Wonderland.

NEW NOISE: ALYSHA

Introducing the singer-songwriter set for stardom.

You may not know her name yet, but – trust me – you’re going to be hearing it everywhere soon. That’s right, we’re calling it already, Alysha will be in lights before you know it.

Starting to write music at only eight years old, she’s formed her unique style by mastering every instrument she got her hands on and imitating the greats she saw performing on TV. I mean, who hasn’t tried to sing along to Queen Bey when alone in their flat? But whilst, at least for me, the efforts were to no avail, Alysha’s mesmerising vocals hooked those who heard her and her path to musical stardom began.

Now getting ready to release her own music in the near future, we’re introducing Alysha to the world, so when she inevitably blows up, just remember that we called it. You’re welcome world.

Tell me about your initial experiences with music. Where did it all start?

I grew up with music always around me… Like I remember being around four or five years old and singing along to Beyoncé’s “Crazy In Love”. As I got older, I sang to myself everyday and I would always turn on MTV just to find new songs to sing along to. By 10 years old, I wrote my first song!

I hear you play both the piano and the drums. Which instrument do you prefer? Do you try and incorporate both into your songwriting?

I definitely prefer the piano as it comes naturally to me. I can be listening to a song and then when I go back home, I’ll be finding each note on the piano and playing the exact song. Although, I do try to add drums into my songs even though I don’t have a drum kit at home.

You’re obviously starting out in the industry at a very young age – what are the biggest challenges you’ve faced as a young female artist?

The biggest challenge I’ve faced is probably my first test with a sign where they expected me to record a couple of things perfectly in the span of one week or trying to writing a full song in one day.

How would you describe your sound?

I would describe my sound as easy and soulful.

Talk me through one of your favourite tracks…

One of my favourite songs at the moment is “Dead To Me” by Kali Uchis. I love the lyrics and how the whole song sounds.

“I find inspiration in all the experiences I’ve had in the past and all the problems I’ve overcomed or that I’m still facing and working on.”

Where do you find inspiration for your music? Are there any particular themes that you like to explore in your songs?

I find inspiration in all the experiences I’ve had in the past and all the problems I’ve overcomed or that I’m still facing and working on.

And where are you from? How has that influenced your sound?

My dad is Cuban and his whole family in Cuba plays at least one instrument or sings. My mum also played a lot of R&B and pop to me growing up.

Who would you say your biggest influences are?

My biggest influence is probably SZA as she has some of the best lyrics and she seems like such a sweet and genuine person. The Internet also influence me as I really love their sound and they seem like really cool people.

What’s your creative process like? Do you have a favourite place to write music?

I just sit on this certain spot on my bed and I manage to get some lyrics down and a melody. It only works when i have strong emotions towards something.

You’ve also been working with K-Gee, how did that come about?

That has come out really well, he’s an amazing producer and he definitely understands the vibe i’m going for!

What has it been like working with him?

He is a really chill guy and I think he’s cool and fun to work with.

What do you like to do when you’re not making music?

I like to read, listen to music and sometimes cook. I also hang out with my friends a lot.

And finally, tell me about your plans for the next year or so. How do you want to evolve as an artist?

Honestly, I wanna be doing all sorts of things like finalize recording my singles, work on a first album, working on the creative directions for my music videos. I’m also going to be starting music school soon so I imagine it will be a pretty busy year!

Words
Rosanna Dodds