New Hampshire’s Malachi Gagnon has taken the music world by storm, amassing over 5 million streams on Spotify and gaining a dedicated fanbase of 24,000 monthly listeners. At just 16 years old, he’s already established a unique sound that blends Americana with country music. His recent release, “Think About Me,” has resonated with many, showcasing his ability to capture universal feelings through his songwriting. Now, Gagnon shifts focus to his latest single, “Reason to Live,” a deeply personal track that aims to inspire hope and solidarity. We sat down with him to discuss his musical journey.
Malachi describes “Think About Me” as a song rooted in the relatable and universal feeling of wondering about an ex. Growing up in a small town, he often found himself revisiting places that reminded him of people he no longer saw, which sparked questions like, “Are they thinking about me? Do they miss me, or have they moved on?” This was not inspired by a specific breakup but rather a shared experience many can relate to. Malachi sat down one day, locked himself in his room, and began writing the song. The process was quick initially, though he admits the lyrics evolved as the song developed. “An artist’s work is really never finished. You just run out of time to keep growing it,” he reflects, emphasizing the organic way his music takes shape over time.
When asked if he’d ever want the superpower to read someone’s thoughts—particularly those of an ex—Malachi candidly admits that he would. “That could go really well or really poorly,” he says. “It could either really build me up or tear me down completely. But what’s the point of life if not having fun?” His openness and willingness to explore both the highs and lows of emotions make his songs relatable to listeners of all ages.
Discovering His Passion for Songwriting
Malachi’s journey into songwriting began early. He remembers penning his first song around the age of 10 or 11, well before he picked up a guitar. The song was about a rollerskating arena, inspired by a fleeting encounter with someone he met while on vacation. Reflecting on this moment, he explains how even then, he was drawn to the idea of longing and the poignancy of short-lived experiences. From that point, songwriting became an outlet for his creativity and emotions.
Over the years, Malachi has grown as a songwriter, learning to be more open and vulnerable. “I’ve learned to be more open about how I feel in certain situations,” he says, noting that songwriting has become almost therapeutic for him. “It’s like having a journal or diary where I can vent. My guitar—or my notes app—knows more about me than most people do.” This transparency has become a hallmark of his music, allowing listeners to connect with his songs on a deeply personal level.
A Tribute to a Friend: “Reason to Live”
Malachi’s latest single, “Reason to Live,” marks a significant moment in his musical career. Written in honor of a close friend he lost to suicide, the song emerged from a place of deep grief and vulnerability. I wrote this song in one night and posted it on social media,” says Gagnon in a press release. “I knew these words could impact people, and it would almost be selfish to not give that to the people who need to hear them.”
“Reason to Live” is more than just a tribute; it’s a message of hope. By sharing his experience and the emotions tied to it, Malachi hopes to reach out to people struggling with their own battles, reminding them that they are not alone. Its release during Suicide Awareness Month is particularly meaningful, aligning his personal story with a broader message of solidarity and support for those facing similar situations.
Balancing Music and Life
Balancing high school with a burgeoning music career is no easy task. As a senior, Malachi has found that maintaining a clear separation between his academic and artistic pursuits is essential for his well-being. While he admits the demands can be overwhelming at times, he remains committed to fulfilling his responsibilities in both areas.
Malachi’s family has been a constant source of support throughout his journey. Their unwavering encouragement, which began when they first heard him sing at a family talent show in 2020, has been invaluable. His brother, in particular, has become his biggest advocate, spreading the word about Malachi’s music wherever he goes. This unwavering support has been instrumental in fueling Malachi’s passion and driving his career forward.
Looking Ahead: Evolving as an Artist
With “Reason to Live” out now, Malachi has more music in the pipeline. He describes his evolving style as leaning toward a singer-songwriter or folk sound, though even he finds it hard to pin down. “I’ve asked people in the industry what my style is, and they’re not sure either. They tell me not to put too much of a label on it,” he says. To him, each song is its own piece of artwork, reflecting how he feels in the moment.
As he continues to grow both as a musician and as an individual, Malachi Gagnon hopes to inspire others through his music. His passion for songwriting, his openness to exploring complex emotions, and his dedication to creating meaningful art make him an artist to watch in the coming years.
