Mystee has released her latest single, “Hard Candy“. Inspired by artists like Big Thief, Soccer Mommy, and Phoebe Bridgers, Mystee’s “hard candy” is a lively indie pop ode to yearning for an unrequited love with an injection of nostalgic grit.

“‘Hard Candy’ is a song about longing for someone you know you can’t have, someone you shouldn’t be thinking about,” says Mystee. “This is a song for anyone who’s alone on Valentine’s Day, anyone who’s ever had an ex move on before them or been in love with someone who doesn’t love them back.”

In this interview spotlight, I chat with Mystee about the release, dream collabs, musical memories and more.

Full Q&A along with links and music below.

What is your favorite song of all time?

Wow what a tough question! That answer is always changing. It would probably be a song by the Beatles (at the risk of being predictable) but for the life of me I couldn’t give you one specific song. 

What about “Hard Candy” makes you most proud? Was there a specific goal you were trying to accomplish with this release?

I would say I’m most proud that “hard candy” is the first song that was performed and recorded by my new full band. It’s a milestone for us as a new four-piece releasing this single together. 

What inspires you to create music? What motivates you to keep going? 

I keep making music because the music that lives inside of me needs to come out. It’s as simple as that. There have been many times I wanted to give up, but the songs need to be put out into the world because maybe they can help someone, so it’s my job to make sure that happens!

If you could collaborate with anyone – dead or alive, famous or unknown – who would it be and why?

Probably Paul McCartney. I love the Melodie’s he comes up with. They’re so effortlessly catchy and his lyrical ideas are so playful but also profound. I’d love to learn from the master and I think we’d also have a lot of fun!

What was the last song you listened to? Favorite all-time bands/artists?

I’ve been going back and listening to all the old Fall Out Boy albums actually. Those songs were my entire external world when I was like 12-14 and I’ve been listening to them to rediscover that part of myself before I was jaded by the real world. They definitely still hold up!

Where is the best place to find you and stay connected?

My primary social media is @mysteemusic on instagram. If you want to hear about upcoming shows/releases etc. that’s the place to do it!

I appreciate Your time. Want to say or plug any other projects before we part ways?

Thank you so much for your time too! This is my only current music project, although I am starting to make art for myself and other musicians if anyone is interested in collaborating in that way!