Check out our interview with rising UK R&B newcomer Wallis who just released her new single “Skin.”
Through her music, the outspoken artist has been covering themes of class and social inequality, feminism, girl-power as well as equal representation, and Wallis’ dynamic music proves her to be an exciting new name on the scene for listeners to dive in and discover.
Successfully immersing herself in London’s underground R&B community, and gaining recognition through plays from BBC Radio 1’s Huw Stephens and BBC Introducing, Wallis has captivated an expanding audience with her stunning vocal versatility. She has offered musical treasures like “Attitude,” featuring Tottenham rapper Dun D, the brooding “FYI,” and “Ain’t That Kinda Girl” – recently showcased in a spectacular performance on the Big Top Stage at the Isle of Wight Festival, where she opened for Flo and Example.
Follow Wallis @wallismcd
Hi Wallis, please tell us a little about you?
My real name is also Wallis! I was born in a small town in the north of the UK and I’m extremely proud of my roots. I’m an only child and I moved to London when I was 13 years old.
Describe your sound in 3 words?
My sound is strong, sassy and futuristic.
Who influences you and why did you choose to make music?
I have so many influences ranging from Amy Winehouse (RIP) to Lauryn Hill. I’ve always been surrounded by music, especially at home and at school. I’m always listening to things other people wrote and I thought ‘I can do this’ so I was given the opportunity and I ran with it.
Tell us about your new single “Skin?”
“Skin” is my 9th single and it’s definitely one for the ladies. It’s about having all your faculties in check and wanting a man to bring something new to the table. It’s very much like ‘right, cut the bollocks – I already have a great life, what can you do to add to it?’
What’s the story behind the song?
The story behind the song is all from personal experiences. I write from the heart because I want someone to hear my music and go ‘omfg I feeeeeel this girl’ and Skin is literally my own thoughts of my current dating situation. I’m tired of being someone’s shoulder to cry on, I want to cry on someone else’s shoulder for a change lol.
What is the most rewarding part of your work?
The most rewarding part of my work is having my friends listen to the song before I release it and seeing their reactions. They’ll always be so honest and real with me; I value their opinions a lot and (especially with Skin) hearing them say this is my best work yet is just sick.
What advice would you give to your younger self and why?
If I was to say anything to younger Wallis it would be go with your gut, it has NEVER been wrong and don’t be scared to do things to make you stand out. I always worry about doing something wrong and offending someone, it’s held me back a lot and caused so much unnecessary worry with my music. I would say fuck the lot of them and you do you.
What’s next for Wallis in the last months of 2023 and for 2024?
One word. Management! I’m so ready for the next steps now. I’m also working on my album and it’s set to release March next year which is exciting. I’m going to be doing a few shows too so Londoners keep an eye out!
What is your own definition of happiness?
Happiness is very internal to me. Don’t get me wrong, a lot of things can make me happy like my friends or family for example – however, it all stems from me and what I’m doing to enhance my life and make it better, so I can feel the emotion.
Best advice ever given?
This is a hard because I have been given amazing advice for all parts of life but because this is my music I’ll go with “fake it till you make it, but also work fucking hard”.
Where we can follow you?
All my platforms are @wallismcd
Book: Girl, Woman, Other (it made me SOB)
Quote: “Assumptions make an ass of you and me”
Movie: Burlesque
Tv series: Currently watching Married at First Sight UK.
Food: Sushiiiiii
Travel destination: Anywhere in Italy ????
Sports team: I don’t have one but I play in a netball league and we’re called the Hackney Sorts so I’ll go with that haha
Photos: Philip Baro Thomas @ejiropbt
