Michelle Malone

Michelle Malone’s had a pretty astounding career; from being discovered by Clive Davis to touring with ZZ Top through a deal with Walter Yetnikoff’s ill-fated Velvel to years as a DIY artist. She’s been making rugged roots-inflected rock for more than 18 years, and she’s ready for a little succor, even if it means giving up a little control.

“I am so ready to give up so much, you have no idea. I’m not ready to compromise my morals, soul or values, but I’m willing to give up control because eventually they just beat it out of you. And I’m fucking tired. Somebody come get me,” Malone laughs. “I put out my own records for a while and all that happened was I got exhausted. I still sold a lot of records, but my quality of life dropped from working so hard. Then I went to Amy at Daemon [for 2003’s Stompin’ Ground] because they’re my family and that was great, but now I think I’m ready to step it up another notch.”

A lifelong Atlanta resident, she needed a break. Something different. It’s the same with music: After several years with a backing band, she’s cut back to a more economical guitar/drum duo. And the music she’s recording for the new album reflects that return-to-basics aesthetic.

“The new record is very blues-rock and slide guitar-oriented, very raw and basic. It’s mostly just guitar and drums, and most of the songs are just rock ‘n’ roll songs about touring, sex and drinking,” she says. “I got tired of trying to write the important song of my life, trying to write a song for radio or the greatest song ever. I just completely regressed - or went full circle - and started writing silly, three-chord rock songs again, and it’s the most fun I’ve had in a long time.”

She’s talking with several midsize independents while she continues to work on the new album here in Atlanta. Meanwhile, she’s enjoying the relief from being serious.

“I’ve been honest and told people what I’ve thought for many years,” Malone says. “Now I just want to have some fun, and shake my ass for a while. I don’t want to think about getting deep or changing the world. I don’t want to reinvent the wheel - I just want to roll it.”

Michelle Malone plays Fri., June 24, at Atlanta Pride. For more info, see www.atlantapride.org. Also, Sat., June 25, 7 and 9:30 p.m. $15. Eddie’s Attic, 515-B McDonough St., Decatur. 404-377-4976. www.eddiesattic.com.