The multi-talented visionary artist, LEILAH, has blessed our worlds with her incredible new EP “The Distancing Effect”. After working with other renowned genre-fluid artists, LEILAH has crafted her own sound by exploring new horizons and pushing her own talents into exciting, refreshed realms.
Executively produced by the industry heavyweight, Mura Masa, “The Distancing Effect” is a trophy worthy project with vibrant tracks from start to finish. LEILAH exists as a revitalising sound within the scene, choosing to be visually anonymous and allowing her captivating gifts to always take centre stage.
For a fresh “face” on the scene LEILAH’s profound lyricism, enchanting production and extreme dedication to her artistry have caught our attention like no other. We had the honour of sitting down with the rising star to talk through early days, exciting collaborations and her shining new EP.
Stream “The Distancing Effect” now…
Read the exclusive interview below…
Hey! How are you?
Hi, I’m good. I just finished watching Succession, so in mourning, but I’ll survive – I think.
When did you start creating music?
I actually think I remember being able to hear my mothers heartbeat in the womb and thinking ‘this needs a melody’.
You have worked with some amazing artists! Has there been a collaborative experience that really stands out to you as a favourite?
The producer-artist is a sensitive species, so I won’t name names. The best experiences are always the ones where you feel like an equal participant who has been specifically sought after because you have something an artist needs. The meeting is intentional, regardless of who put it together. Sometimes an artist will want something from me that I didn’t even know I could give, but they’ve heard it and believe it’s the missing colour to complete their project. It’s wonderful to feel needed when it comes to collaboration.
How does your artistic process differ working on collaborative songs versus your own sound?
It’s always easier to identify the need in others compared to in myself. Writing for others I am being useful, the approach is knowing the ‘right’ response to an artists’ call, it’s a joy. Writing for myself, the approach feels more intrusive, like therapy or surgery, it’s worth it but it’s a pain.
What can you tell us about the newly released run of singles?
I’m super proud of them and the combined effort that went into them on all sides, but they’re only the start. There’s so much more to come from me, we’re just beginning our journey together.
When did you start working on the project?
Start? My life is always the ‘project’, songs that make EPs and Albums are just me reviewing certain chapters and giving them names.
What are you most excited for with its release?
For people to hear from me again, and to hear me differently.
Do you have a favourite song?
In life? I can never choose. Of my own? I love all my children the same.
What is your decision behind remaining visually anonymous?
You’re right, the weather is particularly lovely today.
Do you have a career highlight thus far?
Hearing my voice on a Drake & 21 Savage video was definitely the peak so far.