Words By: Jordyn Kieft

Atlanta-born and Los Angeles-based singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Mae Mae recently released “Squishy,” the first single and video from her debut EP, Gummy Heart Eyes. With shimmering xylophone and mischievous bass fluttering throughout, “Squishy” is magnified by a kaleidoscope of whimsical sounds and an infectious hook as the track emulates the joyous emotions you feel when you’re surrounded by people you love.

Inspired by the bliss she feels from life’s little pleasures, Mae Mae’s storytelling reflects how her wide-eyed wonder and optimism collide with the world around her. Depicting a home movie-style walk through a garden with her very sweet four-legged companion, “Squishy” accurately reflects how her distinctive charm blends into pop appeal. With a calm and inviting aesthetic, you are bound to fall in love with Mae Mae.

The video begins with an instrumental, introducing Mae Mae’s signature style. Mae Mae holds her dog close as she walks around a garden with a koi fish pond in a black fur coat and hat. Mae Mae begins singing soon after, her soft angelic voice talking about someone she clearly thinks is beautiful. Mae Mae then confesses that the “you” in the song makes her “squishy inside.” She explains that she can’t sleep at night, but is okay with that as long as she is “your favorite baby.” As the second verse begins, Mae Mae continues to walk around the garden with her dog, this time singing about a toddler spilling spaghetti and getting their toys taken away at 5. The chorus then repeats, with the home movie-style aspects of the video taking the stage. We can see Mae Mae walking her dog through a recreational area, the koi fish up close, and even some unfocused blurry shots of plant life. When Mae Mae begins singing again, she is also seen singing on camera for the first time. She sings, “My love goes out to you/ When life tries to harden you/ You still have your gummy heart eyes/ Hope you stay squishy inside.” As this verse repeats, the drumbeat picks up. You can feel the beat in your chest as you think of your own someone that makes you squishy inside, making your heartbeat stronger and louder. The video ends with Mae Mae playing with her dog and walking away from the camera.

Keep an eye out for more folk hits by Mae Mae and the eventual release of her debut EP Gummy Heart Eyes in the future!