Swedish-born artist and vocalist Manda Malina joins the Pirate Studios Podcast to talk about growing up around music, learning Pro Tools at 10, and launching her career through Swedish X Factor as a teenager.

In this episode, Manda reflects on the reality of moving from early industry momentum into a more self-directed creative life in LA, where she has learned to prioritise authenticity, fun and versatility over the constant pressure to release music and chase social content.

She also breaks down her sound — a blend of Swedish pop, 2000s R&B, lush harmonies and sensual, body-positive energy — and talks about the different sides of her career, from solo releases to Vegas production shows and her jazz cabaret project, Velvet Noir.

We also get into the pressure on independent artists, navigating early industry experiences, her ...