Pop sensation and virtuoso pianist Saint Micah (formerly known as Micah McLaurin) is stepping into a new era with a new name, and he’s come a long way to get to this point.
He came from a religious upbringing and was even subjected to conversation therapy before he overcame that trying experience, fully embracing his queer identity and moving closer and closer to his truest self. It’s a also a subject he explores deftly with his new dance-pop single, “The Grind,” which celebrated its official music video release on Friday. The video features a metamorphosis of sorts, directed by visual artists and fashion photographers Domen and Van De to create a high-concept fashion show come to life. Featuring avant garde styles from Balmain, Zaldy and Robert Cavalli, as well as custom couture pieces, its narrative shows Micah pushing against the his identity has been warped by his role in life. Instead, he’s ready to shift into authenticity and be completely himself. We had the pleasure of chatting with Micah to learn all about the new song and more in our interview with him as our Man Crush Monday below.
(‘The Grind’ via Micah McLaurin)
Name: Micah McLaurin
Hometown: Charleston, South Carolina
Birthday: October 3
1. Micah released the cinematic music video for his new song, “The Grind,” on Friday.
Saint Micah: I was inspired by nightlife in cities like New York, London, Paris and other places I visit frequently. It’s a commentary on the balance of work and pleasure, and how everyone has a “work persona” that’s different to the person behind that… The one they don’t show in the workplace. It’s like meeting someone for who they are, rather than meeting them and asking, “What do you do?” A lot of parties or conversations that start with “What do you do?” are about what people can gain from you, but “The Grind” is about letting go of all that and being yourself in an environment where it doesn’t matter who you are, what your status is, or what you do for a living.
2. He’s done a lot of work to get to that point of reclaiming who he is and taking control of his own life.
Micah: I’ve gone to therapy for many years, and I put myself in situations that are outside my comfort zone and push me personally and artistically. I explore what makes me curious, instead of holding myself back.
3. His weirdest “hobby” is definitely one we haven’t heard of before.
Micah: Umm… is reviewing luxury hotels a hobby?
Also read about: Everything You Wanted to Know About ‘Senses’ Singer-Songwriter MICO
4. He’d love to steal Cruella de Vil’s style.
Micah: Period, point blank.
5. One thing he’s super obsessed with that he wishes more people knew about is the impact of great bedding.
Micah: I might get cancelled for this, but high quality down bedding—like pillows and duvets. I’m not into synthetic; it itches and feels suffocating. The high quality down bedding is like a divine cloud. So sumptuous and lofty. You have to experience it!
6. When we chatted, the last song he’d had stuck in his head was Madonna’s “I Feel So Free.”
7. You may not expect it, but his all-time favorite food is pepperoni pizza.
Micah: Yes, I’m basic when it comes to food.
8. Asked his favorite day of the year, he turns to a classic Miss Congeniality quote.
Micah: Probably April 25th, because it’s not too hot and not too cold. All you need is a light jacket.
Also read about: Everything You Wanted to Know About ‘Out Loud’ Artist Alejandro Aranda
9. He thinks he’d be terrible at just about any job that doesn’t involve making music.
Micah: I couldn’t imagine it. Especially cooking. I hate cooking.
10. He says the best concert he’s ever seen was Lady Gaga’s Chromatic Ball Tour.
Micah: It was seamless start to finish, and the introduction was like a religious experience. The tension and release into “Bad Romance” was unforgettable.
11. One thing that’s core to Micah’s personality is that he might not be what he seems at first glance.
Micah: I might come off as a b**** because I’m shy, but I’m actually really warm when you get to know me.
For even more on our musical man crushes, click HERE to learn all about DJ and “Girl” artist, Jonas Blue.
