From the heart of Denmark to the shores of Corsica, Malu Pierini has been crafting a musical identity that defies borders and embraces her multifaceted heritage. With roots deeply entwined in her Danish-Corsican background, Malu’s music reflects the duality of her upbringing—quiet introspection meets vivid, soulful storytelling. Her sound blends alternative pop and soul with cinematic undertones, reflecting as much about personal growth as it is about connecting with the universal experiences of love, longing, and identity.
In this exclusive interview InMusic, Malu opens up about the pivotal moments that have shaped her career, from reclaiming her identity by adding her last name to her stage persona to releasing her deeply personal single, “Souvenir.” The song is a heartfelt reflection on her time in Paris, capturing the bittersweet ache of finding oneself while carrying the weight of what’s been left behind. It’s a theme that resonates throughout Malu’s evolving discography, from earlier tracks like “Small Talk” and “Comfort Zone” to the upcoming stories waiting to be unveiled in her debut album, set for release in 2025.
Read on to find out more about Malu Pierini’s inspirations, creative process, and what fans can expect next in her journey.
Where are you from?
I’m from Denmark, but my background has always been a mix of influences. My family is Danish-Corsican, so I grew up with this blend of cultures that really shaped me. Though I’ve spent most of my life in Copenhagen, I’ve always felt like I belong to more than one place at the same time, and that’s something I think about a lot when I write songs.
How would you describe your music?
I’d say it’s like reading pages from a diary, but with a cinematic soundtrack. My music blends my Danish upbringing with my French/Corsican heritage. It’s honest and emotional, sometimes messy—but in a way that I hope feels real.
What would you say has been the most defining moment of your journey so far?
Deciding to change my artist name to include my last name was huge for me. It was about claiming my full story and saying, “This is who I am.” It pushed me to write more openly than ever before. And honestly, releasing “Souvenir” feels like another big moment—it’s the first step into this new chapter.
Can you tell us about your new single “Souvenir”?
It’s a really personal one. I wrote it about being on exchange in Paris, navigating all these big feelings—like guilt for not missing home as much as I thought I would, but also the joy of finding myself in a new place. It’s about that tension between wanting to stay and feeling the pull to go back.
What is the meaning behind this song?
It’s about those bittersweet moments of growth. When you’re out in the world, experiencing something amazing, but there’s also this little ache for the people or places you’ve left behind. It’s kind of like carrying a little piece of each experience with you—your own personal souvenirs.
Your singles like “Small Talk” and “Comfort Zone” have already gained international attention. How does it feel to see your music connecting with listeners beyond Denmark?
It’s incredibly humbling and rewarding. I write these songs in such a personal headspace, so seeing people from other countries connect with them—it’s just such a reminder that we all share these universal feelings. It makes the world feel a little smaller in the best way.
You’ve mentioned reconnecting with your roots for this new era of your music. How has your Danish-Corsican heritage influenced the sound and storytelling in your songs?
A lot! There’s this duality in my life that keeps showing up in my music—the quiet, introspective side that I think comes from Denmark, and the vivid storytelling and warmth that I associate with Corsica. This new era is about weaving those together and really owning both parts of myself.
Your upcoming debut album is set for 2025. What can fans expect from this project?
For my debut album in 2025, fans can expect a blend of bossa nova rhythms, the sound of autumn in Paris, and the warmth of Corsican beaches. It’s a journey through personal stories, with influences from my family’s village and my grandfather’s cabaret in Paris. Each track creates a world of nostalgia, growth, and connection, drawing from both my roots and my experiences.
What is a message you would like to give through your music and why?
The biggest message is that it’s okay to embrace complexity—whether it’s in relationships, identity, or emotions. Life is rarely black and white, and my music celebrates those in-between spaces where growth and self-discovery happen.
Is there anything else you’d like people to know?
Just that I’m incredibly grateful for everyone who’s been part of this journey so far. And if you find yourself in Copenhagen and want to hear some of these new songs live before they’re officially released, grab a ticket for my headline show at Hotel Cecil on February 21, 2025. It’ll be an evening of storytelling, music, and connection—I can’t wait to share it with you!
Listen to Malu Pierini’s new single “Souvenir” on our Spotify playlist:
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