We had the good fortune of connecting with Malachi Atkinson and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Malachi, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Independence & Freedom. I believe strongly in ownership and being able to choose your own future, so for me, this was inevitable.
My decision to create my web design agency MAVE Design has allowed me to work with who I want, set my terms, and create the things I am most passionate for. On top of that, being able to help people in my community with the skill sets I have been blessed with is something no 9-5 job has matched for me yet.
I still love my main job however, but I believe we should all pursue our passions independently even if only partially.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’m super excited to be releasing my first EP called Unloving You.. This has been a 5 year journey that breaks down my evolution from relying on different relationships in my past to feel fulfilled, to realizing that true fulfillment comes from that belief in yourself & giving back to others. It will be released in 3 parts titled Honeymoon, Breakdown, and finally Breakthrough. I can’t wait to share it with the world.
Getting to this point took a very long time, creating such a large project with very little music released prior is not easy. I am super grateful for making my decision to move to Philadelphia and discovering Rec Philly. It allowed me to meet so many amazing people, many of whom are featured on the project, and taught me all about the release process. Understanding not only how to properly craft a cohesive story over 10 songs while keeping it engaging was the main goal. From there, I had to learn about the release process, sampling, and royalties so everything can stay in-house.
What you’re going to realize when listening to this project is just how much time and care was put into each song. Each of them tell a story, each of them teach a lesson, and each one of them are a hit. My ability to tell my story in a way that relates is unmatched and something I pride myself on. Be ready
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
First off we’d have to hit up Rec Philly, because if you’re my friend you’re most likely creative yourself. This place is like an adult playground for people like us with multiple recording studios, art stations, computer labs, and everything in between. Not only that, it has some of the most talented people in the city.
Next we’d have to get some oxtail cheesesteaks over at Taste Bar, this place is black-owned and best in the city.
Afterwards I love walking around the city, checking out Rittenhouse Square, or walking along the river at Penn’s landing. Then we can hit the night life in center city, but you HAVE to start with DBG bar, the music there is always bumping and is near all the hotspots. Gotta let the night take you from there
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Shoutout to Da Crew & A1phaGang! Both groups have helped me so much in my pursuits and it’s amazing to have people that work with me and keep me motivated
Website: https://www.mave.design/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_book.of.malachi_/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/malachi-atkinson/
Image Credits
Shauna Moon