[Premiere] Rising R&B Starlet Mali Nicole Declares Her Independence In Smooth Video, ‘Funny’

Rising Cali starlet Mali Nicole has brought a refreshed flair back to the R&B music scene with her new song “Funny.” Today (Aug. 4), she premieres the sensual video, solidifying her star presence.

The song features a satisfying sample of Janet Jackson’s “Funny How Time Flies (When You’re Having Fun),” but while Janet’s version details an intimate encounter, Nicole’s version relishes in the single life after an unfulfilling relationship.

“I might still think about you but I ain’t lonely / I stay chillin’ out with my homies,” she sings on the first verse. “Oh it’s funny how time flies / I takes a lot to love, no I can’t waste my time,” she sings on the chorus.

The video sees the Watts, CA-native in the desert serving the camera beauty shot after beauty shot with her commanding presence.

“Funny” is the first release from her forthcoming project, which will follow last year’s Central Ave, Vol. 1 E.P, the first in a three-part series.

Mali began her road to success as one-fifth of her family group, Statik Express. To get their music noticed, they would sell their album throughout LA neighborhoods every day and then one day they sold their album to FOX’s hit show, X Factor producer. This chance encounter eventually lead the group to secure an audition for X Factor, where they beat out hundreds of thousands of contestants to make it to the “TOP 30” on X Factor. This national exposure eventually landed her a record deal with Stampede Management, the company responsible for the success of Snoop Dogg, YG, Riff Raff, Far East Movement, and more.

Her first single “Mirror Dance,” demonstrates growth into a young woman, singer and dancer, and sheds light on her personal growth and evolution from her 2013 offering, Sweet Sixteen, a compilation of covers of her favorite songs to celebrate her 16th birthday. Since stepping into the spotlight, Mali has recognized her impact on young kids, which inspired her to write Finish First, a personal book that empowers and encourage her peers to follow their dreams.

Mali is currently touring Los Angeles Area high schools to discuss the book and spread its positive message to thousands of kids and young adults throughout Southern California. “I am excited to share my Central Ave project with the world, been working very to make it perfect. It embodies where I am at in life growing up in LA. This project is honest and real, which reflects the city that raised me,” said Mali Nicole on her project. “I think lot of girls that come from a similar place will be able to relate.”