Photo Credits: @malcolmtodd on Instagram.
Author: Anniyah Fitzhugh
TikTok has become a melting pot for up-and-coming artists, giving many their first big break, in addition to a loyal audience to grow with. I would say that Malcolm Todd is one of those standout artists. With each new project, he has continued to level up, not only musically but also with how he presents himself to the world. He’s cracked the code on marketing by being true to what makes him unique: his authenticity.
That originality has made him a fan favorite, especially on TikTok, where viewers have followed his rise from hidden gem to rising star. Now, as his popularity grows, so do his collaborations. His recent track “Bleed” featuring Omar Apollo is a major moment that introduced more attention to his latest album, not to mention the music video, which features an appearance from Omar Apollo and Jack Harlow, which further fueled the buzz around Todd’s upcoming project. As a result of that collaboration, suddenly more eyes were on him, more ears tuned in, and by the time the full album was released, it was clear: this was his season.
Now that the full project is out, I’ve had it on repeat, and I have pulled together my top five favorite tracks.
Photo Credits: @malcolmtodd on Instagram.
1. Track 11: “Concrete”
“Concrete” kicks off with an intro of a woman calling Malcolm pathetic for crying, and let’s just say it really sets the tone for the entire song. Immediately after, we’re hit with a strong percussion beat coupled with a funky bassline. Lyrics that express feelings of being trapped or even suffocated by a toxic relationship that gets layered on top.
My favorite part of this track is the second verse. The vibe switches from a smooth but funky vibe to a more intense moment. Malcolm’s voice, paired with heavier percussion and synths, aids a dramatic contrast that really fits the track.
The music video for this track is hilarious. It shows Malcolm following this girl around at a party, throwing looks at her, and asking others about who she is the whole time. Watch the video, and you’ll be surprised to see who the girl is. (Fun fact: the band Laundry Day also makes an appearance in the video!)
2. Track 5: “Doll”
“Doll” follows the same themes of being in a toxic relationship, mainly the feelings of being manipulated and controlled. The song dives into the idea of being used, like a toy, by a partner, but at the same time, there is this sense of acceptance.
At one point, Malcolm refers to himself as a “little game”, expressing the willingness to be used until he is broken down. It shows the consistent emotional cycle of giving yourself away piece by piece.
“Doll” ends with a simple string section and horns that contrast with the lyrics, yet it fits perfectly. The outro features a younger Malcolm speaking to someone, saying that he’s busy because he is playing. I think it reflects the childlike nature of play, which adds a nostalgic, bittersweet layer to the song.
3. Track 2: “Make Me a Better Man”
“Make Me a Better Man” is a track I’ve been playing on repeat ever since this project was released. The track opens with a soft pop/jazz feel, gradually incorporating a melody driven by piano and drums.
This track shares the story of Malcolm falling for someone who, realistically, wasn’t ever going to love him back. The track navigates the emotional aftermath of that unreciprocated connection. The lyrics are relatively simple but insanely impactful, perfectly capturing the confusion and pain of being in a relationship that was never meant to be.
4. Track 1: “Harry Styles”
Having “Harry Styles” as the first track, the album was an incredible choice for the sake of storytelling. The entire album, in many ways, feels like Malcolm’s story, and this song is the prologue. It believes it sets the basis for important themes that come up in his album, specifically the conflict between staying authentic versus the constant pressure to conform within the music industry. This track addresses the public perception of what a pop star should be, hinting at the pressure that Malcolm faces to fit into a specific mold or sound.
One line that stood out to me was: “You’ll never make a profit if you’re trying to be cool.” I believe it circles back to the core idea that nowadays people, dare I say, have lost the plot when it comes to making music. At times, it feels like it is no longer about the love of art or creating something meaningful or personal. This track questions whether success is worth sacrificing authenticity.
5. Track 15: “Cheer Me On”
“Cheer Me On” starts with a catchy guitar riff and captures Malcolm’s desire to return to his past romantic inclination, which is expressed with an infectious chorus, “I live for you to cheer me on,” that is coupled with an incredible music break. This track is upbeat and fun, yet it also hits hard on themes of longing and love.
Malcolm’s latest album is self-titled, and honestly, it feels very fitting. With this project, it seems like Malcolm has truly found his niche. In the past, I would listen to his music and pick out influences from other artists within his songs, not that that is a bad thing, but it was noticeable. Now, his music feels different. It’s fresh, original, and entirely his own.
There is this sense of clarity in his sound, as if he has fully stepped into who he is as an artist. It does not feel borrowed or inspired, it feels authentically Malcolm.
Anniyah Fitzhugh I KXSU Music & Arts Reporter