Malynda Hale – Using Music and Storytelling to Amplify Black Voices (Award Winning Singer, Actress & Director From America)

"At the core of everything I do—whether it’s music, acting, or activism—is a desire to connect with people and make them feel seen."

Q. You began singing and writing music at a young age. How has your connection to music grown over the years, from your early influences to your work today in film and TV? 

Music has always been a huge part of my life, but my relationship with it has definitely evolved over time. When I first started, I was focused more on pop and singer-songwriter material—writing about love, life, and everything in between.

But as I grew both personally and professionally, my music started to reflect my values and my desire to speak out on issues that matter. I began writing songs centered around justice, identity, and truth. That shift opened doors to more purpose-driven opportunities, including work in film and TV where I could align my artistry with storytelling that has impact.

Q. You’ve opened for legends and performed at major events. Is there one performance that stands out as especially meaningful to you, and why?

Honestly, the teenage girl in me still can’t believe I got to open for O-Town. It was a total bucket list moment! I grew up loving boybands, and to have that full circle experience as an adult—getting to share the stage with a group I loved—was incredibly special. It reminded me of why I wanted to be a performer in the first place.

Q. WeNeedToTalk has evolved into a brand and Substack. What was the vision behind that shift, and what do you hope to achieve with it?

WeNeedToTalk started as a podcast and when I paused it I definitely missed it. So creating it as a Subtack was just a simple way for me to express my thoughts and spark dialogue around social issues, faith, and identity.

I hope over time that it will evolve into something much bigger—a platform for honest conversations, connection, and advocacy. Moving it to Substack allowed me to create more intentional space for community and deeper reflections. My hope is that it continues to be a space for people navigating complex topics, and that it inspires readers to think critically, feel deeply, and take action.

Q. What inspired your transition into directing with Curtain Call, and how did the experience differ from being in front of the camera or on stage?

Directing Curtain Call was a turning point for me creatively. I’ve always loved being in front of the camera or on stage, but stepping into a directorial role gave me a completely different kind of leadership. 

It allowed me to shape the story from start to finish and really center the narrative through my own lens. It was also special because it was a script my husband wrote so being able to bring his words to life was a beautiful experience. I wasn’t sure I wanted to direct but I’ve always loved telling stories that aren’t often given a platform. The experience stretched me in the best way, and I walked away feeling like I could do it again and even better next time.

Q. Through the Black Voices Heard Project, you amplify Black stories and perspectives. How has that work influenced your approach to storytelling?

The Black Voices Heard Project has been a deeply moving experience. It reminded me that storytelling is not just about entertainment—it’s about truth-telling, healing, and empowerment. Amplifying Black stories has pushed me to be more intentional about the narratives I choose to support and create. It’s reinforced the importance of authenticity, representation, and making space for voices that have historically been silenced or sidelined.

Q. You’ve worn many creative hats—singer, actress, director, activist. Which role feels most natural or fulfilling to you, and why?

It’s hard to choose just one because they all feed different parts of me. But if I had to pick, I’d say being a storyteller—in whatever form that takes—feels the most natural. Whether it’s through music, acting, directing, or activism, at the core of everything I do is a desire to connect with people and make them feel seen. That’s what fuels me.

Bio

Malynda Hale is a multi-award-winning singer, actress, director, and activist based in Los Angeles. A dynamic performer with roots in Santa Barbara, she began writing music at the age of nine and has since built an inspiring career spanning music, film, and social impact. 

Her musical accolades include “Best Female Vocalist” at the Hollywood Music in Media Awards and “Pop Song of the Year” at The Josie Music Awards. She has performed internationally, opened for artists like Smokey Robinson and OTOWN, and sung the national anthem for teams such as the LA Dodgers and Lakers.

As an actress, Malynda has starred in feature films like Bull Street, indie hits, and numerous stage productions, and recently made her directorial debut with Curtain Call. She is also the founder of the Black Voices Heard Project, a platform that uplifts Black narratives through storytelling. 

Malynda hosted the widely praised #WeNeedToTalk podcast and is a frequent media voice on CNN, NPR, ABC News Live, and more. Honored by the Anti-Defamation League as a Hero Against Hate and named one of Wired’s Top Influencers Shaping the 2024 Election, Malynda continues to use her artistry and advocacy to inspire change and amplify underrepresented voices.

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Interviewed By Irene Elina Eldhose