Rising Canadian pop artist Nicky MacKenzie has kicked off the next chapter of her career with “I Should Go,” a shimmering dance-pop track that dropped July 28. Known for her soulful voice and ability to fuse timeless influences with modern polish, MacKenzie delivers a track that’s as intoxicating as the late-night temptation it describes.
“I wrote this song about bad habits, dark and twisted nights, and the feeling you get when you know you’re supposed to say no, but you just can’t help saying yes,” MacKenzie shares.
That push-pull tension pulses through the production, which is anchored by a grooving bassline, disco-tinged beats, and layered vocals that draw comparisons to Alicia Keys, Amy Winehouse, and Joss Stone. The chorus builds with vibrant energy, while MacKenzie’s voice glides between silky restraint and powerful release, creating a mood that’s equal parts vulnerable and irresistible.
The single has already caught the attention of music outlets across the globe, with Lefuturewave praising its “vibrant, upbeat groove” and glamglare calling it “a perfect pick for the day” thanks to its infectious beat and magnetic vocal delivery.
“I Should Go” marks the first in a series of singles leading up to MacKenzie’s debut full-length album, set to arrive later in 2025, which promises to blend emotional vulnerability with genre-blurring production from Herag Sanbalian (Alessia Cara, Mckenna Grace), Jasper Kuijper, and JUNO-nominated Gus van Go.
Hailing from Salt Spring Island, BC, MacKenzie has already built an impressive résumé having won the Canadian Songwriting Challenge, appearing on CTV’s The Launch, earning over two million streams, and captivating audiences at festivals like Phillips Backyard and Rifflandia.
With “I Should Go,” MacKenzie signals a bold leap forward, setting the tone for what could be her breakout year. If the rest of her upcoming album carries this level of confidence, vulnerability, and groove, she won’t be Canada’s best-kept secret for long.
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