【Interview】Ava Max: We Ain't Your Barbie Girls

Ava Max is on the road to superstardom.

She's been compared to Lady Gaga — in a good and bad way.She made waves as the female vocal featured in songs by bigwigs David Gutte and Jason Deluro.

But the 25-year old singer shows she can hold her own. Earlier this year, Ava's single〈Sweet But Psycho〉topped The UK Official Singles chart for four weeks in a row.

Speaking to KKBOX in Singapore, Ava talks about giving〈Barbie Girl〉a feminist update and gives us deets on the debut album we've all been waiting for.

Ava's Asymmetrical Hairdo

Ava's asymmetrical hairdo is a head turner. Sharing the significance of her signature style, she said: "Some people show their personality through outrageous eye makeup. I express my personality through my asymmetrical hair."

There's a deeper meaning behind the funky hairstyle, she adds."I want people to be able to embrace their true selves, regardless of whether people take to you or not. You can create your own style."

Spreading Positivity With〈So Am I〉

Ava's new single〈So Am I〉speaks to our inferior complex. The catchy dance puts us in a good mood, as well as encourages us to embrace our uniqueness.

Composing the song is Ava's way to spreading good vibes and affirming people living in a critical world dominated by social media. She said: "We're only human, we don't have the perfect physical appearance. We all have flaws. But that's what makes us special."

Ava launched the「So Am I Challenge」on social media. Mimicking Ava in the〈So Am I〉MV, netizens wrote the words「SO AM I」on their hands. She said: "The social media environment is unhealthy, it's an issue that needs to be highlighted. I want to use the chance to spread the message of love and inclusion."

Many of Ava's fans have shared how the song has given them hope during difficult times.

"It's really crucial to spread positivity. Everyone has moments when they are down, they need an uplifting song to lead them to the light. I hope this song will inspire my fans to love themselves, be proud of themselves."

Giving The 1990 Hit〈Barbie Girl〉A Feminist Update

"I loved the tune of〈Barbie Girl〉as a young girl," said Ava. "But when I grew up, I realised the lyrics weren't so appropriate. So I decided to make a song for my female fans, and tell them 'You ain't anyone's Barbie Girl'."

The 2018 single samples heavily from the 1990s Europop Hit, changing original lyrics「You can brush my hair / undress me everywhere」to 「You can't touch me there, you can't touch my body /Unless I say so, ain't your barbie」

"Perhaps some girls do not have a strong female role model. My song can be the one to empower them and spread the message."

Missing Family On The Road

Since〈Sweet But Psycho〉became a monster hit, she is making her global rounds to promote her music. Ava may lead an enviable jet setting lifestyle, but it's also hard to be away from home.

She said: "I'm really grateful to be travelling around the world to promote my music. Every day, I've been trying to adjust to life in a different city. But this is the first time I'm away from my family, so it's been really tough. I wish they would come along with me."

"My biggest dream is to support my family. Since they moved from Albania to America, they've been working really hard. I hope they can relax a little."

Debut Album Almost Ready To Go

We have good news and bad news. The good news: Ava's debut album is ready. The bad news: you have to wait.

But not for long, says Ava. "We are just waiting for the best time, the album is expected to be out in the second half of this year."

Giving fans a teaser, she reveals a few details about the album. It's going to be her alone on vocals, no featured artists. It's backed by powerhouse producers. It's going to be filled with trendy songs.

If you can't wait, here's more of Ava for you. She takes our rapid-fire Q&A challenge on KKBOX Singapore & Malaysia's officialInstagram.

Special Thanks To Warner Music

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