YAZELLE Talks New Single, Her Voice And More

Rising London artist YAZELLE has released her new single ‘Feel Me’ and she chatted to us about the track, her voice and much more: 

When did you begin songwriting?
I started songwriting as a teenager. I had so much to say and naturally gravitated towards storytelling. But for a while, I stepped away from it. After some time, I found my way back to writing, and this time, I had more life experience to draw from. Coming back to songwriting felt like coming full circle, but with a deeper perspective and a lot more to express.

What is your earliest musical memory?
One of my earliest musical memories was dressing up as Aaliyah for a Comic Relief performance at school. I was already obsessed with music – wearing plasters on my fingers like Michael Jackson and recording myself singing in my bedroom. But this performance stands out. My 6-foot-tall American PE teacher, who used to be a basketball player, found out what I was doing and decided to surprise me by dressing up as R. Kelly and jumping on stage in the middle of my performance! It was hilarious at the time, though, looking back, it definitely hasn’t aged well, knowing what we all know now!

Your new single ‘Feel Me’ is out now. What was the inspiration/story behind the track?
It’s all about that wild, intense feeling when you’re really drawn to someone. That connection where everything feels amplified, and you’re completely in the moment. There’s a vulnerability that comes with it – letting yourself feel everything, even when it gets a little overwhelming. It’s that rush of emotions, and yeah, this is definitely something I’ve experienced, where you just can’t help but get lost in the intensity of it all.

Where did you record the track and who produced it?
‘Feel Me’ was created during a songwriting camp I held for my artist project in July. I worked with my regular producer and co-writer, Eljay, and for the first time, we teamed up with a couple of other writers. The track came together during the camp, and then we took it to his studio to fine-tune it. I’m really happy with how it turned out. A lot of other great songs were written there as well, which I’m excited to share soon.

Do you have any interesting, funny or memorable stories from the recording sessions?
Honestly, most of our recording sessions are full of laughs. We’ve been working together for so long that we’ve developed such a comfortable dynamic, and there’s always lots of banter. If I were to put together a highlight reel of all the funny moments from our voice notes and videos, it would probably feel more like a comedy show than a recording session! It’s kind of surreal to have so much fun at work, especially when I think about other jobs I’ve had in the past. It’s all about enjoying the process, so every session is memorable for its own reasons.

Was it a difficult song to write?
It was a case of making sure the intensity of the feeling matched what I wanted to convey. The song started with a pretty clear brief, so the direction was set from the start. It was more about fine-tuning the details to make sure the emotion came through just right.

Did you use any particular instruments, microphones, recording equipment to help you get a particular sound/tone for the record?
Since Eljay and I have worked together on all my tracks, he really gets the vibe and sounds I’m drawn to. This gives each song its own unique feel while still keeping a consistent sonic identity. We also record at his studio, which helps maintain that cohesive sound across all my music.

What two things do you hope to have achieved once you have left the stage?
I hope I’ve connected with the audience and really shared the emotions behind my music, and left them with something they’ll remember. After spending the last year focused on writing, recording, and releasing, it’s exciting to finally start doing live performances and share what I’ve been working so hard on. It’s all about enjoying the moment and connecting through the music

Do you have any favoured stage instruments, effects, pedals, microphones etc?
Since I’m just starting out with live performances, I’m still figuring out the best setup for me. I’m sure I’ll find the right mix of gear as I go, but for now, I’m just focused on getting into the rhythm of being on stage.

Where is your hometown and could you please describe it in five words?
My hometown is Streatham Vale, though I’ve been living in North London for years. I’m not sure what it’s like now, but the five words I’d use to describe it are: ice rink, knock down ginger, Friday club, bike riding, and fish and chip shop! (I know, I know – technically more than five, and I went for the personal approach!)

How do you look after your voice?
I do my best to look after my voice. Staying hydrated is key (though I could definitely be more consistent with it), and I try to rest my voice when I can, although I’m not always the best at knowing when to be quiet! I use a steamer and nebuliser, especially before singing, and I always make sure to warm up properly. It’s all about finding that balance and being mindful of my vocal health – something I’m still working on!

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?
I haven’t really thought about this before, but it’s got me thinking now! I’d definitely need some
time to explore the possibilities. It’s definitely given me something to think about!

Who are some of your musical influences? Do you have any recommendations?
My musical influences are heavily shaped by 90s R&B, which sparked my love for strong vocals, melodies, and storytelling. Artists like Jodeci, TLC, 112, and Dru Hill had a huge impact on me with their soulful sound and raw emotion. Although I’m currently making dance music, those R&B influences still shape my writing, with a focus on strong vocals and catchy melodies, even if the lyrics are adapted for the genre. If you haven’t heard them, I’d recommend checking them out, though the nostalgia definitely adds to their impact for me. In the dance world, I’m really into Diplo’s music. He has a way of mixing different genres that
just feels so fresh and effortless.

Do you have any UK/European live dates planned for 2024/2025?
This is something I’m actively working on for next year – so watch this space!

Do you have any further music releases planned for 2024/2025?
I do! I’ve got one more release lined up for the end of the year, and I’m really excited about it – it’s one of my favourites. I’ve even heard a rumor there might be another music video coming… I’ve also been working on a collection of songs that will be dropping next year. Keep an eye out for updates!

What makes YAZELLE happy and what makes you unhappy?
What makes me happy are my cats (they are literal clouds of joy), seeing and making my friends and family happy, creating music, new experiences, greeting random dogs and the sunshine. I also love those moments when everything feels aligned and getting into bed after a long day (why does that just feel so good sometimes?) What makes me unhappy are things that don’t make sense, inconsistency, people with no common sense, slow walkers (just, why ) drivers who don’t say ‘thank you’ (again, why?) or slow drivers (rage) walking past something out of place too many times before I move it, and putting things off that end up taking just 5 minutes but torment me for a week. Ah, life really does have its ups and downs, doesn’t it?