Getting To Know... Leire

After a flurry of fresh and exciting offerings over the last few years, as well as supporting the likes of Tom Walker, Gang of Youths, and RagnBone Man on tour, fast-rising artist Leire returns once again with her vibrant new single 'Back To You'.

Channelling a rich and effervescent folk-pop direction from start to finish, 'Back To You' makes for a wonderfully bright and uplifting listen. With her sweet and soaring voice riding a bed of galloping production throughout, she is certainly shining high on this one.

So with the new single available to stream now, we sat down with her to find out more about her background and what has inspired her most lately.

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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?

I fell in love with the piano first. I studied classical piano and when I first started playing I wasn’t aware that in the future I would use that instrument to write my best songs.

What kind of music did you love when you were younger?

I was a big fan of a band called Ken Zazpi. They were the Basque version of Coldplay. Then it was definitely Taylor Swift (and a lot of country pop) and Adele.

What was the first album you remember owning?

I remember it perfectly. It was Taylor Swift - Fearless. I know it because my family is not very musical and we didn’t have many CDs at home. But I travelled to the UK when I was a kid and I bought it with my own money.

What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?

I had so many over the years, but at the moment it is ‘In the Stars’ by Benson Boone.

Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?

Haha, not really. I normally have ideas already or concepts that I always wanted to write about. I try not to put too much pressure on myself because if I do I know there will be no song.

Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?

Griff and Tate Mcrae. Definitely Mr. Harry Styles' new album.

If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?

Anyone? Taylor Swift, Lewis Capaldi or Adele.

What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?

I guess I feel blessed because I can do this for a living. I have the ability to make people happy, or cry, or make their day, or become one of their memories. I think it’s crazy.

And what is the most frustrating part?

Well, I always say that it’s a curse. There is no way out. I will never not be a musician wanting to do music for life, which is sometimes very stressful and frustrating.

And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?

It’s going to sound clitché, but if you want to be a musician you have to work hard and never give up. I know, super cliché, but I know that there is no limit if I keep trying and working.

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Leire's new single 'Back To You' is available to stream now. Check it out in the player below.