Your album drops in next week, what can you tell us about it?
“I have been writing “Home“ since I was sixteen and it has become such a special part of me that I have worked so hard on. It felts almost surreal that everyone will soon be listening to my music. The track list features twelve songs including my two singles and a few surprise collaborations with some artists I have been lucky enough to work with. Overall, it has a variety of R&B songs; some songs are more contemporary whilst others are more traditional so hopefully there is something that everyone that can enjoy.”
Why go for a variety?
“I didn’t want to label myself with one specific type of music very early on in my career and be the girl that was known for only slow meaningful ballads or upbeat songs. Having a wide range of styles has allowed me to show each part of the person I came to become. Each song carries a different message that can only be portrayed with a certain musical vibe.”
What is the overall message of your music?
“I just want to be authentic to myself and for that to come across in my music. The inspiration of the songs comes from all aspects of my life, whether that’s heartbreak, finding strength or love. It’s about me being honest and vulnerable and raw and hopefully people would want to listen and connect. It’s a side I’ve never really expressed before which is why I am quite nervous. This album is a piece of my heart that I am sharing with people I don’t know. I’ve come so far and grown so much as a person since I left Albania and I’m glad that this album documents my journey. In a few words it’s about finding my feet a world so different from mine.”
Why did you leave?
“Life was difficult and my parents wanted a better life for their child which is understandable. When I was twelve we moved to London and started our new life here. If anything I was happy. From that young age I knew music was everything to me and leaving my safe haven was a step in the right direction. My grandfather always said ‘be fearless in pursue of what sets your soul on fire’ and I’ve tried to do just that. Music was always my number one and deep down I knew Albania wasn’t the place to be recognise as an R&B artist. "
Was life in London what you expected it to be?
“Honestly, no. I was a bit naïve thinking everything would fall perfectly into place. Once I moved and was discovered, I quickly realised in this industry, musicians aren’t spoon fed, so I had to work from the bottom up. I was very lucky to have the team at my record label, without them I don’t think I would be hear speaking to you.”
Has your origin inspired your music?
“I believe so. It has given my songs meaning and has allowed me to express myself with stories that have actual happened. Home is where my music is so of course it will. I spent my entire childhood there, therefore it will always be a part of who I am as a person. But it isn’t so much the sound that is influenced but the meaning behind it. I think it’s those songs that I love the most.”
Which is your favourite?
If I had to choose one song it would be ‘Rise’. It is the story falling in love with someone who makes you feel on top of the world. When you listen to it you will tell that it kind of has Beyonce’s “Halo” vibes with the smooth, soulful voice but is still very much powerful. It means a lot to me as it’s based on my personal life and relationship I have with a person. I love that music can take a story and bring it to life sort of. Either that or the collab that I did with Dua Lipa. That will also be a special track. as it was the song that exposed me to the world and let people know who I am .
How was working with Dua Lipa and did she give you any advice?
“I had so much fun with her. She is just one of those girls that are just so down to earth no matter her level of fame. For my first music collab it was nice to be with someone who came from the same place as I did and for us to use our heritage as a common ground for our music. It is so cool that I grew up listening to her dad and now we are friends. She said ‘Keep your dreams in sight and don’t lose track’. I agree with her advice.”
If there is anything you want people to take away from your music?
“That no matter how crazy your dreams are they can still come true. I would have given up years ago if I had listened to the people telling me I am not good enough. But instead I placed all that energy into creating this album. But most importantly I hope that I make people believe that the place they are used to is not the place you belong, you belong where ever you want . That is one of the main stories I tell on this album.”
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