Mackenzie Sol on His New Single, ‘Can’t Sleep,’ and His Biggest Advice for Aspiring Musicians
English singer-songwriter Mackenzie Sol has known he's wanted to make music for as long as he can remember, and we've loved watching him make his dreams come true.
The artist been in the spotlight since he was a kid, and with his soulful pop sound, he's enchanted audiences—and earned more than 12.4 million followers on TikTok alone. Today, he released his latest single, "Can't Sleep," a powerful track inspired by the loss and pain that comes from being in a one-sided relationship. We just had to learn more about the song, and Mackenzie was kind enough to get us caught up in the interview below.
Sweety High: When did you discover your passion for singing? Was there any specific a-ha moment that made you realize it was the path for you?
Mackenzie Sol: I know everyone says it, but I really did sing before I talked. Both my parents were professional singers and I traveled with them as a baby. I auditioned for The X Factor at 4 and then recorded my first song with the X Factor cast. I'm not sure when I realized I was good, as I just didn't ever know anything but singing. I always wanted to be a singer!
(Image courtesy of Mackenzie Sol)
SH: What inspired your new song, "Can't Sleep"?
MS: My inspiration was actually my ex-girlfriend. We were still together at the time, but the relationship had become very one-sided and I could just tell I was losing her. We would argue and she'd fall asleep, and I'd be up all night it was like she didn't care anymore, which turned out to be true. We have now split up.
SH: Who are your biggest musical influences?
MS: Jon Bellion is my No. 1 right now. However, I grew up with soul music, so I'd say Stevie Wonder. I think my vocals are more soul and the music more pop.
SH: What's been your most memorable moment from performing live?
MS: I opened up for Jennifer Hudson, Babyface and Josh Groban at the Beverly Hilton Hotel. It was insane. I did once perform at my local arena back in England, and that was more personal having the people I live there.
(Image courtesy of Mackenzie Sol)
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SH: What's been your favorite fan reaction to your music?
MS: All fan reactions are amazing—I couldn't choose one. When you know your music has touched someone else, it's an amazing feeling.
SH: What song was the most difficult to write?
MS: All the songs I've written during and after my most recent relationship have been very emotional for me. I have really struggled mentally.
(Image courtesy of Mackenzie Sol)
SH: Do you have any pre-show rituals?
MS: Warm up is so important. And steaming my vocal cords."
SH: Who would you most like to collaborate with?
MS: Jon Bellion is the dream. The man is a genius
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SH: If you could play any venue in the world, what would it be?
MS: I live in Vegas, so Allegiant Stadium would be cool. However, Wembley is the dream for a British boy.
SH: Where do you see yourself musically in five years?
MS: Being a superstar is definitely my aim. However, any form of success would be satisfying. I love to write, so that's another thing I want to do more of—writing for others and helping others reach their goals, too.
(Image courtesy of Mackenzie Sol)
SH: Do you have any advice for aspiring musicians?
MS: Never give up. Believe in who you and keep working. You get out what you put in.
For more interviews with Mackenzie on his music, click HERE to get the inside scoop of his single "H8 December."