Interview: Ivy Mairi Shares The Story Behind New EP "Polarity"

Ivy Mairi is a singer who has been involved in the Toronto music community and releasing records for a decade. Ivy is also known for her extensive work as a backup singer at home and on tour with bands such as Bruce Peninsula, the Weather Station, Rene LaVice, and, most recently, DIANA.

Recently, we had the opportunity to chat with Ivy about her latest EP release, following her passion, and her biggest influences.

Thanks for chatting with Music Update Central! What's the story behind your recent EP Polarity? Polarity is a collection of songs I wrote over the last two years. My producer Kieran Adams was pivotal in creating the beautiful sounds on this EP. The songs explore the extremes of growing up - the highs and lows of love and loss. These extremes are present in the lyrics, but also in the range of styles from one song to the next.  

When did you know you wanted to be a musician? I have been making music with my family since I was very young, so I don't remember making a conscious choice to be a musician. But I really started to identify as a musician when I began writing songs in high school and performing live. It was at that point that people started thinking of me as a musician, and that I started to think of it as a core part of who I was.

What can fans expect in the future? More shows to play the songs off Polarity! And new songs coming too - when you are putting out new music there is so much time and energy that goes into the business side of things. I am craving a good, productive songwriting period.

Who are your influences? I love a pretty wide range of music. Two pop artists that I listened to a lot while working on Polarity are Charli XCX and Blood Orange. But I also listen to a lot of singer songwriters, instrumental ambient music, and hip hop. I'm also very influenced by my peers and community here in Toronto. There is so much good music being made in this place.

Follow along on Ivvy Mairi's journey by visiting facebook.com/ivymairi, instagram.com/ivymairi, and twitter.com/ivymairi.