Rising Malaysian artist Valerayy marks a powerful new chapter in her career with the release of her second EP, VILLAIN, under Xpose and Universal Music Malaysia. Following the success of her debut project Castles & Carriages, this new EP showcases a bold transformation, capturing her evolution into a fearless, self-assured artist who is no longer afraid to embrace her imperfections, defiance and truths.
Speaking about the inspiration behind the project, Valerayy reveals her motivation to reclaim her narrative. She explains that for a long time she felt the need to overjustify herself and live up to others’ expectations. “I was kinda sick of people making me out as the bad guy. I wanted to reclaim my voice. For so long, I found myself overexplaining, trying to control how people saw me. But I realized I was done wasting my life trying to please everyone,” she shares. “This EP is me letting go of that.”
With VILLAIN, Valerayy dives deep into themes of identity, empowerment, and emotional liberation. Once weighed down by the pressure to be perfect, she now embraces the complexities of who she is, even the darker sides. “I used to reprimand myself for the way I am, the way I think, the way I act, the choices I made,” she says. “This EP is me acknowledging the so-called ‘bad’ side of myself and learning to be okay with it. Am I the villain? Sure, if that’s how you want to see me. But aren’t we all a little deviant anyway?”
The title track “Villain” stands at the heart of the EP, driven by haunting dark-pop production and commanding vocals. Poised with conviction, the track explores temptation, rebellion and the freedom found in rejecting expectations. Instead of running from the label, Valerayy flips the script, turning “villain” into a symbol of rebirth and unapologetic power. The song was written by Valerayy and produced by Zain, with additional production from Hayze following her signing with Xpose and Universal. She credits both producers for helping shape her sonic identity on this project.
Since releasing her first EP, Valerayy enters this new era with confidence and calm determination. “I’m less frantic this time,” she reflects. “I’m just excited and hoping I find people who connect with the darker side of my sound. I love both my EPs, but I have to admit, I might love this one more.”
To celebrate the arrival of VILLAIN, Valerayy will be performing live at Nights of Fright 11 at Sunway Lagoon on 31 October 2025. Audiences can expect a thrilling Halloween showcase, featuring her first live performances of “Villain” and the empowering anthem “Greatest Warrior.” The stage debut marks the beginning of her new era, aligning perfectly with the mysterious and dramatic tone of the EP.
Looking ahead, Valerayy aims to expand her online presence and bring her music to more stages. With plans to be more active on her platforms and hopes to perform at future festivals, she is ready to continue building momentum and connecting with listeners who resonate with her journey and sound. VILLAIN by Valerayy is now available on all major streaming platforms.