In the ever-evolving landscape of contemporary hip-hop and R&B, few artists bring as much depth and authenticity to their craft as malia dishon. Raised in a household immersed in music, her sound is an organic fusion of dance, house, pop, R&B, and alternative. Her decision to spell her name in all lowercase isn’t just an aesthetic choice—it reflects her artistic sensibility. “I’m a very visual person, and I just liked the way it looked in lowercase,” she explains.

As the daughter of Ray Murray—co-founder of the legendary production collective Organized Noize and The Dungeon Family—and music and film executive Dee Dee Murray, malia was born into a world of creative innovation. Growing up surrounded by icons like Usher and André 3000 of Outkast, she witnessed firsthand the power of artistic expression. “Watching them achieve their dreams as a kid was so inspiring,” she recalls. “That firsthand example showed me that success wasn’t out of reach.”

Her father’s groundbreaking work with artists like En Vogue, Ludacris, and Goodie Mob provided malia with an invaluable education in music production and storytelling. This foundation paved the way for her collaboration with Organized Noize, the visionary trio responsible for some of the most defining sounds of ‘90s Southern hip-hop and R&B. Known for their lush, live instrumentation and layered production techniques, Organized Noize played a crucial role in shaping Atlanta’s sonic identity.

Through her father’s connections, malia was able to integrate herself into the Organized Noize legacy, but her success is anything but inherited—her distinct voice and dynamic artistry have carved out a space uniquely her own. Infusing rich, soulful melodies with emotionally charged lyrics, she brings a fresh yet nostalgic energy to her music. Her latest single, King of Lies, is a testament to this, blending an infectious rhythm with sultry R&B vibes, delivering a powerful message of strength and self-assurance.

Malia’s relationship with The Dungeon Family goes beyond mere collaboration—it’s familial. “We’re all so close it’s like we’re a family,” she shares. “Most people would address them as artists, but I call them my uncles because that’s how I grew up addressing them.” The Dungeon Family, named after Rico Wade’s basement studio, has long been a hub of creativity and innovation. Comprised of Wade, malia’s father Ray Murray, and singer-songwriter-producer Sleepy Brown, the collective has crafted hits for Outkast, TLC, Goodie Mob, and CeeLo Green. Their emphasis on artistic growth and fearless experimentation has shaped generations of musicians, including malia.

“There’s a lot of love within The Dungeon Family,” malia emphasizes. “I think people should know that.” This ethos of collaboration and mentorship has profoundly influenced her career, allowing her to hone her craft while maintaining artistic integrity. Her live performances have further cemented her reputation, showcasing her versatility, vocal prowess, and commanding stage presence.

The influence of Organized Noize and The Dungeon Family extends beyond their own catalog, as they continue to shape the next wave of Atlanta’s music scene. Their signature sound—an intricate blend of funk, soul, and hip-hop—has become a defining element of Southern music. Malia, in turn, has contributed to this lineage, paying homage to her roots while pushing sonic boundaries. Whether working on projects reminiscent of Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik or exploring modern musical landscapes, she is part of the ongoing evolution of Atlanta’s rich musical heritage.

As her career continues to ascend, malia dishon has already achieved significant milestones, garnering both national and international recognition. Looking ahead, she teases, “I’m working on a lot of songs. I’ll have a new EP coming in the near future.”

Beyond music, malia remains deeply committed to her community, using her platform to advocate for mental health awareness and arts education. Her dedication to both her craft and her causes positions her as more than just an artist—she is a movement. With an ever-expanding body of work, a collaborative spirit, and an unwavering commitment to authenticity, malia dishon is poised to leave an indelible mark on the music industry for years to come.

Photography Credit: Kirth Bobb