always posting what I’m up to and if you pay attention, I drop hints on what I’m working on. My music, aesthetics and the way I live my life are intertwined. I’m just trying to do my best while best dressed! 

I really appreciate Your time. Anything else before we sign off?

Thank you so much for having me! It’s been a pleasure. Never forget your worth, set your boundaries and follow what excites you. Feel the fear and do it anyways! And as always, more music coming soon!