Despite its size, Malta is home to an incredibly diverse music scene, and one of its freshest brightest stars is none other than Cherry Rey, a Canadian by birth but Maltese by heart. With her original style of international influences and deep local roots, Cherry has become a mesmerising presence on stages across the island. Here’s a closer look at her journey, her music, and the inspiration behind her performances.

A Journey from Montreal to Malta

Michelle known professionally as Cherry Rey, was born and raised in Montreal, Canada, before moving to Malta at the age of 12. She quickly adapted to life on the island, learning Maltese fluently and immersing herself in the local culture. After completing her secondary education at Santa Lucija Girls Secondary School, Michelle worked in various jobs, starting with small grocery stores and later moving into customer service. Despite her early career in customer service, it was music that truly called to her.

From Humble Beginnings to Full-Time Performer

Cherry’s musical journey began at just eight years old when she joined her school choir. Over the years, her love for singing led her to take part in numerous competitions both in Malta and abroad. Her first live performance was at a small bar in Valletta, and from there, she began expanding her repertoire, singing across the island. Today, Cherry has turned her passion for music into a full-time career, becoming a much-loved performer in Malta’s music scene.

The Maltese Influence on Cherry’s Sound

Living in Malta has had a significant impact on Cherry’s musical style. “Malta definitely influenced my song choices and musical taste,” she shares. The island’s love for hits from the 80s, 90s, and early 2000s, alongside a strong affection for Italian music, has played a big role in shaping her sound. These genres are beloved by the locals, and Cherry has embraced them fully, often incorporating these songs into her performances. She has even developed a personal fondness for these styles, listening to them outside of work as well.

Standing Out in a Competitive Industry

Like any emerging artist, Cherry has faced her share of challenges in the competitive Maltese music scene. However, what has helped her breakthrough is her ability to stand out. “The music industry is tough, but being different is key,” Cherry explains. “I sing in different languages and perform songs that may not always be common, but that everyone still knows and loves.” 

Her multilingual abilities, speaking five languages including Maltese, have given her a distinct advantage, allowing her to connect with a broader range of audiences. This ability to interact with her fans in their native language makes her performances feel more personal and engaging.

A Favourite Performance: Back to Black

When asked about her favourite song to perform, Cherry highlights Back to Black by Amy Winehouse. “It has such a catchy rhythm, and the lyrics are deeply meaningful,” she says. “It makes me sing with emotion, and I love seeing that emotion resonate with the audience. We all experience the story together.” This powerful song has become one of Cherry’s most popular performances, with her soulful rendition bringing the emotional depth of the lyrics to life for her listeners.