Savai’i girl to release first album

By Vatapuia Maiava 20 October 2016, 12:00AM

There are so many things that can be achieved through music; many inspire, others tear down but for a New Zealand born, Savaii girl, she has chosen to tell stories through her music.

Entering the world’s biggest and fastest growing industry is no easy feat and Malene Asuael, who hails from the villages of Ma’asina, Fagaloa and Safotu, Savaii, understands that perfectly.

But that won’t stop her from chasing her dream.

The singer/songwriter who is currently based in Brisbane, Australia, is set to release her first album called ‘Story Time’ in two weeks’ time.

According to Malene, her talent in singing came from her parents.

“Both of my parents taught me how to sing,” she told the Samoa Observer.

“My father Nelesoni Leausa is from Ma’asina Fagaloa and my mother Niatautava Tapusoa is from Safotu, Savaii.

“Songwriting was just a hobby at first until I realized that people all over the world were enjoying my tunes on YouTube. Still I wasn’t too serious about it but then I could feel myself getting unhappy while working at a steady 9 to 5 job.

“I was working to build someone else’s dream and not my own. The only thing I was passionate about was writing songs that told stories.”

Asked what influences her music, Malene replied.

“My father passed away in 2012 and he was a man that worked all his life making sure his children got the best out of life,” she said.

“My dad loved to sing and was always proud when he would watch me and my siblings perform. His goal was to one day record an album so I feel like I am somehow fulfilling not only my dream but also his. 

“What keeps me motivated is being able to give my mother everything she deserves.”

Malene explained her first album as full of stories catering to the many different emotions of her listeners.

“The Album ‘Story Time’ is filled with stories from not only my life but also the lives of those who surround me,” she said.

“There are a lot of stories about friendships, heartbreak, addiction, rebellion and love. For example my first single ‘If Only’ is about a friend of mine who experienced meeting a boy she thought was just perfect but realized they didn’t exchange contact details.

“So she’s thinking “If Only, I had a chance to write your number on the palm of my hand.” Everyone would be able to relate to one or two songs on the album.”

But this will just be the start of Malene’s career as she paves herself a path to greatness through her tunes.

“My plan is to continue to work on my craft and write more music that people all over the globe can relate to,” she said.

“I hope to be able to have the opportunity to reach audiences all over the world. I am already working on my second album. I am currently casting for my next Music Video, ‘Lovin Green’ taken from my album.”

“I felt like I was self sabotaging my own album. I was afraid I would fail. I had to tell myself constantly every day that I can do it “The world needs your music”.”

And with every ounce of success Malene meets, there are always those in the background helping and supporting her all the way.

“There are so many people who helped with this album such as my family and friends for their amazing stories and ongoing support,” she said.

“A huge thank you Fidatrix for producing the album and Nomad the Producer for producing “If Only”. Also Frank Godoy who has helped me with not only my Music Video but also my Album Cover. I am working with some of the most talented people in the country.”

To get a sneak peek into some of Malene’s talent-filled songs, you can find her on her YouTube channel ‘Leausa Vlogs’.

By Vatapuia Maiava 20 October 2016, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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