ELIZZA has just released her new single Habit. Following a run of popular singles, including Can’t Quit, Want To Keep (produced by Rak-Su’s Myles Stephenson) and her new summer-ready single Habit, ELIZZA is gearing up for the release of her EP later this year and another single dropping this summer.
AC: Let’s talk about your new single Habit. What does this track mean to you?
ELIZZA – Habit is very personal, it’s probably more personal than all of the other songs I have released. First, I was a bit nervous to put this song out as it’s me being very honest and vulnerable with my deep feelings. But then I released it, as this is exactly what I want my music to be about: a true self-expression.
It’s about a relationship and trying to understand and learn from it. When you love someone and when you’re so close to someone that you become attached, almost inseparable, but then as in most relationships – there come hard challenges and crossroads.
You don’t always know whether to stay in a relationship because of the love, and is it still flourishing or are you staying in it because it’s so familiar and safe. These are the questions I am asking myself in Habit.
AC: In the studio, do you have a fear you’d like to conquer?
ELIZZA – When I remember my first studio sessions, definitely – the fear of sharing my most personal stories, being vulnerable in front of producers. But the more I work with other creatives, all these amazing artists, I have become more comfortable stepping out of my comfort zone and expressing myself musically. I get to learn more things about myself that I could probably never discover on my own.
I do like to challenge myself and strive to do better, vocally, and creatively, always. It has changed over the years and the fear has turned into more of an excitement. Now going to the studio it’s kind of like a therapy session and I look forward to it. It charges me up!
AC: What about outside of the studio?
ELIZZA – I definitely have a few fears, some might be hard to describe. Not being in control of a situation does make my adrenaline go up, I get nervous. And then – I surely don’t enjoy turbulence bumps during a flight makes me panic, hope I get over it one day as I love to travel.
AC: Where does the creation of a song begin for you?
ELIZZA – Creating music and songs never really stops for me. I try to let ideas come to me and make notes of these lyrics in my head and melodies whenever I can. Whether I am walking the streets of London, boarding a plane, or working in the studio with producer and other songwriters, it can begin anywhere. People, art, experiences, and good conversations inspire me to think more, and usually, that’s a good start for a song.
AC: Who do you feel inspired by in the music industry?
ELIZZA – I do love individual journeys and success stories of so many incredible artists. What inspires me is that it’s all in the artist’s hands to create their world, their sound, their art, and their audience. To succeed in the music industry is a dream for so many and real artists who get there do it for the love of music and put countless hours and sacrifices to get where they are today. It’s a tough path but if you love music you will do everything to fight for your place in it!
AC: As a music artist, what are you still trying to learn?
ELIZZA – Songwriting and storytelling is something I want to improve as I evolve as an artist and working with other creatives has already taught me a lot.
Also, I am still practicing my guitar and piano skills along with music production. It helps with writing and being a clearer of the vision of a song. I don’t think I will ever stop learning my craft but I do enjoy the process.
Another important one is that I am learning to listen to myself more and turn off the noise. As someone who is always thinking, writing, working on the next project or release, it’s hard to just stay still and slow down sometimes.
AC: What can you tell us about your upcoming debut EP?
ELIZZA – I can’t tell you much just now, but keep an eye out. It’s coming and developing into an amazing story. I’m excited.
AC: Everyone seems to have an app idea at the moment, what’s yours?
ELIZZA – I think all my app ideas have been executed already by all the AI experts out there! One that I do really need is an app that will remember all my passwords and emails but I think it probably exists, or a bot that would do my makeup and hair on days when I really don’t feel like it, would be pretty cool!
AC: How important is social media to you right now?
ELIZZA – Oh, it’s very important! Social media allows me to share my music and directly connect with my fans. However, I do think it’s healthy to disconnect from the virtual world periodically and smell the roses, take in real life, enjoy the physical moment.
AC: Ahead of a gig, do you have any pre-show rituals?
ELIZZA – I do. Usually, I need some time with myself as it gives me a sense of clarity and focus to get in the mood for the show. I also like to get ready for a performance with a mug of hot tea, make sure I exercise on that day and stretch my body, and most importantly warm up my vocal cords and there is a bit of meditation involved to center myself and my energy.
AC: What do you want the world to look like in 10 years?
ELIZZA – I would love to see a world of equality and progress in all areas of society. More women representing in all spheres of life, especially, more artists in control of their careers. Also, continued support for human rights and movements such as Black Lives Matter to promote equality and diversity. I know we have a long way to go, but I have hope that we will overcome the big issues that we are dealing with today.
AC: If you had the chance to put something on billboards worldwide next week, what would it be? Or what would it say?
ELIZZA – The music video for my new single Habit on all billboards worldwide would be amazing. Or maybe half of those billboards feature my sister Anete Salinieka, with the full-face makeup that she did for Burberry Beauty this week. [Laughs]
INTERVIEW: ADAM CROOKES
