In April 2025, Malcolm Todd launched his self-titled debut album with the song ‘Harry Styles,’ where he candidly expressed: “I wasn’t chosen for Flog Gnaw / I should have been there / But I don’t have to be upset because next year I’ll perform at a better time of day.” Fast forward to November, and Malcolm Todd took the stage at that very festival for a 7 PM performance in front of a huge crowd of enthusiastic fans, demonstrating that he has always known exactly where he belongs.
With over 11 million monthly listeners on Spotify, the Los Angeles native has carved out a reputation as one of indie pop's most captivating artists. His hit ‘Chest Pain (I Love)’ made its debut on the Billboard Hot 100, enabling him to transform his viral success into a sustainable career. Despite the buzz surrounding him, Todd remains grounded and genuine. Just as much a boy as he is an artist, he is simply grateful to be in the spotlight, making it all the more easy to support him.
Clash had a brief opportunity to speak with Todd right before his Camp Flog Gnaw performance, marking his transition from an emerging talent to a fully established star.
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You’re quite young, yet your music feels very mature. What influences from your parents shaped your love for music?
MT: My dad listened to a lot of Grateful Dead and folk artists like James Taylor, Paul Simon, and Jack Johnson. My mom was into The Beatles and musical theater, including shows like Into the Woods and Wicked. She also loved artists like Stevie Wonder, and my dad had a fondness for Bob Marley. It was a diverse range of classic music.
Are you still a fan of Wicked?
MT: Absolutely! I’m a big Wicked fan. I went to see it on Broadway with my sister. I love it.
The blend of Broadway and Bob Marley is quite a contrast. Does this contribute to your feeling of musical freedom?
Definitely! I just love music. I try to avoid limiting myself and see music as one cohesive whole.
How did you discover music? Were you part of the blog era?
No, I mainly found music through YouTube. That was my primary outlet. Growing up, I didn’t engage much with social media; I didn’t even have TikTok until my music career began when I was around 18 or 19. YouTube was where I discovered artists like Rex Orange County and Omar Apollo through their music videos.
It’s impressive that you recently collaborated with Apollo on ‘Bleed.’ What’s it like to have former inspirations become your peers?
It’s amazing. Sometimes I catch myself reflecting on it, like in the shower, and I think, “Wow.” But when I’m in the moment, it’s just about being with people. They’re individuals I admire, but they are also just like me, so it’s nice being around them.
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The internet has embraced you, and people see you as a modern-day Princess Diana. Does that influence your music-making process, considering how people perceive you?
I try to set that aside. I believe I’ve reached this point because of my music, and ultimately, I’m a musician. That’s what I need to concentrate on. Everything related to my personal life is just me moving forward. I focus on the music because that’s what people truly connect with.
We’re currently at Camp Flog Gnaw, a festival you once expressed disappointment about not being part of. Did it take vulnerability to address those feelings?
Absolutely. That’s the essence of music—being vulnerable. I aim to write my music in real time, reflecting my thoughts from that moment. So, when I felt that way, I thought, “If this is what I’m thinking, I should voice it. That’s my role.”
Now that you're here, how does it feel? Are you surprised?
It feels incredible! I’m genuinely amazed. This festival has a special connection for me due to both the music and my LA roots. I've always aspired to be a part of this, and it’s surreal to finally be here. I’m really looking forward to Tyler’s performance; it’s legendary to see him at his own festival. The enthusiasm around him is so inspiring. Being amidst that energy is like experiencing The Era’s Tour for a Taylor Swift fan. The excitement is palpable, and being around that vibe is truly motivating.
Speaking of enthusiasm, what’s your favorite Tyler project and why?
It has to be ‘Flower Boy.’ I think the answer varies depending on when someone discovered each album, as he has one for every graduating class. I found ‘Flower Boy’ in eighth grade transitioning to ninth, which was such a defining time in my life, around 14 and 15. Those years really shape who you are, and that’s what I was listening to back then.
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Words: Jazmin Kylene
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In April 2025, Malcolm Todd launched his self-titled debut album with the song 'Harry Styles', in which he candidly expressed: “I wasn't chosen.