Artist Spotlight

Six Questions with Sofia Kourtesis

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Photo Credit: Dan Medhurst

Peruvian producer and DJ Sofia Kourtesis draws constant inspiration from her family. Her 2021 breakthrough single, La Perla, honored her late father, blending a flowing melody with voice recordings that capture her sense of longing for home from Berlin.

After remixing tracks for Caroline Polachek and Jungle, Kourtesis released her debut album. Madres in October 2023, dedicated to her mother and the neurosurgeon who performed life-saving cancer surgery on her.

The album features 10 tracks showcasing her emotive approach to electronic production and blends Sofia’s Peruvian roots and Berlin club influences, exploring both personal resilience and community.

Kourtesis answered six quick questions before her performance at Desert Air Festival.

If you had to describe your music using three words, what would they be

Playful, happy, and nostalgic. I aim to evoke those emotions and take listeners on a journey through sound.

What’s your best networking tip?

I believe in making genuine connections. Look people in the eye, engage in natural conversations, and be yourself. Focus on building authentic relationships with those who share your passions—it's all about creating bonds that matter.

What's your favorite/least favorite thing about making music?

My favorite part of making music is the freedom to express myself and connect with others through sound. However, there are moments that can be tough, like dealing with creative blocks or the pressures of the industry. Despite these challenges, I choose to focus on the joy and fulfillment that music brings me, as it's a dream I've always wanted to pursue.

3 things you can't live without in your bag

My passport, phone, and my Venlafaxine antidepressant pills. These essentials keep me connected and grounded, especially when traveling or managing daily life.

What’s your favorite way to unwind when you’re not making music?

There’s something liberating about stepping outside my routine and experiencing life in the moment.

What are you listening to at the moment?

Right now, I’m really into Floating Points, Caribou—who has been a great mentor to me—and Arca. Their unique sounds inspire me and keep my creativity flowing.

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Friedberg's Hardcore Workout Queen

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Friedberg - Photo Credit: Lewis Vorn

Friedberg is an all-female four-piece bringing a hypnotic mix of dance-punk, indie, and guitar pop to every show.

They’ve been gaining momentum and even caught the eye of AnnenMayKantereit, who invited them to support their German stadium tour last summer. Recently, Friedberg wrapped up a U.S. tour with Giant Rooks after a strong showing at SXSW.

In May, they played the Jazz Café in London, opening for Big Special, and later that summer, they joined Placebo on their UK tour. This added to an impressive list of shows, which includes past tours with Hot Chip in both the UK - the band played a headline show at London’s iconic 100 Club on November 4 - and the U.S.

Their latest singles, released through Clouds Hill, are gaining attention and airplay on BBC 6 Music, Radio 1, and Radio X. Their upcoming album ‘Hardcore Workout Queen’ produced by Oli Bayston, is set to be released on November 8.

In this Q&A, the singer-songwriter and frontwoman for Friedberg Anna Wappel speaks about their album Hardcore Workout Queen, their creative process, and what’s next.

Your album Hardcore Workout Queen has such an intriguing title, what’s the story behind it?

Hardcore Workout Queen is a song on the album that I wrote in a really lazy mood, when I woke up one morning and everyone was running past my house for the third time while I was busy making my third breakfast. I was cheering for all the hardcore workout Queens, but I just couldn't participate. It's kind of a funny look on the whole self optimization obsession, but also in a loving way. It's a song for everyone, no matter if you're on the gym or if you're late in the sofa at home.

If you had to choose one song from your album to introduce people to your music, which one would it be and why?

I think maybe ‘Hardcore Workout Queen’ because I like the lyrics and the drive it has got, but as I can never ever decide, I would also like everyone to listen to 100Times too, because it is such a vibe

How has touring with bands like Placebo and Hot Chip been?

Both were super fun. The U.S. tour with Hot Chip was truly unforgettable! I think a few more dance beats snuck into our album after touring with them. And I’ve also worked in the studio on some new tunes with them which was amazing. The downside: I’ve realised that being a support band on tour is insanely fun, but also ridiculously expensive. I really wish there were more grants for touring musicians.

You’ve built a lot of momentum since forming in 2019. What advice would you give to new artists trying to grow and find their place in the music industry?

Trusting your gut. Trusting your gut. Trusting your gut. Learn to delegate, so you’ll get more time to actually do music. (That’s mainly an advice for myself haha)

What’s your best networking tip? 

Be curious to meet people. Don’t be scared to ask a lot of questions.

What's your favorite/least favorite thing about making music?  

The moment when you go to a studio with someone - with a producer, a friend or a bandmate - and you just go in there with nothing, completely blank, and you start to have a jam, and then write or make something up in the moment. It's super scary, but I like the thrill of it and I like to go home in the evening with something we’ve created. That’s my favorite thing.

My least favorite thing is finishing stuff. I find it really hard to make decisions, and the feeling of committing to a final thing, “this is it now, you can't do any more changes”… I love to have all the options, but then I also can't make decisions. So, I find finishing stuff really hard.

Friedberg - Photo Credit: Lewis Vorn

What’s your favorite way to unwind when you’re not making music?

Playing football. I started a football team in Hackney Wick, and we play once a week. It’s the only time I can truly switch off my brain—just chasing that stupid ball around!

If you had to describe your music using three words, what would they be?

Pop, dance, punk

What are you listening to at the moment?

Just discovered Joshua Idehen’s track “Mum Does the Washing“, when I was a guest at 6music’s Roundtable the other day. The lyrics are incredible and you’ve got to hear it. The music video is pretty amazing too.

NOURI: My Music is Vulnerable, Honest, and Meaningful

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NOURI is a Kurdish singer and songwriter whose journey began in a Syrian refugee camp, where she was born and lived until the age of three. Her career in the global music scene started in 2018 with her debut single, "Where Do We Go From Here," which gained international attention, hitting #1 on multiple charts and marking her as an artist to watch.

Her latest single, "Change In Your Name," is a gospel ballad that reached #4 on Billboard’s Gospel Digital Chart and amassed millions of streams. In the newly released music video, NOURI’s performance captures the emotional weight of the song’s message about faith and transformation.

In this short Q&A for shesaid.so, NOURI speaks about her connection to her roots and how music continues to be her form of expression and healing.

How have those early experiences at the Syrian refugee camp shaped your approach to songwriting and music?

I would say, more so now than ever. It's definitely shaped it in a way where it's a lot more honest and vulnerable. If you don't hear it in the lyrics, you definitely hear it in my voice. I feel like you can hear the experiences in my voice and the feeling that I'm able to give these songs. I'm very grateful to God. I wouldn't be here without God. Looking back at where I've come from, to the positions that God has put me in, I'm very, very grateful, and my songs definitely reflect that more now.

What’s the story behind your single“Change In Your Name”?

I wrote the song in December of 2023 at a very low point in my life. I felt very lost and alone, and it was me simply having a conversation with God, more like a prayer, if anything. And the song just simply happened. I wrote the song in two hours and it's definitely my favorite.

What's your favorite/least favorite thing about making music?

My least favorite is writer's block, because there's nothing worse than going to the studio or setting up to write a song and then nothing comes to you. There's got to be the worst. And then the best thing, I would say, is being able to be so creatively free. As musicians, as artists, as writers, you can go into the studio and literally write about anything, and I think that's pretty cool.

What's your favorite way to unwind when you're not making music?

I would say is to be out in nature. I love being at the beach. I love going for hikes. You know? I love going to the gym. But there's just something about being in nature that really helps me feel at peace and just to kind of forget everything and reset. So definitely nature.

If you had to describe your music using three words, what would they be?

Vulnerable. Honest. Meaningful.

3 things you can't live without in your bag.

My lip liner, my lip balm, and also my blush - I seriously, I can't leave the house without it. If you look at my bag, it's just kind of “On the Go” makeup. That's my that's my thing.

What are you listening to at the moment?

At the moment, I listen to a lot of worship music. I love listening to instrumentals, jazz music in the morning. As a musician, you would think I listened to different types of music, but I'm not. I think it gets a bit much for me, so I just try to keep it simple at the moment. Billie Eilish for sure!

Follow NOURI: Instagram | TikTok | Spotify

Red Bull Records' Morgan on Her Newest Project 'Emotional Gangster'

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Morgan is one of the UK’s most exciting rising stars in Pop and R&B, with over 80 million combined streams, a dedicated online following, and a new label home at Red Bull Records. Her forthcoming project, titled Emotional Gangster, features a collaboration with dancehall heavyweight Byron Messia.

Morgan's journey started young—she began performing at just three years old, and by 18, she was touring the world as a vocalist for Rudimental. Her solo career took off with the release of ‘My Year,’ a sparkling pop debut, followed by the hit collaboration ‘Mulholland Drive’ with Ebenezer, which earned over 10 million streams. Her subsequent EP Alien was packed with golden-era pop influences and featured collaborations with Anne-Marie, Cadenza, Dyo, Preditah, and Rudimental.

At 17, she wrote ‘ADCT,’ which later climbed to the top of both TikTok Trending Sounds and the UK Top 50, racking up over 25 million streams. Morgan has also co-written and featured on major tracks like Rudimental & Digga D’s ‘Be the One’ and Sigma’s ‘Adrenaline Rush,’ which sampled Bittersweet Symphony. Recently, she’s expanded her reach by writing for top K-pop artists like NCT’s Jaehyun and will feature on Purple Disco Machine’s upcoming album PARADISE later this year.

Now, with two sold-out London headline shows under her belt and her first UK headline tour set to kick off at the end of the year, Morgan is one of the most emerging talents in the scene. Her latest single, ‘Wheel Up,’ a collaboration with Jamaican superstar Byron Messia, dropped on 25th September via her upcoming sophomore EP Emotional Gangster, out on 25th October.

In this Q&A, Morgan opens up about her new single “Wheel Up”, working with Byron Messia, and what fans can expect from her highly anticipated EP.

Your new EP Emotional Gangster is dropping soon. What is the story/inspiration behind it?

I'm so excited for this EP to drop - it's been a minute since I dropped my own music. The story behind it is pretty simple. Firstly, a lot of people, especially my friends, think that I am this super tough person - I have an extremely tough exterior (it might be the Aries in me - I have a lot of fire). However, I am hugely emotional and sensitive at heart. Secondly, I wanted to create a project that incorporates both sides of my personality whilst also highlighting the versatility in my sound and songwriting. I absolutely hate being put in a box.

“Wheel Up” feels like an homage to Jamaican sound system culture, but also taps into the UK rave scene. How do these two worlds connect for you, and where do you fit in?

I'm half Jamaican and  half British so the connection is plain and simple. I'm a proud product of dual heritage and you can hear those influences in my music. 

What is your top networking tip for connecting with the right people in music e.g. a manager or a record label?

Never rush into a working relationship. Take your time sussing people out and ensuring they have the best possible intentions. I built a relationship with my manager for at least a year before entering a business relationship with her. 

Tips for finding your creativity on a tough day

A producer once told me to keep on creating even when I feel creatively blocked as it helps you get all the s*** out - that stuck with me. I try to keep writing even if I'm not feeling inspired. Even if a session isn't how I have wanted it to go, I've still learnt something that day. 

What advice would you give to artists that are just starting out?

Perseverance and shamelessness are key! 

3 things you can't live without in your bag

You will never see me without a lip gloss or lip liner - it's my makeup staple. I always need my phone - especially when I am in sessions, my notes section is literally where you will find all my song ideas and lyrics. Lastly, my car keys - I literally drive everywhere and always seem to be in my car (it's become a running joke with my team... even every zoom meeting involves me in or next to my car).

Morgan will go on a tour this November, headlining five shows across the UK, including a date at London’s iconic Jazz Cafe. The dates are as follows and tickets are available HERE:

November 25: Glasgow @ The Poetry Club

November 26: Manchester @ YES

November 28: London @ Jazz Café

November 30: Birmingham @ The Sunflower Lounge

December 1: Bristol @ The Louisiana

Filah Lah Lah on Creating the First Ever Visual Album by a South African R&B/Soul Artist

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Emerging R&B and Soul artist Filah Lah Lah dropped her debut album On Air in May. Shortly after, she released the first-ever visual album by a South African R&B/Soul female artist, performing all 18 tracks in a 36-minute film that invites listeners on a journey of self-discovery, blending soulful melodies, introspective lyrics, and striking visuals.

Filah Lah Lah’s musical journey is rooted in her childhood, heavily influenced by her father’s love for Jazz, Funk, and Rhythm and Blues. Exposed to legends like Nina Simone, Miles Davis, Marvin Gaye, and Smokey Robinson, Filah has developed a distinctive sound.

In this Q&A, we caught up with Filah Lah Lah to dive into the creative process of her debut album On Air.

What’s the story behind your debut album "On Air"? 

On Air is really an archival ode to media. Media had a huge influence on my wanting to be an artist and I wanted to explore that in an artistic way. 

What influences your sound? 

My parents’ love for Jazz and Funk had a huge influence. I’m a student of black music in general and that’s definitely because of my parents and the love they had for it. I wanted to emulate that love.

We love that "On Air" has a visual film! What was the creative process behind?

The sonics were already giving movie to be honest. We just followed suit visually and it all just made sense.

If you could play only one song from “On Air” forever, which one would it be? 

Vaughn’s Song for sure. It took me a while to write a song about my late brother and I i’m still feel like Vaughn’s song doesn’t articulate those feelings in the best way but it’s close and I know he’d be proud of it.

What’s your best networking tip? 

Don’t worry too much about how you’re being perceived. Image may be everything but when you’re so concerned about it I think it can take away from the essence of who you really are. I’m a yapping oversharer who likes to make people laugh and honestly that’s been one of my greatest networking tools - within reason of course.

For more information on Filah Lah Lah

Instagram | Twitter | Tik-Tok | Apple Music | Spotify

Ni Maxine's Afro-Centric and Soulful Sound

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British Neo-Jazz singer-songwriter Ni Maxine (hailed as a "Black Woman at The Forefront of the UK Jazz Scene" by Black Ballad), is sparking intergenerational conversations through her music, exploring themes of home, identity, self-esteem, and belonging.

Often compared to Billie Holiday, Sade, and Erykah Badu, her political lyricism and timeless vocals have taken her to the main stages including Liverpool's Africa Oyé, Gilles Peterson's 'We Out Here,' and the EFG London Jazz Festival as well as a BBC Introducing 'highlight' live session, a Manchester Jazz Festival performance broadcast on BBC Radio 3's J to Z, and a live appearance on BBC Radio 4's 'Front Row’.

Her award-winning debut single 'Strange Love,' supported by tastemakers Jamie Cullum (The Jazz Show), YolanDa Brown (Jazz FM), Jamz Supernova, and China Moses (Jazz FM), was played across Jazz FM, Radio 1, 1Xtra, and Selector Radio, marking Ni Maxine as an artist to watch.

Ni Maxine has returned with a new single, a reimagining of ‘God Bless The Child’ and a slew of live performance dates off the back of sold-out live shows.

What initially drew you to music, and how did you decide to pursue it as a career?

Music has always been a huge part of my life, but a career in music isn’t something I really considered until that gap between lockdowns in 2020, if I remember rightly. I went busking to raise some money to pay off a debt and it led to me being offered a residency at the coolest coffee shop and wine bar in Liverpool, Ropes & Twines. I’d invite all of my friends down and I'd sing jazz standards and a handful of Amy Winehouse songs that I loved, with my guitarist, and drink Riesling (I used to drink wine, back then) and it caused a ripple effect because lots of bars and restaurants invited me to sing. It wasn’t long before I started to weave a few original songs into my sets that I’d written in lockdown, and people seemed to like them. I then got to the point, later-on, after pouring my heart out every Sunday to a room full of people who were not listening, that I decided to pursue my career as an artist. I have something to say, and I want people to hear me.

As co-founder of The Wombat Jazz Club, what do you aim to achieve with its monthly events and initiatives like 'The Jazz Project' and 'TOGETHER'?

I always feel selfish when I say this, but I simply wish to create the kind of spaces I needed as a young person, but didn’t have access to! I just want to create spaces where everyone feels welcome and allowed to express themselves, freely. It’s simple! I love jazz music and sometimes feel like it’s been taken out of context, out of the hands of the people it originated with, Black people, and like the idea of saying ‘Hey, Jazz is a Black art form, give it back!’ So yeah, that is the thread that runs through my curation decisions when it comes to programming events for ‘The Wombat Jazz Club’.

How do you balance your roles as a performer, songwriter, and co-founder of The Wombat Jazz Club?

With difficulty, at times, to be honest. I’m writing this through eyes filled with tears. It can be so overwhelming managing all of the logistics for live dates, with session musicians and tight budgets, and doing interviews and sessions on radio as well running events on the side, but I’m building a team around me, and I am hoping it all falls into place soon!

What advice would you give to artists that are just starting out?

My biggest advice to artists starting out is to be confident in your art, what you’re trying to say and how you’re saying it. Everyone will have an opinion, but your art is ultimately about you. If you like it, it’s good enough. Remember that!

Tips for finding your creativity on a tough day

Lean into whatever it is that is making the day difficult and put pen to paper. I hate to be one of those people who says that journaling really helps, but it really does. I think sometimes, I have to remind myself that whatever I write might not turn into a masterpiece, but it might help clear whatever is creating a block.

3 things you can't live without in your bag

  • My airpods

  • Lipgloss

  • A spare pair of knickers

Upcoming Live Shows

23 November 2024 - EFG London Jazz Festival

Connect with Ni Maxine

FACEBOOK / INSTAGRAM / WEBSITE / TIK TOK / X

IYAMAH's Rootsy Soul Sound and Debut Album, 'In Two Worlds'

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Brighton-born, London-based vocalist and songwriter IYAMAH is carving out a unique soulful R&B sound she calls Rootsy Soul.

Growing up on the sounds of African drumming and reggae music, IYAMAH began to use song writing at the piano as a way of diary-like expression age twelve. By sixteen, she started writing top lines for DnB tracks with Brighton-based label Shogun Audio.

She went on to feature on My NuLeng’s “Senses”, touring the summer festivals including Glastonbury and SW4. In 2024, she has collaborated with Pola & Bryson on “Too Shy” and with DJ Zinc on “Stubborn”.

IYAMAH moved to London aged nineteen to study at the Institute of Contemporary Music Performance, winning scholarship award for best vocals. She has since been handpicked to tour with the likes of Masego and Mahalia, recorded live sessions for Metropolis Songs, Redbull and Majestic Casual, and sold-out multiple headline shows including The Jazz Café and OMEARA. She has accumulated over 20 million streams and received continuous support from Yazmin Evans and DJ Ace (BBC 1Xtra).

Her debut album, 'In Two Worlds,' delves into her relationship with her past and inner child, exploring themes like nature, success, spirituality and mental health.

Congratulations on the release of your debut album ‘In Two Worlds’! You mentioned that the album started with a Tarot reading. Can you tell us a bit about the inspiration behind the album?

Yes ‘in Two Worlds’ started off the back of a tarot reading. I was feeling torn between my dreams and my reality, so I guess it helped me to make sense of how I was feeling at the time and give a perspective I needed to hear. It was mental how the three cards completely reflected my situation at the time and gave some insight into my past, present and future. I decided to base my two worlds on the imagery that was presented to me that day 

‘In Two Worlds’ explores a variety of themes including nature, success, and spirituality. How do these themes reflect your personal experiences and growth as an artist?

My songs are always reflecting where I’m at in my life, or where I was when i wrote it. Nature is something I always come back to, it’s what grounds me, it’s always there whether you see it or you don’t. But my relationship with success is a little more complicated, it’s something I’m still figuring out today. Sometimes it’s important to me and sometimes it isn’t. Spirituality is always evolving and growing into different things each day and then you realise it’s all the same thing. You go in and out, up and back down with all of the above. Nothing is everything and everything is nothing! 

You've described your sound as "Rootsy Soul". What does this mean?

Well my music comes from my roots, it’s all the genre’s that inspired me growing up, reggae, hiphop, soul, jazz, and of course soul. 

As a newcomer in the music industry', can you share a special moment from the album's creation that really stood out to you?

It’s always special when the project finally clicks in to place. For so long it’s just this idea and all these thoughts going round in your head, and it can get confusing, the lines start to get blurred, and it’s easy to overthink and start questioning everything. Until it just makes sense. That’s a beautiful thing when you finally see it for what it is. But I think the most special part of this whole experience has been touring these songs with the band 2 years after it all began. They really brought new life back to the songs which gave me the spark again, and reminded me of how I felt when I first wrote these songs 

What is your top networking tip for connecting with the right people in music e..g a manager or a record label?

If you are your authentic true self, the right people will naturally gravitate towards you. Take note of those who cross your path, because it’s most likely for a reason. One thing that always sticks with me is what I was told that everyone you meet has something to teach you

What's your favorite/least favorite thing about making music?

I love everything about the making of the music, the thing I don’t like is the pressure of money and time 

3 artists you’re currently listening to

Mansur Brown, Bas, Famtoumata Diawara 

3 things you can't live without in your bag

Lip balm, sunglasses, Gucci guilty 

Tips for finding your creativity on a tough day

Go for a walk, then use voicenotes 

Your top advice for new music producers/singer-songwriters etc as an emerging artist

Follow your gut, listen to your intuition and your own voice. Just be yourself and connect with people who make you happy and bring out the best in you 

Artist Spotlight: Cosha

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Born in Indiana and raised in Ireland, Cosha grew up surrounded by music. Her father was a drummer, her mother a singer, and her older brother introduced her to the UK's underground scenes. “I liked performing from a really young age,” Cosha recalls. She began writing music at nine, encouraged by her godmother. Cosha honed her songwriting skills, touring Dublin's pubs as a teen before moving to London, where she immersed herself in electronic and dance music.

Cosha is no stranger to the music industry. The singer-songwriter-producer has toured the world playing festivals from Coachella to Primavera to Glastonbury, collaborated with the likes of Shygirl, Coby Sey and Koreless and lent her pop pen to artists such as Charli XCX and Mura Masa, as well as releasing her critically-acclaimed debut solo record Mt. Pleasant in 2021, produced with Rostam Batmangalij (Solange, Frank Ocean) and Emile Haynie (SZA, Lana Del Rey, FKA Twigs).

In the worlds of fashion and art, she’s soundtracked two Sinead O'Dwyer shows at London Fashion Week, and been synced by Dior and Victoria’s Secret. She’s had featured write ups in the likes of Vogue, i-D, Interlope Magazine, The Guardian, Billboard, Dazed, Crack, Schön and The Sunday Times, while also collecting co-signs from Bjork, Arca, Clairo and Mary Anne Hobbs. “Cosha paints a picture characterised as much by unflinching vulnerability as by soulful optimism, with the rawness of the emotional insights it provides accentuated by the potent frankness of her voice” - i-D 

Her new EP, MurMurs, explores grief and renewal, with tracks like ‘Fire Me Up’ and ‘Sun Back’ capturing her emotional journey and blending vulnerability with optimism. Throughout the project, nature imagery grounds the listener, offering a therapeutic experience. “I like making music to put a call out into the world,” says Cosha, hoping her work can be a source of comfort and connection for others.

Can you tell us more about the inspiration behind your latest project "MurMurs"?

So "MurMurs" was kind of like my little chrysalis moment where I was in my shell trying to work through a shift in atmosphere, to mould into the new person that would be and eventually come out of that shell as a butterfly, which is where I am right now.

When I was making MurMurs, I was very much in that cocoon, trying to work through a lot of big changes. For anyone who's going through some big changes, or just in general, maybe life is a bit tricky, and you need some motivation, these songs may resonate with you. This was me trying to motivate myself and realize how beautiful life can be and spread that message.

Were there any memorable moments during the recording process?

I started the beat for Fire Me Up on the plane from London to LA, I had to just left my partner and the home we built together & I was subletting from a friend while I worked things out. I went to Joshua tree with two friends/ producers to make some music. We started looking at Fire Me Up, but the breakup was still so raw & I kept choking up trying to sing the lyrics (eventually I got a full take out & that’s the one on the record) - but the boys were so tender & caring with me, they consoled me and supported me through the day and then make us all a bbq :)

In recent years, you've undergone significant personal and artistic transformations, including leaving behind your major record label and management. How have these changes influenced your approach to creating music?

It really meant that for the first time since I started making music, I had absolutely no safety net. Absolutely no team. It was just me. I've done this whole project self managed, self funded, self promoted, did all the creative direction etc which was very scary when I first was looking at it, trying to figure out how I would get it done. But now that I'm at the other side of it, I'm really proud of what I made. It's been really important for me to see the boundlessness of my tenacity, to see how I can show up for myself. It's really important for me now even just in my career, but as a person growing in life. It's been nice to know that anything is possible. You can get through anything. They'll always be light at the end of the tunnel.

Could you tell us about your approach to songwriting?

I like making music while I’m travelling, on planes or trains ect. I like that there’s no Wi-Fi distraction & there’s an end point. I usually start ideas on GarageBand then transfer them into ableton. Making beats on my phone in GarageBand just feels like a game and is more fun for me, I want making music to stay fun even though it’s my job.

What's your favorite/least favorite thing about making music?

Least favourite- Mixing. I worked with fantastic mix engineers who made the process as good as it could be but it just kills the music for me a little having to listen to it with a mix ear in mind.

Favourite- getting into that unconscious free space where things just flow out of you uninterrupted, like you almost black out for a moment and go somewhere else, it’s so relaxing & satisfying when you can get there.

Describe your morning routine

I do a 10 minute gratitude meditation, a 5 minute stretch with a hot water and lemon. Then I cycle to the gym, workout, quick sauna, a cold shower & sing in the shower.

Your top advice for young people wanting to become singer-songwriters.

Stay silly when you’re writing - try not to think about wether something is good or not, save the nit picking for later down the line & just enjoy the expression. If you’re releasing your own music - your opinion is the most important one, if you love it & your excited by it, then that’s all the matters!

3 artists you’re listening to right now 

Cartola. Björk. Cindy Lee

  • Interview by ninakeh for shesaid.so

Artist Spotlight: MËSTIZA

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Spanish DJ/producer duo MËSTIZA have created a fusion sound that blends electronic music and the origins of Flamenco with African, Arabic, and Latin rhythms.

After more than 10 years of DJing separately, they decided to join forces to explore their roots and create a new experience for their audience through their own branded event named SACRO - where live musicians and professional dancers join them on stage.

Their debut album, QUËRELES was released a few months ago under their own record label Sacro Music. ‘QUËRELES’ is a harmonious fusion of flamenco roots and sophisticated electronics.

The duo collaborated with flamenco and roots artists Reyes Carrasco on the track ‘ESTRELLA,’ Argentina on ‘LÁGRIMAS,’ Chambao on ‘MIS OJOS,’ and emerging talent Jose del Curro on ‘SOLEÁ DE LAS CAVILACIONES.’ Additionally, they join forces with Aaron Sevilla for the track ‘EL FLAMENCO.’

Your debut album 'QUËRELES' features collaborations with traditional flamenco vocalists as well as avant-garde electronic music artists. Can you share some insights into the creative process?

We are very proud to have collaborated with all the artists that appear on the album. They have given us musical ideas outside the context of electronic music production and that gives a lot of meaning to an album that talks about fusion. In the process, we have worked with them on different flamenco concepts adapted to our style and this has been the best part of the musical creative process of the album.

How did the idea of fusing electronic music with traditional Flamenco elements come about?

Traditional Spanish music is in itself a fusion of different cultures, for example Hindu and Arabic. That is why, when we were inspired by flamenco, we had to take into account the idea of ​​the fusion of music from the beginning.

If you had to create a mixtape that represents MËSTIZA's musical journey so far, which three tracks from 'QUËRELES' would be essential?

Compañera: This song is a representation of our relationship. It’s about friendship and sorority between women, and that has been the basis of our project.

Soleá de las cavilaciones: We loved the creative process of this song, and we collaborated with a great flamenco artist, José del Curro.

La tarara: The lyrics are from a very old Spanish children's song that our grandmothers sang and that we remember with great affection.

Can you share a source of inspiration that played a role in making music?

For us, a creative moment can occur in any circumstance, but above all we are inspired by cinema, fashion, listening to music or going to art exhibitions. Depending on the project we look for more references in one area or another, but we certainly believe that it is very important to leave the comfort zone and find other artistic worlds to do something original.

Your visual presentation is striking. Does fashion play a role in MËSTIZA's identity?

From the beginning of the project we knew that not only music was important, we wanted to create a project that offered something more than music, so we turned to our background in fashion based on the references of our folklore but reinterpreting it today.

How do you stay grounded and focused on your music on a challenging day? 

Normally we wake up in a hotel and we usually work or have meetings with our team, then we usually work on music production and in the afternoon we train but we used to have time to visit the city.

There is an incredible and mysterious force on the stage that pushes you to do your best. We have sometimes been sick or simply had a bad day, but when we go out to the booth, we have become other people. Being an artist is a very big responsibility that you have to deal with to always give the best show to your audience.

When you're doing what you love, how do you feel inside?

There is always a moment, especially when we are DJing, when we realize how much people enjoy our music, and that moment is what gives meaning to everything we do, and we feel proud of ourselves. We have been working in the industry for more than ten years, and it has taken us a lot of effort to get to where we are, but just for these moments where you realize that you make people happy, it is all worth it.

Finally, do you have any advice for young people wanting to become music producers/DJs?

Have an identity, be consistent daily and believe a lot in yourself.

Connect with MËSTIZA

Artist Spotlight: Salle

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Nigerian artist Salle has amassed a growing fan base with her debut track "Icon," which gained viral attention on TikTok and Spotify. Following the success of the song, Salle released her second single, 'Countdown.'

Produced by Monro and mixed by JAE5, 'Countdown' serves as a preview of Salle's upcoming debut EP. The song is a reflective exploration of impermanence and the significance of embracing the present. Salle's vocals dazzle on this track, cementing her status as an emerging talent worth keeping an eye on.

How did your viral street performance in Lagos influence your decision to pursue music professionally?

It made me grow passionate about music as I’ve neglected and never believed in my talent, after the video went viral I Dre so much strength from everyone who supported me and believed in me.

What 1 valuable lesson have you learned as an emerging artist?

One valuable lesson I’ve learned as an artist is not to acknowledge any kind of pressure whatsoever. It’s me versus me and I’m doing my best to be the best version of myself.

What is your top advice for new music artists 

Be yourself, acknowledge every feeling and every experience you may meet positive or negative and in all improve your craft it’s the only thing that makes us artists.

If you could collaborate with any artist, who would it be and why?

I’d love to collaborate with lots of amazing artist but since I have to pick one off my list it’ll be “Rema” because of his mysterious tune that I enjoy.

Can you share a favorite moment from your journey in the music industry so far?

A favorite moment from my journey in the music industry so far will be the when I put out “ICON” it was the most liberating and remarkable so far.

What are your goals for the future as you continue to pursue your music career?

My goal for the future is to keep improving in my sound and in all aspect of my life.

3 things I can’t live without in my bag

Sunglasses, perfume and cash.

Artist Spotlight: Kelly Moran

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Kelly Moran, shot by Brandon Bowen

New York-based composer and producer Kelly Moran has spent the past decade challenging traditional piano conventions with an experimental approach.

Moran has collaborated with artists such as Oneohtrix Point Never and FKA Twigs, composing for classical musician Margaret Leng Tan and working with contemporaries like Kelsey Lu and Yves Tumor. Her solo albums, "Bloodroot" and "Ultraviolet," have explored extended piano techniques and received critical acclaim across various genres.

Her upcoming album, "Moves in the Field," moves away from prepared piano techniques and instead focuses on a more experimental use of the instrument, similar to her previous work on "Ultraviolet."

The inspiration for "Moves in the Field" originated from Moran's experience composing a piano duet with Missy Mazzoli in early 2020. During this collaboration, Yamaha Music loaned her a Disklavier—a state-of-the-art player piano, capable of surpassing human capabilities in composition.

During the pandemic, Moran began composing with the Disklavier as her duet partner in isolation. The duets between Moran and the Yamaha Disklavier embody her pursuit of both technical precision and emotional resonance, creating an interplay between human performance and the Disklavier's automation, resulting in multi-layered compositions.

Influenced by both classical minimalism and contemporary electronic music, "Moves in the Field" serves as a bridge between two distinct musical worlds. Mixed and recorded by Dan Bora (known for his collaborations with Philip Glass), and mastered by Joshua Eustis of Telefon Tel Aviv, the album exemplifies Moran's bold artistic vision and technical prowess.

"Moves in the Field" marks a departure from Moran's previous works, positioning her in a compositional league of her own. The album explores themes of humanity versus technology and the interplay between technicality and musicality. Released under Warp Records, it firmly establishes Kelly Moran as a leading figure in modern music.

What sparked your transition from prepared piano to the Disklavier piano, and how did it inspire the new direction for "Moves in the Field"?

My last record was music for prepared piano and electronics that was based heavily in improvisation. When I set out to make a new record, I intended to make another album exploring prepared piano, but this time with more repetitive song structures and loop-based grooves to evolve the rhythmic feel of the previous record. All the music from Ultraviolet was so loose and unmetered, and I wanted to create music people could dance to. But unfortunately after I began writing the record in this direction, I became bored and uninspired by the prepared piano because the pandemic hit. I needed fresh inspiration to feel motivated, and working with the familiar sound of the prepared piano wasn’t doing it for me.

Around this time, Yamaha loaned me a disklavier player piano, and it provided a new way for me to compose and interact with the piano. I suddenly had a flood of new ideas that I wanted to explore, and it was then when I decided to abandon the prepared piano music and head in a fresh direction. 

The album title draws a connection to skating rudiments. How does this thematic element tie into the music and what role did the Disklavier play in bringing these movements to life?

I started figure skating as a hobby a few years ago, and all skaters learn basic patterns to master control over your blade edge. These patterns are called Moves in the Field, as the ice rink is often referred to as the field. You’re supposed to practice small simple patterns so you can build up your skills to achieve more intricate, difficult moves. I saw a lot of parallels in the process of learning to skate and learning how to play music - moves in the field are like scales and arpeggios for musicians.

When I started working with the disklavier, I would often record a simple pattern and then complicate it by adding layers, so it reminded me a lot of the practice of building up skating skills so you can skate more difficult elements.

How did you use the Disklavier in these compositions?

A Disklavier is a player piano that allows you to record your performance and have the piano play it back with expressive and dynamic accuracy. It uses an advanced system of MIDI to translate the touch of a pianist to MIDI information and have the playback sound identical to the performance that was played into it.

One of my favorite aspects of working with this piano is being able to listen to my music being played on the piano from the listener’s perspective. As a pianist, I can be very emotional and get swept up in the music I’m playing because it feels so good physically. But this doesn’t always sound the best from the listener’s perspective - some songs need more sensitivity and control, and I wouldn’t realize this if I weren’t able to listen back to my playing the way the disklavier plays back my performances. 

Did you encounter any challenges or revelations during the compositional process?

When working with a player piano, it’s very tempting to want to over-correct in the editing process. You have the ability to record a take and then delete all your wrong notes, or correct your dynamics. But the more you edit your playing, the less human it sounds, and I had to find a middle ground between perfection and expression.

Moves in the Field seems to bridge classical minimalism with modernized and synthesized textures found in electronic music. How did you balance these influences?

I like to write a lot of dancey patterns that might be found in techno or other dance music - I was working a lot with my synth arpeggiator on early versions of the music. It was fun sending these MIDI patterns to an acoustic piano because it’s the kind of music I would never physically play on the piano, but still sounds very satisfying to listen to. I used a sub bass as the only non-piano sound on the album just to add a bit of weight to the low end because I wanted to keep the focus on the purity of the acoustic piano sound.

The album is mixed and recorded by Dan Bora, known as Philip Glass' sound engineer. How did this collaboration impact the overall sound of Moves in the Field?

Philip Glass has been a huge inspiration for me as a composer and his music always sounds incredible. Because this record is more reliant on the acoustic piano sound and less on electronic elements (than a low of my past works) I wanted to try to work with an engineer who was very experienced in mixing classical music. Dan was extremely thorough and mathematical in his mixing, which is very different from my approach, but I learned so much from him about all the little ways you can make a piano sound better on a recording!

Kelly Moran, shot by Brandon Bowen

Does this album mark a departure from your previous works, defining a new sound? 

It doesn’t feel like a total departure to me, honestly. I’ve made a lot of records and most of them exist in their own unique sound world. This record felt like going back to my roots as a pianist, because piano was the first instrument I ever learned and so much of my experience as a composer has been about combining the piano with other sounds, or manipulating its sound in some way. I tried to restrain myself in some way by working only with the acoustic, natural sound of the piano as the main basis for the pieces, instead of relying on electronic or synthesized sounds.

As a musician, do you draw inspiration from other genres?

I listen to a lot of music, and most of it is not in the vein of music I write. I think I get most of my inspiration from artists who make music completely different to what I make. 

How do you tap into your creativity on particularly tough days?

Get out of your house, get your body moving. I like going on runs to clear my head and reset my energy. Make contact with a friend if you’ve been home alone all day. Even though I make most of my music alone, I don’t recommend letting yourself get too isolated from the world. It’s important to connect with other people and find purpose outside of your own creative practice.

What’s your top advice for artists who want to enter this industry?

In order to pursue music for a living, it has to be your main passion. I never allowed myself to entertain the possibility of doing anything but music for a living because I knew I would be miserable. You have to be in it for the right reasons.


  • Interview by ninakeh for shesaid.so

Moves in the Field is out now on Warp Records

Artist Spotlight: Crystal Murray

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Crystal Murray, Photo by Ottilie Landmark

Parisian musician Crystal Murray has achieved notable success in her music career. She founded her own label, Spin Desire, providing a platform for up-and-coming artists. Additionally, she kickstarted a residency and club night at the renowned Paris venue, Silencio, and has appeared in campaigns for Vogue, Dazed, Paco Rabanne, and Diesel.

But with teenage years intertwined with the industry, Crystal felt stifled. “I got pushed in the ‘neo soul’ direction,” she says. “I was contending with this cliche of the ‘neo-soul woman’ – she's a Black girl with an afro. loved it, but it scared me too. At 16, I was trying to fit a box that wasn't mine – I wanted to rock shit out too.”

Emerging as a mercurial star with the 2020 EP "I Was Wrong," she expanded neo-soul boundaries with mature lyricism. Her 2021 hit "BOSS" and the 2022 EP "Twisted Bases" showcase her evolution in themes of messy relationships and vulnerability.

Crystal declared her revenge in the fierce song "PAYBACK," a preview of her debut album, Sad Lovers And Giants. At 22, Crystal rejects expectations, emphasizing a move towards authenticity in her music, described as tragic, theatrical, and cinematic.

Accompanying the album announcement is a visually stunning Charlotte Wales-directed music video for the new single "STARMANIAK" (out now), described as an anthem for those who feel walked over. Crystal is also set to host a special night at Beaubeaus, London in association with shesaid.so.

As Crystal embarks on this new phase of her career, the album promises to be a transformative experience, weaving together her lived experiences and offering a powerful narrative of emotional strength and release.

Your latest single, "STARMANIAK," addresses the challenges women face in today's society. Can you share more about the inspiration behind this song?

I wanted to highlights the struggles and challenges that many women face in today's society, particularly the pervasive issue of being over-sexualized, disrespected, and mistreated. My acknowledgment of the toxicity that some individuals, can perpetuate is important. Im talking about my own experiences but also shedding light on broader societal issues that need to be addressed.

What was it like collaborating with Charlotte Wales on the music video?

It was amazing, the idea of doing something bizarre came from Stephy Galvani my artistic director and myself. The song came from somewhere so pure and real that I didn’t want to make a visual just to look good, we wanted something that makes you uncomfortable and makes you re-watch the video to understand where it comes from. We pitched the idea to Charlotte and she brought it to a whole other level, that was visual, smart and slick.

Was there a memorable moment during the creation of your debut album, SAD LOVERS & GIANTS?

The whole making of the album was a moment really, when I’m focusing on something I enter this tunnel in my head and can’t get out. It was a lot of soul searching, rage turned to maturity, answers. It was a whole awakening for me. I think something really changed when Kyu Steed came in, I had worked for a little year already but it really helped me find the right direction for it.

What's your top networking tip to connect with a record label?

Mmmm, I think really try to understand if they understand your work and your vision. Ask yourself if you’re ready or if you need a little more time without a label. Cause once you have a whole team, to have the result you need, you need to know exactly where you want to go.

What's your favourite/least favourite thing about making music?

My favourite thing is going on stage, I love the connection I get to have with the public and my musicians and that’s where I really find answers, it’s like therapy for me. And I know exactly why Im making music, I love it.

My least favourite thing is promoting my work. I find it sometimes hard to explain 2 years of work through few questions - and answers, it can get a bit frustrating. Sometimes it feels a bit meaningless. When you try to make it as clear as possible in your music and visuals and give 100% of your emotions in it. But It’s a part of the game, I guess.

How do you overcome creative blocks?

By surrounding myself with the right minds, I believe if you federate yourself around beautifully artistic people, your creative mind will always flow. Being in an environment where people appreciate and engage in artistic expression can help stimulate your imagination and encourage innovative thinking. I always try to surround myself with people or circles where I feel energized and inspired by the creativity around me.

Tips for musicians/songwriters who are just starting in the industry?

Follow your guts, and surround yourself with the right people who understand where you want to go. And really have fun with your music, we do this for art, for emotions, for feelings. If you’re doing it for something else just don’t do it.

3 women that influenced your music

ESG, this group of women that really made me get out of my comfort zone, on stage I always had this punk rock energy and could never find it in the studio. ESG made me get this part out of me.

Ouri riou is an artist, musician, and producer that worked on my album. I really love her because I would start some songs and she would finish them with such warmth, we would finish with some really crazy pop/ rock songs but with so much air and light.

And Macy Gray will always be my one and only (since I was a little girl).

3 things you can't live without in your bag

My vogues, my block note, my swords ( I have these little silver swords, they’re very tiny) they’re my lucky charms. Everything is little cause I like little bags lol.

STARMANIAK Out Now

PRE-ORDER THE ALBUM “SAD LOVERS AND GIANTS”,

OUT MAY 31st

CRYSTAL MURRAY & SHESAID.SO 

Presents STARMANIAK RELEASE PARTY

In conversation with Charlotte Wales 

Plus live performances (Crystal Murray) & DJ sets (Emma Korantema, Broodooramses)

BeauBeaus 4 - 6 Gravel Lane, E1 7AW

The event is free but guests must RSVP via this link.

Panel discussion will start at 6:30 pm sharp so make sure you are there to grab your seat.

Artist Spotlight: Merry Lamb Lamb

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Hong Kong-born, London-based musician Merry Lamb Lamb has crafted a distinctive and vibrant artistic identity. Her trilingual music weaves together English, Cantonese, and Mandarin, each language revealing a different facet of her personality.

Growing up in Hong Kong and later moving to Toronto, Merry Lamb Lamb faced the challenges of being one of the few East Asian students. Encouraged by her now-creative director, Lung, Merry taught herself Ableton and began her musical journey.

Genesis, her 2022 debut album, explored eclectic '80s pop and thumping house, while its follow-up, Exodus, took a bolder, more club-oriented direction. Beyond her musical talent, Merry Lamb Lamb's visual arts background attracted collaborations with Gucci, Moschino, Chanel, and Acne Studios.

Merry Lamb Lamb joined forces with Miso Extra, and aimei 媚 to create their electronic pop gem, 'Better' - a track expressing resilience after heartbreak, which carries a message of optimism for the future.

The project emerged from a 3-day writing camp organized by Platoon’s 'She Runs The Board,' shesaid.so, and ESEA Music. The project highlights the East and South East Asian music community's female producers, songwriters, and engineers, aiming to elevate and increase visibility for women in the industry.

What's your new song “Better” with Miso Extra & aimei 媚 about and what do you hope listeners take from it?

The song is about a failed relationship that you once spend and you thought that they are going to be the love of your life. You started to get very deep into them and they have been very manipulative and toxic. The worst part is that you feel like you're starting to lose yourself. So you want to get out of this relationship, and to be better without them basically.

I think the song is so special to me, because sometimes life is not about love. There are friends and family that will always be rooting for you, they will always support you. The song “Better” is just not solely dealing with this person, just that. It’s to realise that you have a fragile side of yourself, and you're capable to face your past and to learn from the lessons you have, and to be strong and independent and to be better without them. I think this is “Better” for me.

Name one artist that has influenced you and your music.

When I first started music production, I looked up to Grimes a lot. I remember that I saw one of her performance videos - she was performing her song ‘Oblivion’ on YouTube at one of the very big festivals. I was blown away because she was controlling everything all by herself, from drum machines to synthesisers and to singing and dancing with her dancers. It's just the fact that she does everything herself - from music production to music videos. The DIY style and the way she works with everything is just so admirable and I looked up her a lot. I hope that one day Merry Lamb Lamb could be very strong and independent like her.

If you had to pick one song to introduce someone to music, which one would it be?

I think a very good introduction song to Merry Lamb Lamb’s world will definitely be ‘Empathy’ because I just love talking about a lot of my soft spot to people. These are really common topics that I asked myself a lot growing up as a person.

The song is about feeling very misplaced everytime, from moving from place to place. Sometimes, I wanted to seek for help, maybe just one hug. "I felt very lonely and left out sometimes. I love how the song's (vibe) is so different because the music is so dancey, yet it has very vulnerable lyrics, which I love. What I love about dance music, it's just how it pulls up your heartstrings so much. It just gives you the power to dance to it and listen to it from a club situation, to a long ride solitudes. This is ‘Empathy’ for you.

What’s your top tip for artists who want to follow this industry?

It is very important to not to be afraid to put up sounds that you feel they are not 100% to perfection. To me, there's no such thing as 100% perfect song. As a musician, you will grow day by day and you will learn from mistakes. When you put out songs, listeners do actually love honesty and rawness from music that you've done, music that will feel real about you. So don't be afraid to put out songs.

When you start to write more and you look back to what you have produced or what wrote in the past, you will be like “oh, actually, I’ve been through that faze and I'm glad that I put out the song at that certain time”. You will feel more grown up. You will realise what you’ve been through from the beginning to now. As a musician, it’s a very beautiful thing to know your past and to be honest to people.

‘Better’ is out 16th February 2024

Connect with:

Merry Lamb Lamb

Miso Extra

aimei 媚

ESEA Music & Platoon

Artist Spotlight: Belle Chen

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Belle Chen is a pianist and composer that skillfully blends piano melodies with synths, creating a seamless fusion of acoustic and electronic music.

Belle released the single 'Three Birds', as a preview of her upcoming album, "Ravel In The Forest," set to be released on February 16, 2024, through Platoon. The album, inspired by nature and created as an imaginative world through music, invites listeners on a journey filled with richly cinematic, ethereal compositions.

The album's production involves a collaboration with the Budapest Art Orchestra in tracks like 'Closer' and 'Moonrise,' showcasing Belle's diverse and intriguing approach to music creation. 'Ravel In The Forest' defies categorization, providing a refreshing experience that reconnects audiences with nature, music, and introspection.

Your new album, 'Ravel In The Forest,' takes listeners on a journey through nature and imagination. Can you share more about the inspiration behind it?

My new album Ravel In The Forest was inspired by the feeling of losing oneself in your imagination while being in nature. So in this album, you’ll hear textures and colors and sounds that were inspired by the movements and the colous of the flora and fauna found in forests.

Could you provide some insights into your classical training and its influence on your work, particularly when blending contemporary and electronic music? How did your classical background play a role in shaping the sound of this album?

My classical training is like the foundation that I build my own music language upon. And for me, it's like a big dictionary that I can draw words from to tell my own musical story. In this particular album (Ravel in the Forest), I draw inspirations from the approaches of Impressionist composers such as Maurice Ravel, and how they evoke certain feelings through the use of colors, light and shade and combining that approach with the technology that we have today, through the use of synths and production technique to create this whimsical, imaginative world that's this new album.

Making music for me is a very intuitive process. I'm always guided by the end feeling of what I want to create for the listeners. And in this journey to get there I would explore the different options and textures and colors that's available, and are the most appropriate to create this end feeling. Sometimes I find it through classical approach and sometimes I find it through more electronica kind of approach. Sometimes it's a hybrid, so it's never really the same.

The concept of 'Ravel In The Forest' seems deeply connected to nature and introspection. How do you believe music can serve as a medium for self-reflection and connection to the world around us?

For me, music is a really important medium for self reflection and introspection, because I think it creates this pocket of time and space to be really with yourself, and be really honest with how you're feeling and seeing the world. And in a way, music can also be a shared experience.

When a musician shares a piece of music with a world, we're actually sharing a part of how we see the world and our perspective as well.

And when two people share what they're listening to is similar; they're sharing how they see the world. It is a moment and a medium for connection, as well as self reflection.

As an artist who has performed globally, can you share a memorable moment from your performances at venues like the Royal Albert Hall’s Steinway Series and the National Theatre of Korea?

My most memorable moments when I'm performing happens when I feel like I'm in sync with the audience. You can feel the energy coming back in and I feel like we're on a journey together. And I feel like I'm getting to know them on a very deep and personal level. And so those are the most fun and memorable moments for me.

Your journey includes being recognized as an Associate of the Royal Academy of Music in London and being a Yamaha artist. How have these affiliations influenced your growth as a musician?

I'm hugely grateful for the affiliations. I think both the academy and Yamaha has played such important roles in my musical DNA and in my journey so far, and to be able to partner with Yamaha on special projects especially has made a big difference.

What does your morning routine look like?

My morning routines are usually done in silence and solitude. That's where I think most clearly and my best and usually that involves meditation, reading, journaling, and then plotting up my day with a good cup of coffee before getting started.

Your tips for finding your creativity on a tough day

So when I'm having a tough day, I usually time box an hour or so to create as freely as possible. And usually that involves sitting in front of the piano and improvising and recording that on the voice memo. I think it is done without any intention, without any pressure. And then I'll step away go for a walk around the block clear my mind. And usually on these days I try to be gentle with myself and kind with myself, because some things just take time and sometimes it takes longer, and that's okay to take longer.

Artist Spotlight: Samantha Urbani

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Samantha Urbani is the artist behind the debut LP "Showing Up." From her rebellious roots in Mystic, Connecticut, to conquering Brooklyn's DIY scene with Friends in 2010, Samantha's journey is anything but ordinary.

After her old group “Friends” disbanded in 2013, Samantha chose collaboration over solo stardom, joining “Blood Orange” and diving into various projects. Tragedy struck in 2018 with the loss of close friend and producer Sam Mehran, propelling her into a six-month hiatus.

Nick Weiss, aka Nightfeelings, who pulled her back into music and sparked the creative process for "Showing Up."Co-produced by Samantha and Weiss, the album captures her spontaneous spirit. With contributions from friends like Rostam Batmanglij and Stuart Matthewman, it's a celebration of resilience and creative resurgence.

Want do you want people to get out of your new album ‘Showing Up”?

“Showing Up” that just came out is the health and the power of multiple feelings coexisting at once. There are lyrics and movements and music about a lot of really hard things. Heartbreak and alienation and mental health stuff and really close friends and family dying. And all of that is on this album. But on first listen, you might not know because a lot of it has very sick grooves. And a lot of it is quite danceable. And that was all very intentional. Because I think when you mute multiple feelings and truths existing at once is something that is really powerful to embrace. I think I was I went through a lot of hard things before the making of this album.

And for a while I was writing a lot of songs that really sounded sad. And I knew that that wasn't the way that I wanted to present these experiences. I wanted to find a way to make music that felt cathartic and joyful, and connective and energetic, almost like the breakthrough of celebrating survival through those things versus sitting in the pain of those things. I think that you can still honour the pain of those things. Feeling like a breakthrough or a sense of survival. I want this record to be the upbeat companion for anybody who's having a fucking hard time and anybody who's experiencing grief. Anybody who's had a really close friend leave, you know, this this existence. I want the record to be a companion that feels cathartic and feels optimistic, but also is like a witness to those kinds of experiences.

What’s your top advice to songwriters?

First of all, I think that we need to take these titles off of a pedestal, you don't need to think about yourself as an “aspiring songwriter”, or an aspiring artist, you are an artist, you are a songwriter. Trust your instincts, get in touch with that thread of unique insight and perspective that you have versus being a student, of how other people do their thing. I also always tell people not to let what kind of equipment or education, they have access to stop them from getting ideas down. I talk to a lot of people who are like, Oh, I have ideas for songs. But I don't play a lot of instruments. I don't know how to make a demo. I’m not where I want to be as a producer or something.

Don't let those ideas get away, because you think that they need to be represented more professionally or traditionally. I think that making weird little voice memos, kind of like… scrappy demos, in GarageBand, or whatever you have often is way more interesting and more authentic and cool than if you wait and find an engineer or somebody to help you do it in what you might think is the right way.

Don't let a lack of equipment or knowledge stop you from getting ideas down. Or make you think that your ideas aren't real, because you're not like “a real musician”, or there's something. I think a lot of stuff that's done really properly or traditionally can be boring. So yeah, mess around with whatever it is that you have.

Everybody who has an iPhone, or a MacBook has GarageBand on their phone, or laptop. That's actually how I started making demos for my old band. I had a lot of vocal ideas and melodies. I think if I had waited to do it ‘the right way’, I don't know if I would have ever done it. I started just recording all my vocal ideas to drum loops. And I had ideas for baselines, and I would just sing them and pitch them down. And I had ideas for synth lines, and I'd sing them and pitch them up.

I was a college student in a shitty small bedroom in New York doing that, and it turned into a successful band. So I always try to tell people not to look down on their ideas, because they think that they're not like a real musician. What the fuck does that mean? What does it mean? Just make stuff the same way that you can pick up a pencil on a piece of paper and draw. Pick up whatever you have and get your idea down. And if you want to collaborate with other people on it. That's awesome. I think it's like a very fun, cool, strong thing to do to find your collaborators. But it's great to approach them with a representation of what you want to make. So don't be scared to to make things from scratch and do things in your homemade way.

What has been the most rewarding part of my journey so far?

It's crazy, amazing, beautiful when you travel to parts of the world that you've never been to before, and you play a show, and there are people in the audience singing words that you made up in your bedroom. That is an incredible feeling, especially when those people are not only just reciting them back to you, it's like, they're this mirror, where the emotional thing that you were feeling that you put into words is actually something amazing. As a musician or a writer, that's definitely just seeing things translate and feeling that maybe you could do that for people in the same way that your favourite musicians have done that for you throughout your life.

But as far as my music journey at large, I have loved just time going by and getting a little bit older and being able to sort of be like a big sister figure to people who are at the age that I was when I started making music, any kind of like professional sense.People feel they're supposed to be anxious about getting older or time going by but to me, it's something that is so valuable and beautiful and can't be faked. It can't be rushed.

Having a length of experience that continues and grows is so special to me and being able to realise that I want to pursue more avenues than just making music but also working in music as I did a year I worked for an agile at. I worked for a year as an adjunct professor at NYU mentoring songwriting and production students. And now I work as an A&R at Secretly Group, discovering artists, developing artists, helping advocate for artists on the inside of a company like that. Just finding ways that it feels all of my experience matters good and bad. All the bad experiences that I had throughout my 20s I feel I've found a way to channel those things to really mean something for other people.

Sometimes in the moment, when things are either going good or bad, it's hard to see the value in them and it does take time for things to review reveal sort of their, their meaning or their value. Being able to sort of be like a shoulder and a voice of reason and a big sister and a mentor or whatever to people now is so fun and valuable to me. I wish I had somebody like that when I was younger. To be able to be a support system for other people is amazing.

Things you can't live without in your bag.

  1. A notebook. But not a regular notebook. It has to be a notebook that is like a monthly calendar kind of thing for the year because I really don't do well with Google Calendar. Only remember that I have to do things if I break them down. And also lyrics and stuff like that. I think I'm a lot more creative when there's some tactility to my actual writing and you can physically cross things out or you can kind of keep building by adding words to things. I just feel like there's a tactility to words themselves even the sounds that words make and especially as singers, vocalist, lyricist, whatever. There can be a disconnect in the tactility of words, if you're typing them. You can actually feel the shape of words when you're writing out letters in the same way that you can feel the shape of them in your mouth. That makes sense. No, that's crazy.

  2. What else do I like to have in my bag? I also shades because sometimes you need to be incognito. I often, go to coffee places or get food by myself. You have to kind of be in your own little forcefield world. So shades for sure.

  3. My phone? I hate to say it but how else are we going to record voice memos. I did use to have a cassette recorder and maybe that's cooler. I do like to talk about anti social media. It's nice to have mediums of recording that will also distract you with all the other bullshit that's on your phone.

  4. But maybe most importantly; two types of cards, a regular classic deck of cards, and a deck of monopoly deal. I've been playing cards, especially in the morning with another person. It’s a very centering thing that just feels really meditative. I used to use tarot cards a lot, but now I like to play Monopoly deal. I highly recommend it as something that’s slightly escapist, but not as bad as sprawling bad things.

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Artist Spotlight: Nonô

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We are excited to feature Nonô for this month’s Artist Spotlight. The London-based artist from Rio, Brazil, has been described by NME as "a rising talent ready to become your new favourite artist”.

Nonô has over 200 million streams and has been championed on BBC Radio 1, with notable press support from NME 100, CLASH and Line Of Best Fit. Her single 'Domingo' heated up the summer with her club mix of dance-pop and Brazilian vibes.

Can you share a memorable experience that has significantly influenced your music?

A memorable experience that definitely has shaped my music is going on tour supporting ‘Example’ in 2022. That experience of being on stage every day really taught me a lot about what kind of music I wanted to make and how I wanted to make people feel - because it's a such a high pace energy environment that I just wanted everyone to have fun. I wanted that feeling of the live shows to translate into my music or everything that I was creating.

So after the shows I knew exactly where I wanted to go with my music; how to turn up the BPM, or to make (my music) more electronic. I feel that my shows are my favourite part of doing music. So yeah, definitely going on tour was the most memorable experience that has influenced my music

What's the one piece of advice you wish you had received when you were just starting out as a singer and songwriter?

A piece of advice that I would give to emerging artists is something that I'm also trying to tell myself. It just gets a lot, you know, when you're creating every day, and then you're also having to create content every day. And besides the songs, the marketing the content, you have to stay positive.

So besides not giving up is try to tune out the noise and try not to compare your journey to other people. My whole life, I grew up reading biographies. And something that really hurt me was when I was comparing my journey to all these incredible artists that I had read about growing up. And when your journey isn't going exactly like theirs you start thinking that, Oh, I'm doing something wrong, or it's not going to happen. At least I do that.

I'm pretty sure there's other people out there that might feel the same way; comparing constantly comparing themselves with other people. So if I was to give an advice to anyone that is emerging, is to work hard and to follow their creative dreams. Don't compare yourself. You're on your own path, and everything happens when it’s supposed to happen. The opportunity will come you just have to be ready for it.

What’s the one piece of advice you wish you had received when you were just starting out as a singer and songwriter?

The off days are just as important as the days you’re working. If you don’t allow yourself time to relax then you will end up creating the same song or worse. You might even lose the love for the thing that made you wanna follow this journey.

Building a fanbase and getting noticed in the crowded music scene can be tough. What strategies have you found effective in connecting with your audience?

Playing live shows is the most effective way of connecting with my audience as it’s a real moment! Everybody is there to have a good time plus I can see how they react to songs and in those minutes, we are genuinely forming a connection and our own world.

If you could describe your sound in just three words, what would they be?

Free, Energetic and Vibrant.

What’s the most unexpected thing you’ve learned about yourself since stepping into the music spotlight

I always knew I was a perfectionist but I didn’t know the extent of how deranged I actually am. I will lose sleep over parts of an unfinished song or merch items that I don’t think are 100% right yet.

Describe your morning routine

if I was to describe my morning routine, it's very simple. Very simple. Very easy. Because I wake up in pain, usually because I'm not a morning person. Unfortunately, I'm very much a night person. I want to be a morning person. Don't get me wrong, I appreciate morning people, but I am not.

So I try to wake up at like eight.

I fail. Then I wake up at nine and I have a chocolate milk because I don't drink coffee. Then I start getting ready for the sessions or whatever schedule program that I have in that day.

I usually start by picking out an outfit. I just sit on the floor and contemplate my whole life for like half an hour. And then I choose an outfit. Colorful outfit, usually. Then I go brush my teeth, get my makeup on, do the hair, put on accessories, out the door, I go to the studio.

So a typical day would be going to the studio. I would wake up, have my chocolate milk, brush my teeth, get my makeup on, get the clothes that I'm wearing, colorful accessories, then out the door, run to tube or bus, go to the session, stay in the session write a banger from like eleven until 06:00 p.m..

Or eleven till 07:00 p.m.. Or twelve till six whatever the time that it takes to create a song or two, depending on what we're doing.

If your music was a color, what color would it be and why?

I think it would be bumblebee yellow as I’m always trying to emulate the vibrancy of Brazil in my music so I think yellow/ orange, quite solar tones are very fitting.

3 things you can’t live without in your bag

Walkers crisps, a jumper and my rock salt luck charm.

If you could choose a famous landmark to host the ultimate Nonô beach party, where would it be and why?

I would definitely choose Rio de Janeiro because I'm from Rio. I would choose Copacabana beach because I grew up there. It's a very famous landmark I think everybody that knows a little about Brazil knows about Copacabana. I would throw it in February or March because that's when the vibes in Brazil are at the highest point. Summer is over there so you know it's gonna be hot. And yeah, definitely Copacabana would be the place for the ultimate Nonô beach party!

The Aces' Alisa Ramirez on Music, Identity, and Their Latest Album

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Indie-pop quartet The Aces released their highly-anticipated third studio album, I’ve Loved You For So Long, back in June. Spanning eleven tracks, the record sees the band reflect on their childhood and unpack how their early experiences with closeted love and religious trauma have influenced their relationships, mental health, and identity in the present.

Finding inspiration in the likes of The Cranberries and LCD Soundsystem, The Aces experimented with new styles while remaining authentic to their roots. The early singles caught the attention of tastemakers like KCRW, BBC Radio 1, and KROQ, to name a few, racking up over 12 million streams ahead of today’s release. The band is currently on a global tour supporting their album.

We are thrilled to have Alisa Ramirez from The Aces share invaluable advice and insights for industry newcomers

Hey, what's up, shesaid.so this is Alisa from the Aces, and I'm going to be answering some of your questions today.

What were some of the musical influences that inspired the sound of your latest record?

I'd say a big musical influence for this record was late 80s early 90s Shoegaze. And, kind of the end of New Wave as well as the beginning of Grunge. I feel that was a big thing for us. This record is largely about our teenage years and our youth and how experiences from our teenhood affect our adulthood. So it was very much about timing and kind of leaning into sounds that were really nostalgic to paint the pictures of the past and leaning into sounds that were really futuristic and really modern to paint the stories of our adulthood and our current moment. So I'd say timing and big eras of music - past and present - were really influential for the sound.

How do you overcome creative blocks?

I think having a creative block is really tough, but the best thing for me is just not trying to “beat it over the head”, you know? Just sitting at my studio desk, hoping something comes out. It's kind of a two-way street. If you're showing up to create something, and the Muses aren't showing up, then okay, it's not gonna happen. I think sometimes it just comes to you and it happens. But if you're going through a period where you just feel like you can't get it out or there's nothing inspiring, then I would just say take a break. Go live your life. Go read books, go to museums, explore, go out and meet new people. Just try to just live your life and find inspiration through everyday things and new experiences. That's what I always do. Seems to work.

What’s your top advice for young individuals wanting to become musicians?

I'd say just go for it. It's a lot of work practice. But if you love it, it won't feel like work. Just practice, practice, practice, build your audience, don't take no for an answer and just keep getting better at songwriting and keep getting better at whatever instrument you play. Keep chasing creativity, keep chasing inspiration.

Do you have any pre-show rituals?

Yeah, we do we always huddle up and do like a little mantra, kind of a prayer to the universe, kind of tap in and, and just, you know, ask to have a good show. None of us are very religious, but it's always a good feeling to kind of huddle up and combine our collective energy to put on the best performance we can.

If you could travel back in time to any musical era, which one would it be?

I would probably travel back to the 60s as it was a really exciting time. It was the first time that people were going electric. It was the first time people were talking about sex and mental health in a more forward way. It wasn't this kind of subliminal thing, it was more in your face. It just felt like the first time that music started to get really exciting and have a rebellious element to it, you know what I mean? And not just be kind of centred around like religion and social norms.

Okay, well, those are my answers. Have a good one!

The Aces Third Studio Album I’ve Loved You For So Long is out on Red Bull Records.

Stream The Album Here.

Artist Spotlight: Lucy Tun

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We’re thrilled to spotlight the Burmese/British singer-songwriter, producer and DJ Lucy Tun in this month’s Artist Spotlight.

As LCYTN, she found success with her debut project 'Good Nights Bad Stories' and the glossy trap-influenced forerunning single 'Kulture Klub', which has amassed over half a million Spotify streams. She was also courted by the fashion world, having DJed for the likes of Gucci and ROTATE.

But while her music and coming-of-age story as LCYTN was mired with self-doubt, she returns as Lucy Tun: a confident turning of a new chapter as a woman, artist and storyteller.

Lucy Tun’s ‘adhd images’ taken from her Instagram account (July 10, 2023)

What one thing do you hope your fans will take away from listening to your new EP?

I hope that they get a little piece of me because a lot of the songs are quite personal. This is my first project so there is a lot of vulnerability. I hope that they'll see that and appreciate that, and relate to it. The second thing I hope for them to see or hear or take away is the idea that change is a natural process. It has been a natural process since the beginning of time. We're all changing all the time. It's something that we all go through. Because of that, it's something to not be as fearful about as you grow up.

It's okay that change happens. It's okay to change. It's okay that your friends change. It's okay that your circumstances change. It's okay that your life changes. It's natural. And you're not alone in feeling that way.

How do you balance expressing your personal experiences and emotions through your music?

Well, this project is personal. But there are some songs in there, some elements of my music which I'd say I've moved away from. I've always written about me before that. Now I'm kind of wanting to tell different stories and take influence from people I know, things I've seen, things I've dreamt. And it is also personal. I think it's like accepting that you're going to be vulnerable and you're going to be a bit exposed, and people are going to perceive you in a different way, and you can't control that. You can't control how they perceive your music; that's been really helpful, just letting go of all of that.

Your best advice for young people wanting to become music producers, singers, songwriters?

I think that there are two elements of being a musician. There's the creative part of it, and there's the not-so-creative part; the industry. Some people love being in the industry. They love networking. They love meeting people. They see it as an extension of their creativity. Some musicians hate the industry. They don't like the business side of it and the networking side. They prefer to just make music on their own or with a very small circle and not branch out any further. It can be really overwhelming. There are some musicians who probably feel like it hinders their creative process when you care too much about this side. It's this weird, like, weighing scale of balancing it. And I find that when you're starting out specifically this part, the business side, the industry side, doesn't matter.

You need to focus on finding your sound and what matters to you the most; the music you enjoy making the most. That is the first part that you should only focus on. The music industry side, the business side of things, will come later, and it will come naturally. All you should focus on first is finding your sound. You probably don't need a lot of people to do that. You just need yourself or one or two people that you really trust, and you work with creatively. That's it. Find those people.

If you had to pick one song from your new EP to introduce to your music which would it be and why?

I'd say Kulture Klub. Kulture Klub is my pop banger. It's my baby, you know? I'd love to show off my baby and be like, hey, here's my baby. It's a very cute, very poppy baby. Here you go.

If your album was a color, what color would it be and why?

Ultramarine blue or that royal blue. I feel that deep blue color is a primary colour. It feels so intense and grandiose and almost whole and perfect in a way. There are a lot of connotations with that. I want to reference something; to make the ultramarine blue color, they used this stone called Lapis Lazuli in the period of ancient Egyptians.

So this colour has been around for a really, really, really long time. And it creates this intense, perfect, primary feeling that connects to me. Because just like a primary colour, this EP is the foundation of my music as Lucy Tun, so I see the connections there. This is the primary color of my music; whatever might be my second EP, an album, or any music after that, I'll mix in this first batch of music with that color. This EP is my primary, my foundation.

We as young people feel this pressure to be perfect and to be bold and striking and interesting. We want the same feeling of being like a perfectly shined shoe. We want to be that shiny all the time. When we don't feel like that, we tend to go into really existential feelings of like, gosh what am I doing with my life, you know? I think that that blue colour really represents that perfection that us as young people always strive to be. I think as you get older, kind of becomes a little bit calmer. I don't know if that makes sense, but yeah.

What's my favourite and least favourite thing about making music?

They're both the same answer, and it's the unpredictability of making a good song. You never know when you're gonna find, like, creative inspiration to make something. It is not a nine-to-five job. I cannot sit down and be like, hey, I'm just gonna write a good song today.

I think maybe there are some people who can, but I can't. So it always comes off to something, you know, at a random time, four in the morning, 2 p.m., on the train, on the toilet, something will come, and I have to savor this, and I have to write this, and I have to make this song. It's like a pang that comes. So, you know, that's great because you always have to be open, and it can come at really great times when you need it, or it can come at the worst times when you actually need to focus on other stuff. I remember being in uni and not being able to concentrate because all I cared about was making music. So that was when it wasn't as helpful but I did write some really great music during then.

If your music had a signature dance move, what would it be?

Like.. “emotional cramping”. Intense dance movements… but there's some welling up in the eyes. That's how I imagine it. I would love that to happen at a show where people are really dancing their hearts out; they see it as an emotional release. If there are some tears there, as long as they're getting it out (I wouldn't want anyone to just cry, you know, for no reason). But sometimes you just got to let it out. That's how I would love people to kind of dance to my music as a form of release.

What are your top go-to emojis?

The crying face emoji. I always find the crying face emoji can exhibit a lot of different moods. Like I'm so happy I'm crying, or I'm so sad I'm crying, but also not in a way that's too, you know, intense. It's like… you know, unstressed crying face emoji. It can be so many different meanings. It's a very Gen Z emoji. I love it. I use it all the time and people just get it. You know?

Second one; probably a blue emoji. Maybe a blue heart. The third emoji is the safety pin because it ties in a lot with the motifs of my EP, which will be shown later.

Three things you can't live without in your bag.

Number one, my keys! That might be obvious, but I am very forgetful. Number two, lip balm. Lip balm, lip balm, lip balm. When I have dry lips, I feel like a shrivelled-up tumbleweed in the desert.

It's a must. There are so many situations where even just putting on lip balm - emotionally and mentally - it does so much for me because I feel secure. So lip balm.

Number three probably blush. I wear a lot of blush. I love blush. I'm wearing blush right now. I feel a bit dead without blush.

If you could have any superpower, what would it be?

Time travel, time travel.

I would love to like experience the past and see how it's shaped the present and also see the future. That would be amazing to be able to just travel between all of that. That would be incredible, BUT without messing anything up.

Okay, well thank you so much and have a good day.

Artist Spotlight: L U C I I A

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The shesaid.so Artist Spotlight is a series where we highlight new artists from our global community that you should keep an eye on. If you’re interested in submtting yourself or your artist please contact us at hello@shesaid.so

We're excited to feature Cuban/Swedish Grammy-nominated artist LUCIIA for our next #shesaidso Artist Spotlight. LUCIIA has opened for Coldplay in Sweden this month and has been championed by top tastemakers, including BBC Radio London, Vogue Scandinavia, Reprezent Radio, Rinse and many more. She has been working with Grammy-winning producers and songwriters in the US and UK and forged her sound, where classic 90s R&B blends with the future. Watch our video with LUCIIA, read our Q&A and listen to her single 'Same Thing New Man' 🎶.

If you had to describe your music using only three words, what would they be and why?

Nostaligic, Pain & Clarity

My sound takes you back to 00-90s R&B, I tell stories that have been hidden inside me for to long and releasing them hurts but gives me complete clarity at the same time.

If you could collaborate with any artist, dead or alive, who would it be and why? 

Khamari (on repeat 24/7) wait? Have you heard his music? He is so sick, probably one of the best in R&B right now! 

As an artist, what message or emotion do you hope to convey through your music?

Comfort. I want people not to feel like they are alone. I felt lonely all my life until recently, music saved me. I hope my stories can help others the same way. 

If your new single was a movie, who would star in it what would the movie genre be?

Drama. Teyana Taylor 

If you had to describe your music using three emojis, which ones would you choose and why?

I sing about all the feels, what you need and when you need it 

Artist Spotlight: Arlissa

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LA-based singer and model Arlissa (born in Germany but raised in South London), has risen to international stardom as a pop artist. Despite pressure from her previous label, she now embraces her independence to pursue her sound on her own terms. As a proud bisexual, Arlissa is an advocate for the LGBTQ+ community and recently participated in Spotify's GLOW sessions, collaborating with various artists and speaking on a panel.

Arlissa has written and performed on “We Won’t Move” from the critically acclaimed movie 'The Hate U Give', BTS’s “Spring Day”, Zayne’s comeback hit “Flames”, and “Eyes Off You” for Ariana Grande’s soundtrack for Charlie’s Angels.  She’s previously collaborated with Homeschool, Duckworth, Bartees Strange, Kiana Ledé and Jonas Blue. She’s ready now for the world  to hear her at her most authentic and vulnerable debut album 'The Open Hearted'.

What’s the story behind your debut album, ‘The Open Hearted’?

It was originally called “The Broken-hearted”, but shortly after finishing it, I experienced two huge heartbreaks. The ending of my marriage and a relationship after. I had never been single and knew it was time for me to give my love to myself instead of so freely to others. I’ve never been afraid of loving others but never learnt to love myself. So I changed the title to The Open-Hearted, and it’s really about claiming and honoring myself and my feelings throughout heartbreak. I’ve always been so quick to put others before myself and invalidate my own experience to create as much safety for others. This album is about claiming my power as a human who has experienced hurt in a multitude of ways. And knowing love is never lost. When you find it in yourself again, it follows you everywhere you go.

If you had to pick one song from your new album to introduce someone to your new release, which one would it be and why? 

I would struggle with to pick one song because the album is completely eclectic and each song shows a different side to me which is what I love most about it.

If your new album was a movie, who would star in it, and what genre would it be?

Laura harrier because yes. And it would be a psychological thriller cat and mouse game. 

What’s the most unexpected place you've found inspiration for a song? 

You can literally find inspiration anywhere. Nowhere is unexpected because writing songs is really just channelling from source energy and transmuting it through your own lense and experience…hopefully that makes sense. 

What’s the most important lesson you've learned in your music career

To trust yourself no matter who tells you otherwise. You’re the only one who has to live with the choices you make. So make sure you’re making the best one that’s in alignment to what you’re trying to achieve.  If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?

The power to not over think. I think we would be limitless without our own self imposed limiting beliefs. 

How do you stay grounded and focused on your music amidst all the attention and recognition? 

I just do what feels good to my body and what pleases me. If you focus and put too much emphasis on the good praise, you rely on that for your dopamine and the moment you reach a dry spell or not as much praise and you expected you’ll be unable yo make your own dopamine. That’s why I just chill and do whatever makes me feel good regardless of what attention comes my way. 

How do you balance expressing your personal experiences and emotions through your music while also connecting with a wider audience

- I just channel and write what helps me understand myself and my feelings, if people like it, that’s a bonus, but I do it for myself first. It’s the only way. Otherwise you’re chasing 10000s of different audiences because we are all so different, we’re not going to love everything so make sure you love what you’re doing first. 


3 values that guide your life 

- Choosing kindness

- Resting without guilt or shame 

- And trusting my intuition 

Tips for finding your creativity on a tough day 

Don’t force it just flow, make yourself a nice snack and do something that you enjoy. If you can’t find something creative to do, celebrate the fact that you are creation itself and love on yourself. The flow will come when it’s meant to. 

Favorite song/music to wake up to

At the moment it’s algo contigo by Rita payes and Elisabeth roma 

'The Open-Hearted' album will be released on June 23, 2023.