On A High Note: Melissa Indot

Junk speaks to the effervescent and stylish Melissa Indot, a multi-talented Malaysian-born and London-bred singer-songwriter. Melissa’s worldly upbringing sees her providing a perfect blend of both local and international flavours in her music. Melissa, who was based in London for almost 20 years, had some success in 90s pop duo Confucius Says. Now settled back in Malaysia, Melissa has released her debut solo album Eclecticism. Expect a dose of everything from electro pop to soulful ballads from this album.

What song never fails to make you happy?
I’ve got to say 'One More Time' by Daft Punk, because it reminds me of good times. I know this is not a song, but I also love the sound of babies laughing – it’s so natural, pure and unjaded.

Who was your first music celebrity crush?
Bjork – I think she’s insanely creative.

Tell us about someone who was really gung-ho about getting you to listen to music...
I have this newfound friend named Peter Homans, whom I communicate with solely via e-mail. He’s an American classical composer who’s very passionate and inspired by music, and by my music. Peter sends me pieces he composes himself and other music by people I’ve never heard of. Even though I barely know him, we share a commonality in music. And it’s amazing to have someone who’s willing to share their knowledge with me.

Who was musically important to you when you were below ten years old, in your teens and now?
I think it’d have to be my parents, especially my mum. They were the people responsible for bringing music into my life. Other than that, I look to classic songwriters like Stevie Wonder and Burt Bacharach for inspiration.

What’s the first music video you recall watching and what fascinated you about?
That’s got to be the 'Thriller' video by Michael Jackson. It was like a mini-movie and for that time, the special effects and choreography were groundbreaking. I remember being petrified whenever I watched it.

What is your most musical prized possession?
My lyric book. I have these notebooks that I carry around wherever I go, and I write my poetry and lyrics in it. It’s nice to be able to flip back to a page where I had written lyrics years ago and be reminded of how I was feeling at the time.

What’s the greatest advice you’ve been given about music?
Be truthful with your music. Don’t change your music just because someone says the content or sound is not commercial enough. If it seems right, then go with it. People listening will always know if you’re trying to be something you’re not.

Spice Girls vs. the Pussycat Dolls vs. The Supremes. Which would you pick and why?
Hands down, The Supremes win simply for their soulfulness.

What was the first album you bought with your own money?
I want to say something cool but it was probably something like The Carpenters’ Greatest Hits. They’re just great songwriters. I also feel it’s because my mum listened to a lot of The Carpenters when she was pregnant with me, so I have a natural affinity for their music. The Carpenters' blood runs through my veins!

Words Didi Photos Buzzz Management
www.myspace.com/melissaindot

*Taken from JUNK's January 2008 issue