Based in Southern California, Miki has been releasing music independently since they were 16, having racked up over 50 million streams in the process. Even before the release of their first album, the Finnish-American artist built a sizable audience by openly and honestly welcoming people into their world, from coming out to getting top surgery to struggles with mental health. Expanding on their acoustic roots, Miki transcends the singer-songwriter genre and effortlessly for a bigger, more evolved sound. The unifying message is one of agency. Building off their first record, Miki has not only grown as a producer, musician, and songwriter, but also as a person. On i’ll be fine if i want to, Miki doesn’t ask, but rather demands that the world take them as they are, whether they’re expressing joy, pain, or something in between. “if i blame myself.” A groovy, electric guitar driven jam, is really a showcase for Miki’s musicianship. Starting from scratch several times, the song’s final form is the result of Miki experimenting and jamming out solo for a day. Layering acoustic and electric guitar with bass, Miki says, “I felt like a musician in its truest form.” Inspired by their time on stage, “if i blame myself,” is a true testament to Miki’s performative abilities, and proof that they’re ready to tour with a full backing band. But aside from the track’s dance worthy groove, the story behind it details the toxic relationship with an emotionally abusive ex team member. While those themes may seem dark in contrast with the song’s overall vibe, Miki is offering their listeners a chance at catharsis. What better way to get over something than to dance it off? After releasing their 2022 full-length debut i owe it to myself, Miki went on the road, completing their first national tour supporting Lauren Sanderson and Jordy, followed by dates with Ambar Lucid & Sammy Rae & The Friends. Not only has Miki connected more deeply with their audience over the past year, but they’ve also received praise and playlisting by the likes of Billboard Pride, them., Under the Radar, PopMatters, The Advocate, and more.