Mackenzie Maughan’s KISS & TELL: A ballad turned pop-rock anthem
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18.10.2024

Mackenzie Maughan’s KISS & TELL: A ballad turned pop-rock anthem

Words by Staff Writer

Melbourne-based singer-songwriter Mackenzie Maughan has just dropped her highly anticipated pop rock single KISS & TELL and prepare to be blown away by the sublime production and vocal prowess.

Well, at least prepare to be blown away if you haven’t heard Haunted yet.

If you have, you’ll know just how impressive Mackenzie’s vocal chops are. But that’s partly what makes KISS & TELL so impressive; after making waves with her debut emotional ballad, Mackenzie is stepping boldly into a new musical era with an energetic and powerful anthem.

Mackenzie Maughan

Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.

Originally crafted as a “soft acoustic ballad”, KISS & TELL has undergone a remarkable transformation into a pop rock anthem that embodies empowerment and self-reliance. This evolution is a message to the industry – Mackenzie is committed to stepping outside her comfort zone and creating music that resonates with her growing audience in fresh and exciting ways.

Mackenzie wrote KISS & TELL for anyone who has ever wished their ex the best but didn’t really mean it, tapping into the relatable frustration of watching an ex move on easily and sharing how well they’re doing in an effort to make you jealous. As Mackenzie says, “I think it’s safe to say we’ve all been there, and I wanted to write something to help let those emotions out!”

She has a serious one-two punch here with her vocal and lyrical prowess but the first thing you notice about KISS & TELL is how well-produced it is by Mackenzie’s talented producers PRETTY HAVØC (Tyler Thang) and LAINE. The guitar is gorgeously mastered and while the chords are rooted in pop punk, Mackenzie’s vocals provide the perfect contrast—pitch-perfect and soaring towards the chorus, hitting every note with precision.

The skill evident in every aspect of this track is undeniable, particularly in its canny lyricism. Mackenzie effortlessly nailing that combination of pop-rock punchiness and audience empowerment. She can easily shift between power and vulnerability and showcase a spectrum of emotions, bringing to mind the genre-defining variability of Paramore.

As the guitars and percussion rise and fall subtly behind her vocals, Mackenzie’s voice takes centre stage, demanding full attention for her voice and the emotional weight of her lyrics. It’s supremely impressive that she nails both, making KISS & TELL an anthem that uplifts and inspires.

Follow Mackenzie on her socials to keep track of an upcoming launch party for KISS & TELL and see her perform live at a very special New Year’s Eve show, Sunset on the Yarra, here.

Follow Mackenzie Maughan’s music everywhere here.