Tabi Talks New Single, Future Plans And More

Vocalist and rising star Tabi has released her new single ‘Leaving’ and we at JLTT felt that now was the perfect time to catch up with her:

 

When did you begin singing/songwriting?

 

I started singing when I first heard Duffy at around six years old – I absolutely adore her. She inspired me to sing. I started songwriting when I was about nine. The first song I ever wrote was a Christmas song called “I Don’t Even Know If It Will Snow This Christmas,” not the catchiest title in hindsight, but I got better! I wrote “Write a Song About” when I was 13.

 

What is your earliest musical memory?

 

Dancing on the kitchen table to Duffy. That, and my dad taking me to a Slade concert – it was amazing. That was my first ever gig.

You have your new single ‘Leaving’ out now. What was the story/inspiration behind the track?

 

“Leaving” is about walking away from someone who only realises your worth once you’re gone. It’s that moment when they suddenly start saying all the right things, but it’s too late. It’s not just a breakup song, it’s about knowing when to choose yourself, and how powerful that can be.

Where did you record the single and who produced it?

 

I recorded the track in a studio in London with my brilliant producer Jack Hardman. He really got the emotion behind the song and helped bring it to life.

Do you have any interesting, funny or memorable stories from the recording sessions?

 

The live recording was so fun, my band always makes everything hilarious. My dad and brother came to the studio too, which was chaotic. They were being massively annoying (in a loving way), but it actually made the day feel really special.

Did you use any particular instruments, microphones, recording equipment to help you get a particular sound/tone for the record?

 

Yes! We used a lot of vintage ‘60s instruments and ribbon mics to give it a warm, classic tone. It was important to get that live, emotional feel, like you’re in the room with me.

Was it a difficult song to write? 

 

Not really. Writing is something I’ve worked hard at over the years, but it comes naturally now. The emotions behind “Leaving” were very clear to me, so the song flowed quite easily.

 

Do you have any plans to release a visualiser to accompany the single?

 

Yes and there’s a live video that really captures the emotion of the song. It felt important to share a performance that shows what the song means to me.

 

Which of your tracks hear you at your a) happiest, b) angriest and c) most reflective?

 

1. Write a Song About
2. Leaving
3. Love Like Drugs

 

Do you have any further music releases planned for 2025?

 

Yes! I’ve got another release planned for early autumn, can’t say too much yet, but it’s coming soon.

What two things do you hope to have achieved once you have left the stage? 

 

I want people to feel alive and I want them to feel understood. If I can do that, I’ve done my job.

Do you have any favoured stage instruments, effects, pedals, microphones etc?

 

My Shure mic, she’s been with me through thick and thin. I also love using synths. My guitarist, Meg Helstrip, uses a bunch of distortion pedals, but she’s the pedal nerd, not me!

How do you look after your voice? 

 

I have lessons with my amazing vocal coach – and I’m always being told off for not looking after my voice properly. I’m working on it!

You are given the opportunity to write the score for a film adaptation of a novel that you enjoy. Which novel is it and why?

 

The Devil’s Blade by M.D. Lachlan, it’s actually my dad’s book. It’s dark, strange and feminist which is exactly my vibe musically. The story follows Julie d’Aubigny, a real historical figure turned revenge anti-heroine, who’s forced to strike a deal with the Devil to avenge herself and reclaim her power. I grew up around my dads books, so to soundtrack it would feel like coming full circle and I’d have so much fun bringing out all the emotion through music.

Where is your hometown and could you please describe it in five words?

I’m from Brighton. It’s: lovely, vibrant, mad, loud, stressful.

 

Do you have any live dates in the UK/Europe planned for 2025/2026?

 

Yes! I’ve got a few shows lined up around Brighton and London this summer. And next year, I’ve got a really exciting support slot that Ceri Walker is organising in aid of NACOA.

 

What makes Tabi happy and what makes you unhappy?

 

Happy: My dog. My family. My friends, especially my best friend Josie. Sausage and mash. My boyfriend Louis especially when he makes me sausage and mash.

Unhappy: When Louis refuses to make me sausage and mash.

Feature Image Photo Credit:  Supplied By WMA Agency

Tabi’s new single ‘Leaving’ is out now.

Listen here: https://TABI.lnk.to/Leaving

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamtabimusic/