INTERVIEW: Lisabel — Music Musings & Such

INTERVIEW:

Lisabel

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IT has been good getting to know the Italian-born…

musician, Lisabel. She talks about her upbringing and coming to the U.K.; the sounds/artists that sparked her love of music; what she has planned for the future; a few new artists we should check out – and whether there are going to be any gigs before the end of the year.

I was keen to know more about her two singles, My Mister K and No More Blues I'm Free, and why she decided to release live versions of them Lisabel speaks about her styles and mix of genres; whether she is going to release any new music down the line – and the three albums that mean the most to her.

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Hi, Lisabel. How are you? How has your week been?

Hi, Sam. I'm very good - and my week was great, thanks! How about you?

For those new to your work; can you introduce yourself, please?

I'm a singer-songwriter based in London. I'm influenced by a mixture of styles like Jazz, R&B; Soul, Pop…I wouldn't know how to label my songwriting with one word, though - which, to me, is a good thing. Ahah!

Freedom...

My Mister K and No More Blues I'm Free are your two recent singles. What is the tale behind each?

I wrote those songs a few years ago - but I was waiting for the right moment to share them, publicly. They talk about new beginnings through the encounter of love.

What was the reason behind releasing the tracks as live videos? Was it a more natural and expressive mode of performance?

I guess so. I just wanted to showcase the songwriting more than the final arrangement. I decided to do it in my home to give an additional piece of my personality.

How much of your creative focus and inspiration is taken from love and the subject of relationships?

A lot of it, I have to say.

People's relationships and nature are so powerful in the well-being of one's life. It's important to be grateful to those who make you feel stronger and more confident. I tend to write songs to let people know my feelings of gratefulness, joy or, sometimes, confusion (and so on...).

Is there going to be new material next year?

Yes. A lot of music is on its way...

I'm enjoying the ride of creating it, though. It's the most exciting time!

You are based in London. How important is the city? Is it somewhere that gives you motivation and influence?

Living in the city is great. There's a lot going on every day. Meeting people that are walking the same path as me is also very motivational, but I come from a small town next to the sea and the mountains called Arenzano (in Liguria, Italy).

I often miss that feeling of peacefulness that only nature can give. I do love the British countryside, though!

DESIGN CREDIT: Francesca Maggiore

It seems, as your surname is ‘Biscaldi’, you have European roots? Tell me a little about your upbringing and coming to the U.K.

As I just mentioned, yes: I'm originally from Italy. I moved to the U.K. to study Music because I grew up listening to international music - and I've always sung in English! London is an incredible and productive hub for musicians, so it seemed like a good idea to explore music here.

Did you experience a lot of diverse music during your childhood? What sort of music were you raised on?

My parents listened to everything that was mainstream. I have vivid memories of Motown compilations in the car; numerous R&B and Pop artists. I went through a Rap, Hip-Hop and Rock phase with my brother, too!

Fun times!

What, would you say, has been your highlight so far in music?

When I was at university; I got the chance to perform a cover of a Jill Scott song called You Don't Know at the O2 Academy in Islington - as part of a students’ showcase night.

That was something!

IN THIS PHOTO: Becca Stevens

Who are the new artists you recommend we check out?

I couldn't stop listening to Noname when her album Telefone came out last year. She's amazing - and her band is, too.

Becca Stevens' new album, Regina, is also incredible. She's not new in the industry, though!

I recommend my friend Milena. Her album, Everyday, is a mixture of Electronic-Soul and Pop. I'm featured on one of the songs and recorded some B.V.s on the album.

Also, an instrumental band called EMANATA are worth seeking out. They play fusion-Jazz - and the music is so unique and fresh.

If you had to select the three albums that mean the most to you; which would they be and why?

Black Radio and Black Radio 2 by Robert Glasper. Also; The Lost and Found by Gretchen Parlato.

They are soundtracks of specials times!

Can we see you perform anywhere soon?

I don't have any show coming up at the moment, as I'm working on my album. I'd love to start gigging with my original music once it's all in place and ready to go!

What advice would you give to artists coming through right now?

I'm one of them, so I would say...

Write the music YOU want to listen to and never stop soul searching. Honest music can heal!