Newly signed to independent label TLD Records, rising singer songwriter Maya Law has returned with new single ‘Mother Tongue’, presenting a heartfelt exploration of her mixed race heritage.

Fresh from supporting Pip Millett and Children of Zeus at their respective gigs in Maya’s hometown of Norwich, ‘Mother Tongue’ is the first in a string of new singles set to be released this year. It follows her debut EP ‘Hitchhiking’ which dropped in 2021, as well as collaborations with South London producer Mom Tudie on ‘Gold’ and multifaceted talent Freya Roy on ‘Fantasies Reimagined’ alongside Gabriel Gifford.

New single ‘Mother Tongue’ highlights Maya Law’s confessional songwriting ability as she struggles to connect with parts of her dual heritage. Contemplative in its approach, Maya’s inner turmoil is reflected in the track’s brooding sound which brings together soul and jazz influences with a raw, acoustic sound. Her warming vocals and soft guitar riffs are injected with emphatic instrumentation as the self-professed “shape shifter” vents her conflicting feelings, expertly delivered with passion and integrity.

Speaking of the inspiration for ‘Mother Tongue’ Maya Law explains: “I wrote Mother Tongue in the winter lockdown when I had too much time to think and had an identity crisis. I've always shied away from talking about my heritage as it's just been easier to avoid the question. I think it’s quite common for people of mixed race to feel conflicted about their identity, especially when one side of you is in a country you have nothing to do with anymore. Mother Tongue is an ode to the parts of myself that I’ve inherited from my mum, whether they have positive or negative connotations. I’ve still got lots of learning to do until I feel totally comfortable with my identity, and this is just part of the process."

Not afraid to express her deepest emotions through her music, Maya’s autobiographical songwriting offers a refreshingly candid insight into her personal experiences with mental health and being a queer woman of colour. She’s immensely inspired by Amy Winehouse, and credits the late singer’s ability to weave heartbreak into beautiful music as a big reference point in her own music - something that’s abundantly clear in her lyricism. This uncompromising musical vision has led to widespread support from BBC Radio 1, BBC Radio 2, BBC Radio 6 Music and BBC Introducing, as well as sharing stages with highly regarded artists including Connie Constance, Loyle Carner, Andreya Triana and Akala in recent years.

‘Mother Tongue’ is OUT NOW via TLD Records and will be followed by a series of singles this spring.