This week’s Track of the Week comes from BIMM Institute Manchester songstress Laeeqa, whose charisma and attitude towards life is infectious. This RnB specialist’s music and voice are both delicate and honest giving her a leg up on the competition.
Her latest track, ‘Yesterday’ is no different. Listen below.
Describe your new track in three words…
Reminiscent, dreamy and nostalgic.
What inspired you when writing this track?
My inspiration always comes from a personal place. I wrote this song after having a terrible day when my mental health sometimes takes me to places I’ve tried so hard to forget. I try to release this through writing. Whether I’ve had a bad thought or been procrastinating, or even just thinking negatively, it’s about trying to look on the brighter side of things. I just remember that this feeling will not last forever, and you have to let your positive thoughts outweigh the negative.
Are there any artists that inspire you when writing?
100% I always listen to artists such as Ms Lauryn Hill, Jorja Smith, Arlo Parks, Ama Lou, primarily female artists, to be honest. They portray such honesty and strength as individuals and through their music and have beautiful lyricism.
What would you say makes your music unique?
My music is authentic, I very much have my own sound, and you can tell it’s me straight away just by my melodic flows and vulnerability that I bring to my music. I express my emotion through lyricism, which stands out to people when I perform at gigs and put music out there. I like how honest my lyrics are.
Do you have a process you follow when writing a song?
I do go off emotion quite a lot. I just like to be spontaneous and go with the flow rather than having an actual writing process. I never try to force lyrics to come out. I never force writing new material unless I feel I’m ready, but when I do, I spend hours in and out rearranging and thinking about making it sound as true to myself as possible.
How has studying at BIMM helped you develop as an artist?
BIMM Institute has changed my life in a way I never would have thought. Their support and the opportunities that are provided are incredible. Before coming to BIMM Institute, I never classed myself as a singer and didn’t rate myself as a songwriter either. I have always been confident, but the music was something I kept pretty hidden and didn’t put a lot of effort into. Since studying here, I can happily say this is my career, and it’s only excelling. Thanks to BIMM Institute.
What’s next for you?
I am currently focusing on finding a manager. I have so much music to release to the world and can’t wait to share it—hopefully, an EP by the end of next year. I am currently working on a major project that should be dropping early next year as well!
I have my headline show coming up in January which I will release further details about this soon on my socials. I am so excited about what 2022 offers and will be starting off the next level of my career with some significant opportunities.
