Maia Friedman

Maia Friedman grew up in California's Sierra Nevada region, an environment that deeply influenced her artistic sensibilities. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the mountains and forests, she developed a profound appreciation for the natural world, a theme that would later permeate her songwriting. From a young age, Friedman was drawn to music, learning to play the guitar and piano, and honing her vocal skills. Her early exposure to a diverse range of musical genres laid the foundation for her eclectic style, blending elements of chamber pop, indie rock, and folk.

After completing her education, Friedman moved to New York City to pursue a career in music. The vibrant and diverse music scene of the city provided her with numerous opportunities to collaborate with other artists and refine her craft. She began performing at local venues, gradually building a reputation for her emotive performances and intricate compositions. This period of exploration and growth was instrumental in shaping her unique musical voice, characterized by its melodic intimacy and lyrical depth.

In 2018, Maia Friedman joined the acclaimed indie rock band Dirty Projectors as a vocalist and multi-instrumentalist. Her contributions added a new dimension to the band's sound, and she played a significant role in their 2020 release, '5EPs'. Her work with Dirty Projectors showcased her versatility and ability to blend seamlessly into collaborative projects, earning her recognition within the indie music community.

Simultaneously, Friedman co-founded the band Coco with Oliver Hill and Dan Molad. The trio released their self-titled debut album in 2021, which was praised for its dreamy, introspective sound. Coco allowed Friedman to explore different musical landscapes, further expanding her artistic horizons. The band's collaborative approach to songwriting and production provided her with a platform to experiment and evolve as an artist, setting the stage for her subsequent solo endeavors.

In 2022, Maia Friedman embarked on her solo career with the release of her debut album, 'Under the New Light'. The album was produced in collaboration with Philip Weinrobe and Oliver Hill, and it featured a collection of songs that blended lush arrangements with introspective lyrics. Tracks like 'First to Love' and 'Where the Rocks Are' highlighted her ability to craft emotive narratives set against intricate musical backdrops.

The album received critical acclaim, with reviewers praising its immersive and intricate soundscapes. 'Under the New Light' established Friedman as a compelling solo artist, capable of creating music that resonates deeply with listeners. The success of the album led to a series of performances across the United States and Europe, where she shared stages with artists like Bedouine, Charlotte Day Wilson, and Lord Huron. These live performances further solidified her reputation as a captivating performer, known for her emotive delivery and musical craftsmanship.

In 2025, Maia Friedman released her sophomore solo album, 'Goodbye Long Winter Shadow', under Last Gang Records. The album was produced with Philip Weinrobe and Oliver Hill, and it featured a rich tapestry of strings, woodwinds, and acoustic guitar, all anchored by Friedman's warm, expressive voice. The album's lush arrangements and sage lyricism reflected her devotion to nature and her exploration of time and transformation, themes influenced by her upbringing in California's Sierra Nevada region.

Tracks like 'New Flowers' and 'On Passing' showcased her ability to weave intricate musical compositions with deeply personal narratives. 'New Flowers' was described as brimming with self-compassion, exploring themes of love lost and self-discovery. The album's production was noted for its chamber pop sensibilities, creating a world where instruments bob and weave around the clarity of Friedman's voice. 'Goodbye Long Winter Shadow' was met with critical acclaim, further establishing Friedman as a significant voice in contemporary music.

Maia Friedman's music is characterized by its lush, evocative arrangements and introspective lyrics. Drawing from her upbringing in the Sierra Nevada region, her songs often reflect a deep connection to nature and an exploration of personal transformation. Her work blends elements of chamber pop, indie rock, and folk, creating a sound that is both timeless and contemporary.

Her collaborations with bands like Dirty Projectors and Coco have showcased her versatility and ability to adapt to different musical styles. As a solo artist, Friedman has continued to evolve, experimenting with new sounds and themes. Her music resonates with listeners for its emotional depth and melodic intimacy, establishing her as a compelling voice in the indie music scene. Through her thoughtful compositions and emotive performances, Friedman continues to inspire and influence both her peers and fans alike.

https://www.instagram.com/maiafffff

https://maiafriedman.com/

https://soundcloud.com/maiafffff

https://music.apple.com/us/artist/maia-friedman/1366429383