Mae Stephens has always had a gift for turning deeply personal experiences into pop that resonates on a universal level. From the global success of If We Ever Broke UP a track that earned her over 500 million streams and chart-topping positions across continents, to touring with P!NK and BLACKPINK, she’s never shied away from making music that connects. Now, with her latest single Tiny Voice, Mae takes listeners inside the messier corners of her mind, giving humour and heart to the intrusive thoughts so many of us suppress. Written alongside Pablo Bowman and Grammy-winning producer Lostboy, the track is a playful yet revealing exploration of the little voices that interrupt our day-to-day.

Speaking with FAULT Magazine, Mae opened up about the cathartic process of writing the song, how her approach to music has shifted beyond chasing hits, and the balancing act between vulnerability and connection.

FAULT Magazine: Tiny Voice playfully explores intrusive thoughts so how did you go about translating something so internal and messy into a song that still feels fun and universally relatable?

Mae Stephens: It’s simply the parts of our brain we don’t really talk about. That inner monologue most of us try to ignore day to day. Tiny Voice highlights the simple random crazy thoughts our brains conjure in the most mundane moments.

FAULT Magazine: What was the moment in the studio when you knew this song had something special?

Mae Stephens: When the chorus was finished. That hit on the “hey, Yeah you!” Really gets me every time.

FAULT Magazine: You’ve spoken about how music has always been an escape for you—when you’re writing now, do you approach it more as a form of therapy, storytelling, or pure creativity?

Mae Stephens: I like to find trending elements and pop them in where I can. I’ve found so much peace and emotion in that middle 8 section that makes you feel like you’re floating in space filled with harmony.

FAULT Magazine: From If We Ever Broke Up to now, how do you feel your songwriting has evolved?

Mae Stephens: I don’t focus on chasing a hit anymore. I write about things I feel people will relate to and songs that help people. I write with intention and emotion rather than chart chasing.

FAULT Magazine: Do you ever feel vulnerable sharing the inner thoughts that come with ADHD with your audience?

Mae Stephens: Absolutely! But that’s the key to connection. I used to be very closed up about what’s on my mind and recently I’ve found so much peace in the truth and honesty in how I’m feeling, both in my music and my personal life with my friends and family.

FAULT Magazine: Your career has already seen great success with previous releases, do you feel pressure to top previous milestones with each release?

Mae Stephens: I think as an artist, you always feel pressure to deliver. But I know the music I have prepared will speak to people. I don’t expect my music to hit everyone’s sweet spot, but I hope it connects with my fans — that’s all I can ask for as a musician.

FAULT Magazine: Looking ahead, what sounds or themes are you most excited to explore on the album that maybe fans won’t expect after hearing your singles so far?

Mae Stephens: I’m really deep diving into a bolder sound and some very niche topics. I’ve had the time and freedom to figure out what I like but also what I truly believe my fans will enjoy.

FAULT Magazine: What is your FAULT?

Mae Stephens: I’m a chronic people pleaser but also an independent thinker. I strive to make people happy, but I also dream of being able to just speak my opinions and not care what others think of it. I’ve grown up in a society that is so torn between the two that I’m sat in this happy medium.