Before we wrap up 2024, The Noize Team would like to introduce everyone to FIG, a Malaysian indie pop musician who has migrated to New York and has released an amazing album that will help you relax and kick off the new year of 2025 with a bang.
FIG has also opened for grentperez, a musician interviewed by The Noize Magazine earlier in 2024 and who performed for Grant on his US tour in late 2023.
Without further ado, let’s get to know FIG better and floating away with her songs to finish the year!
TNM: For any readers who don’t know you just yet, can you tell us a little bit about yourself and your music style?
FIG: Hi my name is FIG! I’m a Malaysian indie pop and R&B artist based in NYC who loves corn and making music that feels perfect for frolicking in a field.
TNM: How did you start your career? And which music genre makes you YOU?
FIG: I got into music by writing over lo-fi study beats in high school, then started creating my songs and videos in college. I discovered indie pop music and fell in love which inspired me to begin making similar music. After that, I just kept going, leading to where I am today! I would say the genre that makes me ME is indie pop mixed with indie R&B!
TNM: After your debut album ‘BUD’ (2022) and ‘FITS’ is out now. What makes this album different from previous ones?
FIG: When I first started releasing music, I had no idea what I was doing, so seeing my growth over the years has been amazing, especially with releasing this new project. In FITS I explore new topics that I never have written about before, and continue to find myself as an artist in this project.
TNM: Where did the inspiration come from, and how long did it take to put this album together? Is it inspired by a particular experience?
FIG: This project took around a year and a half to make, where the main inspiration is diving deep into the emotional arc of friendships and relationships, capturing both their beautiful beginnings and sometimes their inevitable endings. I usually find inspiration in everyday experiences or stories I hear or read. I’m most drawn to writing about everyday, mundane stories—like biking the same street daily or finding joy in a favorite snack. I love exploring how these simple moments can be special and appreciating the beauty in the ordinary.
TNM: If you had to pick one, which track from the album is your favorite and why?
FIG: Right now my favorite track from the project is Solo Dates! That song truly embodies me as a person as I am someone who loves going on adventures and spending time with myself. It is a song that feels authentically FIG and a lot of people related to it and even felt inspired to go on solo dates themselves!
TNM: Being an Asian artist who is now based in the USA, how did it feel? Has your music been received as well as you expected or is there any challenge you want to overcome?
FIG: It is super cool to be an Asian artist in the US! The biggest challenge was finding a community. Even though NYC is so full of people, it can feel lonely. Community is essential, especially with people going through similar experiences. I started hosting my own music and food events called Cob Stand, which helped me not only find my own community but also create a space for others to connect.
TNM: Do you ever get over the artistic block? And how did you manage it?
FIG: I definitely get artist blocks from time to time and it can be quite frustrating. I used to be afraid of sharing ideas when I didn’t think they were amazing which caused me to have a mental block and doubt myself. However, when creating songs with my collaborators, I let as many ideas flow as possible—good or bad—and later picked out the gems. This process has made creating much more freeing and enjoyable
TNM: So far, what is the best advice you have received this year?
FIG: One of the best advice I have been given is to make stuff even if it’s bad!
TNM: Which artists are you listening to right now?
FIG: Currently listening to Orion Sun, Amine and Amie Blu recently!
TNM: If you could choose one artist for your next collaboration, who would you choose? (anyone, alive or dead artist)
FIG: A dream collaboration for me would be with Orion Sun, an indie R&B artist I’ve admired for a long time. She does things so effortlessly and you can’t help but smile when listening to her music. She’s been a major inspiration, and seeing her live recently reminded me why I fell in love with her music. I’d love to work with her someday!
TNM: Lastly, do you have anything to say with Thai fans? And what do you expect to see, try, and eat when you visit Thailand?
FIG: Hello everyone from Thailand! I hope you take a listen to my new Project FITS and treat yourself to a nice Solo Date! I have visited Thailand once! I went to Bangkok and it was so fun with absolutely amazing food and I hope to come back soon.
Stream FIG’s ‘FITS’ here: https://untitled.stream/library/project/zCbmnsHJlJEg0NVWHavmg
Thank you, Secret Signals, for this special opportunity.
Photo Credit : Michael Stocke