“Just for once, for me, would you believe that you, you can do anything…
I’ll never know how, you come running for me,
Just when I need you to be, who you are long enough so my troubles are far…
Down from the ashes, you will rise up again,
And when your walls are caving in,
Who are you, When it’s giving you all you can take…”
These poignant lyrics are from the brand new single released by Mumbai-based singer-songwriter Yohan Marshall, for which he has a collaborated with Mali or Maalavika Manoj, another popular and versatile singer-songwriter making a buzz in the Indian indie music industry. Titled ‘Just for Once’, this pop number in English is Marshall’s second release for the year.
The song’s soulful beats and thought-provoking lyrics are accompanied by a visually appealing video which was released a week after the song came out on May 10. Apart from short-form content and the high-production music video, an acoustic version of the track has also been made, which is available on all online platforms.
“’Just For Once’ is a reminder that anything is possible if you never give up. Since it touches on such a universal and important theme, we were both keen to deliver an emotional cinematic-pop masterpiece that perfectly blends acoustic singer-songwriter elements with orchestral grandiosity. I believe we succeeded in doing so,” smiles Marshall.
“I think the song will act as a friend reaffirming your faith during your toughest moments,” adds Mali. “The song speaks about overcoming adversity, breaking limiting beliefs and reaching for your potential no matter what. In fact, I believe that it’s a musical reminder to believe in yourself.”
“I’m sure there a number of music lovers who may have needed a little pick-me-up during those tough times when it feels like the world is against them. They can add a dose of inspiration to their playlist with our latest track,” says Marshall. “This cinematic-pop anthem is like a warm hug from your best friend, encouraging you to push through adversity, break limiting beliefs, and reach for your full potential.”
Mali’s strong and melodic vocals add depth to this musical collaboration by complementing Marshall’s versatility and talent. Having travelled the world to perform, collaborate and create music since the age of fifteen, Marshall has become an integral part of the country’s independent music scene. He has performed at India’s biggest venues and festivals including Lollapalooza, NH7, Supersonic, Ragasthan, Hornbill, Live From the Console, NCPA, NLS Strawberry fields, IIT Madras and NLU Delhi, to name a few.
Marshall has toured with artists like Arijit Singh, Off & Savera, Lisa Mishra and Vir Das. He has also walked the ramp for Lakmé Fashion Week and been featured in GQ’s best-dressed campaign as well as in Cosmopolitan magazine in 2024. He is also a TEDx speaker and has performed at many noteworthy events including the popular TV show called the ‘The Stage’, Formula-E India and the Priyanka Chopra-Nick Jonas wedding. His most recent hits include two singles released in the winter of 2023 called ‘Maan Ja Zara’ ft. Riya Duggal and ‘Haan Bhool Ja’ ft. Lothika, and one released earlier this year called ‘Jo Tu Mere Pass Hai’, which has crossed 100k listens on Spotify.
Mali also hails from Mumbai and her music is a unique blend of classic pop influences with a contemporary twist. Her debut full-length album titled ‘Caution to the Wind,’ garnered a lot of appreciation when it came out in the year 2021. Mali has collaborated with some of the biggest names in the Indian music industry, including Oscar and Grammy-winning composer AR Rahman. She has performed at prestigious venues such as Wembley Arena in London and Le Zénith in Paris, and her voice has been featured in several leading ad campaigns.
‘Just for Once’ is certainly grabbing attention. Both Marshall and Mali grace the cover of the Spotify playlist ‘IndiEnglish’ for this song, which is a testament to their rising prominence in the indie music scene in India. This track has also been featured on the Spotify editorial playlist called ‘Naya Indiestan’, which has helped to amplify its reach to an even wider audience. Additionally, the song has also been featured in four prominent Apple Music playlists which has helped further solidify their presence in the music industry. These are ‘New Music Daily’, ‘New in Pop’, ‘Breaking Pop’, and ‘Breaking Indian Independent’.
Noor Anand Chawla pens lifestyle articles for various publications and her blog www.nooranandchawla.com.