London-based singer and song-writer Alice D has recently unveiled her brilliant new single 'Passion.' The release of the single solidifies that she is definitely one to watch, with even more releases scheduled for the future. Her music expands on a sound of contemporary pop, soul and R&B roots, while she also derives inspiration from her love of Afro-Latin music culture, both past and present. Her sensual and sultry vocals explore the feelings of a fresh summer romance, with the accompanying music video conveying the emotions through such slick choreography.
Her sound has continued to develop over the years since she built on her love of music, with her music focusing on the themes of defiance and fragility, lostness and purpose, and empowerment in tight corners.
Here at The Lowdown, we had the chance to speak with Alice D about her brand new single 'Passion,' who her musical influences are, her plans for 2022 and more. Keep reading to check out what she had to say!
You have recently released your new single, titled 'Passion.' What has it been like for you to get new music released?
"I've worked so hard on this new body of work for the past year - everything from the music to the artwork and visuals, so to finally have it out is an amazing feeling!"
For anyone who hasn't heard the single yet, can you sum it up in a couple of words?
"Passionate love affair."
How long did the single take to come together, right from the initial writing stages?
"'Passion' was the last song I wrote on the EP. I had the title already in my head. It always helps me to create a story if I have a title I like beforehand. I had been listening to the album 'Congo To Cuba' by Putumayo, which is a mix of contemporary African and Cuban music and brought the reference to the studio. The song flowed out of myself and Tim (producer) and only took two or three sessions to write, record and finish. The last thing we did was add Bella Band, who plays the flute on it, which I love!"
What is the meaning behind the single?
"The song is about a passionate love affair and the longing for that fire and spark that you only get with this one particular person. The excitement of a new love, set against the backdrop of a hot summer evening, which comes to life in the music video I filmed for it."
Going back to your roots, how did you first get into music?
"I grew up in a musical household where music was always playing. I'd be going to gigs/shows and I loved being in choirs and jazz concerts at school. I've always felt a special connection to music and would insist on doing performances for my family in the living room. I first thought I wanted to take singing seriously when I started working with producer/artist Oscar Scheller. We'd write and record basic songs in his bedroom when we were both starting out and then later collaborated on my debut EP 'Narcissus,' which he produced entirely. I haven't stopped independently releasing music since then."
Who would you say are your musical influences?
"I truly am inspired by so many artists, but my first loves were Aaliyah and Brandy. I've always been in awe of their voices and tones - both so effortless. I also grew up listening to Michael Jackson, as my Dad is the biggest fan, as well as Stevie Wonder and Prince. For this EP in particular though, I've been listening to vinyl from all over the world and wanted to incorporate interesting sounds and elements that I had heard into this project. Discovering new music made working on this project really exciting and fulfilling."
Is there anything in particular you would most like to achieve throughout your music career?
"For people to resonate and connect with my music, that's always the goal."
Is there a message that you would like to be conveyed through your music?
"That being yourself is your superpower."
What else does 2022 have in store for you that you can tell us about?
"I am releasing my new EP in September and hope to do an EP launch show around that. I've also co-wrote on an exciting album that's out this summer, so watch this space!"
Finally, do you have a message for all those who support you?
"Your continued support doesn't go unnoticed. I'm so thankful you're here. I'm excited for you all to hear my new music!"
Alice D's new single 'Passion' is out now and is available to purchase and stream through all major music purchasing and streaming outlets.
By Rachel Dempster