Raised in Memphis, Tennessee, Mexx Heart discovered her passion for music at a young age. When she was a child, her father would blast his favorites through the radio, heavily influencing her eclectic musical tastes. Inspired by artists like Green Day, Billy Idol and Van Halen, Heart has cultivated her own unique sound.
In the spring of 2020, Mexx released her first single entitled “Roses.” She released her following singles, “Comatose” and “Skipping Stones,” that September. In February 2021, she released a cover of Green Day’s “American Idiot.” She released her acoustic single “Another Chance” on May 30, 2022, and she plans to release a full album in early 2023, featuring a new sound influenced by Taylor Swift (“Folklore” and “Evermore”), The Band Camino and Drew Erwin.
In November of 2022, Mexx released her highly popular single “Pretend,” which showcased the softer side of her artistry. The single currently has over 20K streams on Spotify, with that number growing each day. She released “London” in January of 2023, followed by “Nothing From Nothing” on February 28, 2023.
Mexx continues to leave her mark on the music industry, showcasing her skills both behind the mic and in the studio. Heart was nominated for a coveted Josie Music Award in 2021 and attended the 2022 Grammy Awards with producer Justine Blazer. She had the honor of performing at Barry Manilow’s Grammy afterparty as well, which took place at his luxury penthouse.
What first got you into music?
I was really young when I first got into music. But, I have to give credit to my dad. He shaped my music taste and love of music, to begin with. Artists like Van Halen, Green Day and Billy Idol are some of the bands he’d play on the radio. Even though it’s not my current style, those artists still inspire me.
How would you describe the music that you typically create?
“The 1975 meets Taylor Swift” is what I usually tell people.
What is your creative process like?
Feelings will usually spark up the inspiration. “No Pressure” was written after some time in therapy, and I was processing how much in relationships I really take responsibility for; including my partner’s emotions. Then it’s usually in my producer’s hands. I’ll ask her to tune something different or to change the piano bits here and there but she for the most part nails it all the time. Then, we record in her studio, she does a good quick mix and sends me the stems when I’m ready. I’ll typically do a mix and send it for approval before mastering.
With the pandemic, how have you found a way to get your music and your message out there?
I have a really good publicist who shares similar values with me. I’ve not only found a way to reach a very niche audience thanks to her, but I’ve only expanded since and met so many amazing people because of her.
What is one message you would give to your fans?
Treat everyone how you want to be treated, regardless of political affiliation, gender, race, or religion (especially)
What would you be doing right now if it weren’t for your music career?
Working towards building myself in the hospitality industry. I’ve been a server/bartender for years and I love interacting with people.
In your opinion, how do artists in this industry stay on top of the game when faced with so much competition? What’s the secret to making yourself noticed?
There’s always a new trend to hop on. I feel like with younger artists they always create new ways and new paths for fast consumption. TikTok is one of those. So many amazing artists blossomed quickly on that platform and people’s dreams of recognition come true. It’s kind of incredible. I wouldn’t say that there’s a secret since there isn’t a once size fits all formula for getting noticed. I would say to Just keep going and don’t give up. Go out to events and meetups and expand your circle! Be active and proactive in your communities so people know who you are. The most unique thing about you is what people will pick up on most.
If you were to write an autobiography, what would the title be?
Working titles are “From Mess to Messier,” “My Truth” or “Sex, Drugs, and Depression”
What would be a good theme song for your life?
“Shit Show” by Z Smith
Who would you want to play you in a movie of your life?
My baby sister – I feel like she’d nail it.
What’s your least favorite personality trait you like about yourself?
My self-awareness. It’s combined with an ego that think because I know the root of the problem then I’ll be fine, but I’m not. Knowing what the problem is isn’t the magical tool to fix the problem; I work on myself in therapy to actually get those tools to fix my problems
If you were talking to a younger version of you, what advice would you give yourself?
One would be to not sell herself short, especially at such a young age. Life sucked so much as a teen and my attitude only made it worse. Two would be to not do stuff just because someone else thinks I should. Stick to what I like and I’ll be happier.
Mexx recently released her much-anticipated debut album, Paper Houses.
A paper house is a metaphor, often used when discussing the future with your significant other. It is a symbol of love, hope, and commitment. Paper houses are fragile, yet strong, and can withstand the test of time if built on a solid foundation. Mexx Heart uses this analogy in her debut album to tell the story of her first engagement.
Track Listing:
1. Dreamcatcher
2. No Pressure
3. Debutante Balls
4. Winter
5. Nothing From Nothing
6. London
7. Pretend
8. It’s All Over
You can connect with Mexx on Instagram