Artist Spotlight: Meet mulahbae
Can you tell us about the inspiration behind "HATE TO HATE ME" and the story it tells?
As tragic as it may sound, my home country was at war, and my escape was music - as it always is. I knew I was coming out with an album in 2025, and I had the title, tracklist and aesthetic laid down, but one main thing was missing - the music. I released the lead single "153" for my upcoming album back in March, on the 15th. Followed by this absolute dramatic burst of emotions, “HATE TO HATE ME” is a narrative about a toxic, on-again, off-again relationship where both parties are struggling with personal issues and emotional baggage. I felt trapped in a cycle of needing validation while dealing with a partner who both, loves and resents me. Despite moments of clarity and self-awareness, I was emotionally torn, trying to balance self-worth with the pull of the relationship’s emotional chaos. Ultimately, there’s a sense of resignation — we both knew we should let go, but the complexity of our feelings made it hard. Undertones of manipulation, letting go and acceptance yet holding on wrap around this power pop ballad if you may call it that, and makes it a great second single from my second studio album MYTHOMANIA.
How did you approach the arrangement and composition of the music for this song?
It was really easy and quick. I knew the direction the track was going to take and I've been really inspired by Nessa Barrett's album AFTERCARE which is mainly alt-dark pop. The process went between me and my producer Jad Kas, back to back phonecalls, endless demos and several lyrical variations. Distortions, drama and punchy yet airy vocals were the main focus of our moodboard.
What impact do you hope "HATE TO HATE ME" will have on your audience?
When I released "HATE TO HATE ME" I truly had zero expectations. I wasn't awaiting crazy feedback or devoted die hard fans towards the track - but essentially that's what happened. I woke up 12 hours after the release was live to seven playlists, me being on the cover of one of them and endless love from the audience. It's definitely experimental in the sense of a classic dark power ballad. The production is elevated and the lyrics resonated with so many people, which warms my heart. Nothing beats strangers chanting your lyrics and relating to your own experiences. Luckily I've achieved that sense of bond and connection through several releases, mainly "153" and "HATE TO HATE ME", due to lyrical authenticity.
How did you first become interested in music, and when did you start playing your instrument or singing?
My father was a singer back in his early days, and I've always had a deep connection towards music. I feel tunes, melodies and songs on a personal level that almost cringes out the people around me. I was four years old when I first performed live, it was at a school gig on stage. Don't recall much besides my mom leaving the theater with absolute tears running down her cheeks due to pride.
I've written several tracks in the past with no deep meaning, awful melodies and really bland concepts just to dive into the world of music and songwriting. Mind you I was very young (around 10), so it was a major effort at the time.
How do you balance the pursuit of artistic integrity with commercial considerations, if at all?
I try my best to take into consideration what the general public/mainstream commercial audience likes to consume, sonically. but I always end up doing what I think would last for decades without sounding dated. If anything I'd rather be slept on and misunderstood/ahead of my time instead of releasing something that'll age terribly and carry no replay value in six months after release.