Maddie Zahm: Now That I’ve Been Honest Tour Hits NYC
Maddie Zahm is the voice of authenticity.
Raised in Boise, Idaho, Maddie's musical roots stem from her upbringing as a worship leader, heavily involved in church music and choirs. However, her artistic evolution truly began after auditioning for American Idol, where she delved into writing, recording, and releasing original music.
Initially leaning towards a country-inspired sound and securing a publishing deal with her album "People Pleaser," Maddie faced a turning point when her label suggested her music wasn't reflecting her true essence. Transitioning towards pop, Maddie discovered her genuine voice, characterized by raw honesty and vulnerability.
Unapologetically spilling all, Maddie opened up about her personal trauma, sexuality, and relationship with her body with the release of her 2022 single "Fat Funny Friend." The song quickly went viral, becoming an anthem for people trying to find their place in the world.
Maddie's debut EP You Might Not Like Her released in 2022 is boldly autobiographical, detailing her departure from the church, relocation to LA, and coming out as queer. In short, it's an EP about the messiness of the human experience.
Continuing her introspective exploration, Maddie's latest album, Now That I've Been Honest, comprises twelve tracks that delve even deeper into her psyche, showcasing a newfound confidence and self-assuredness.
I had the opportunity to catch Maddie during her Irving Plaza show in NYC.
Singer/songwriter Leanna Firestone opened the night by playing an acoustic set. Connecting effortlessly with the crowd, Leanna kept things entertaining by joking around between songs. From the complex and emotional "Least Favorite Only Child" to the upbeat punchy "Forever and Ever," her set showcased her abilities and range.
As the lights dimmed, the audience buzzed in anticipation for Maddie's set. Beginning with the poignant "Blind Spot," which unravels the complexities of toxic relationships and self-worth, the crowd immediately sings along with Maddie. It was evident that her raw, honest lyrics struck a chord with listeners.
Transitioning seamlessly to the infectious "Eightball Girl," Maddie showcased her lyrical prowess with clever wordplay and electro-infused production, capturing the euphoria and uncertainty of infatuation.
Switching up the vibe, Maddie brings in her history with religion with the somber ballad "Lights On Kind Of Lover." “I never wanted someone to want me / My history, it told me that was dirty / And then you held me down until it changed me / Now I’ll never want somebody else to want me,” she opens up in the song.
Throughout her performance, Maddie showcased her range and emotional depth, from addressing religious trauma in "Where Do All The Good Kids Go?" to exploring feelings in "Dani" and delivering feel-good rhythms in "Lady Killer."
Maddie also treated the crowd to two unreleased songs, "Sheets" and "Little Me." While "Sheets" is about her first wlw heartbreak and the other person moving on quickly, it's funky and upbeat with a twist in the lyrics, "Did you even change your sheets?"
"Little Me" goes back to Maddie's emotional side. Stark and wholly relatable, the song addresses how "sometimes ‘little me’ makes an appearance." Delving into all the things that her "little me" does and wants, Maddie contrasts to growth in herself while still acknowledging that sometimes we fall back into our little selves and need an extra boost.
