Exploring Boundaries: An Interview with Nao Mali about his Multifaceted Artistry text Frank-Adam Hagman Nao Mali, originally from Wisconsin and raised in northern Sweden, effortlessly combines smooth R&B vocals with dynamic rap, crafting a unique pop sound. With impeccable style and a talent for imaginative songwriting, their artistic fusion mirrors a profound passion for both music and fashion. Beyond their musical accomplishments, Nao Mali is a highly sought-after stylist, making their mark in global fashion campaigns. Notably, they featured prominently on H&M’s Times Square Billboard, showcasing their influence and presence in the fashion and beauty world. In their latest single “FAG” Nao Mali boldly merges heavy metal guitars with a pulsating club beat, delivering explicit verses that challenge conservative detractors. The reappropriated chorus transforms a homophobic slur into an unexpected anthem: “I’m a fag / That’s a fact / I walk fast / Never look back.” This daring composition showcases Nao Mali’s fearless creativity. ”FAG” marks the start of Nao’s collaboration with creative director Martin Falck for the upcoming album, SCANDAL. The track also showcases Vixen, the shred queen and lead guitarist for Halsey and Rina Sawayama. This summer, Nao Mali captivated audiences on Sweden’s grandest stages during Daniela Rathana’s “School of Rathana” tour. Adding to their success, Nao delivered unforgettable solo performances to sold-out crowds at Stockholm Pride and the main stage of Copenhagen Pride. You went under different names earlier in your career, what about Nao Mali stuck?I decided on Nao Mali because it felt neutral and fresh to me. I needed a name that was fluid and gave me the opportunity to be whatever really. I played around with the letters in my last name Malinao, and that’s how came up with the name Nao Mali. How has fashion influenced your music?I have the most fun being an artist when I get to create looks for photoshoots and performances. So fashion is absolutely a big driving force for me making my music. You’ve been on tour with Daniela Rathana this summer, what was the best part of that experience?This was the first tour I’ve ever been on, so it was scary as shit not gonna lie. But of course, I couldn’t say no to singing backup for (with no exaggeration) the best singer and performer we have in Sweden. Getting to know Daniela, her band members, and the team has been so much fun. This has for sure been a life-changing summer for me. But the best part of this experience is obviously seeing Daniela excelling on stage, front row deluxe, hitting every note effortlessly. knit World of Kismetshirt Stylist’s Ownshirt around waist HOPEjeans & shoes EYTYSnecklace Acne Studiosearrings Arto You have earlier said that music for you is like a playground where you can create new worlds and discover new parts of yourself. What has Nao Mali taught you personally?That it’s okay not knowing fully who you are yet! Allow yourself to try different things out until something feels right. Favorite song lyric of yours?“I’m f*cking freaky funky, gender f*cking I create my own niche” from my song Pretty / Ugly has been the lyric that’s been stuck in my head since I wrote it, and has helped me to accept and embrace my weirdness. How do you feel the Internet has impacted the music business?I think it’s a bittersweet situation, especially TikTok blowing up. I believe it’s a blessing for many new artists to get discovered and all. But my passion is to create music and art, not to make TikTok videos. What advice do you have for young queer people starting to realize their creative potential?My advice would be to allow yourself to get inspired by other creatives without getting jealous or comparing yourself to them. What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?Trust the process. Cheesy question but I must ask – What is your dream collaboration?Robyn for sure! jacket Deadwoodtop EYTYSskirt Rave Reviewstockings Falkeshoes Acne Studiosjewelry Artofaux fur piece Tim Maksimovic top & jeans Stockholm Surfboard Clubjewelry Artotop two Anna Lastro knit World of Kismetshirt Stylist’s ownshirt around waist HOPEjeans & shoes EYTYSnecklace Acne Studiosearrings Arto wings & belt Stylist’s Owntrousers World of Kismetstockings Wolfordshoes Acne Studiosjewelry Arto jacket, necklace & charms on bag Stylist’s Owntop Stockholm Surfboard Clubskirt World of Kismetstockings Swedish Stockingsshoes EYTYSsunglasses Acne Studiosbag Little Liffnergloves Handsome Stockholmrings Artoown photography Sandra Myhrbergfashion Amy Tamakeup Alicia Hursthair Isabell Larssonnails Paloma Gonzalezassistant Filippa Finnpost production Rebecka Barlach
