Small Size | Big Talent
Let the school year and fall festivities begin! Kicking off Northrop’s fall music and concert series on the plaza is pop-funk artist Mayda Miller, a 4’10” artist who packs a big vocal punch. With her fierce style, reflected in both her vibrant appearance and undeniably fresh music, Mayda gives the best funkadelic performances in the Twin Cities. You might even recognize her as the bass player from this past Northrop Summer Music Festival’s Toki Wright concert!
Originally born in In Cheon City, South Korea, Mayda is a Korean-American who was adopted by a white St. Paul couple before her first birthday. During her childhood years her mother pushed her to pursue piano, and then in her junior high years she formed the teen-pop group the Sugar Divas, an all-girl quintet. Since then, she has ventured on a solo musical journey and made a place for herself as a standout in the industry as a solo artist with an expansive and evolving pop sound. Mayda capitalizes on her individuality and makes music that is honest, consuming, and personal.
While creating a niche for herself in an ocean of aspiring musicians, her mission as an artist is to embrace her whole self:
“Throughout my life I have never felt that I have truly belonged to anything, family, friends, strangers, jobs, cultures, houses, cities… Finally, I have realized that the only place where I truly feel accepted and comfortable is the world of art. Music is where I can let go and not care about what others think. Even though, my artistry pushes me into the spotlight open for generalizations, stereotypes, and judgments, I do not care. Good, bad, or ugly, I welcome it.”
Some of Mayda’s songs have people comparing her to Prince, which could be attributed to working alongside former Prince drummer Michael Bland, who acts as producer and mentor to Mayda. Her music has also been featured both locally around Minneapolis as well as nationally in the U.S., featured on shows such as The Real World, Jersey Shore, and Good Morning America.
There is no denying that Mayda’s soulful-infused pop is unlike any other local artists. If you have never experienced one of her vibrant performances, don’t miss out on her free concert on Wednesday, September 4th around noontime. What better way to start of your school year with friends at a free afternoon concert on the Northrop Plaza?
See you there! #rockthemall13
Checkout Mayda’s music video of her upbeat hit “Panthers”
