There has never been a better time in human history for artistic self-expression.
Musicians who are relatively unknown are enabled to find their audiences directly on the internet and like many, are able to get their start by putting up their works on platforms such as YouTube and SoundCloud.
Setting Mind interviews LELO, a musician based in Leeds, United Kingdom.
Setting Mind: What inspired you to write the song “Breathing”?
LELO: The song came from an initial lack of inspiration, especially in terms of lyrics. It had changed a lot since it was originally written, but the main premise of the song lyrically developed whilst I was just daydreaming, looking out of a window, I came to a realization of what I actually wanted to do with my time. We don’t have particularly long here on Earth, and I’ve always hated the idea of waking up everyday uninspired and unhappy. Creativity is the most important thing in the world to me, and reminding ourselves what it is that makes us tick is really healthy and important.
How did you get your start in music?
I started playing music when I was really young with my best mate, but music really took shape for me when I became a drummer in the first ‘proper’ band. The band was together for 3 years and it lead me to study music production and getting involved with the Leeds music scene at a pretty young age. I owe a lot to that band for giving me that opportunity. Sadly the band had parted ways but LELO began, and I found a load of creativity flowing out of me that I never found whilst I was behind a drum kit.
You mentioned Leed’s music scene. Can you describe what’s it like for those who are unfamiliar?
Leed’s music scene is great! It’s full of amazing bands, a lot of which form great friendships which help the scene continue to grow. The venues are some of the coolest I’ve been to and the passion for the genre/scene I find myself a part of really seems to be thriving at the moment! It’s the best.
What is the meaning behind the name LELO?
The story behind the name isn’t a particularly inspiring one to be honest! It was one of those where you’re just brainstorming names and waiting for something to come. Lion King was on and Lilo and Stitch was mentioned, but I thought in order to have people say it right, the spelling needed to change. I just thought it looked cool!
How would you describe your genre of music that you play?
Indie Dream-Pop. It takes influence from all over, and from different decades. As long as it’s dreamy, mellow and full of meaning, I’m happy!
What is your process of writing music?
LELO songs start off in my little home studio setup. Tracks take a good few weeks before they get anywhere near close to materializing. Once I’ve got the guitars, bass, drums and some basic synth down, all the while doing some basic production on it, I normally park it and leave it alone for a week. I’ll then come back and have another good stab at the track. I push myself really hard and completely reimagine the track a good 5 or so times, and once I’m completely drained and out of ideas, I take it to my good friend Mickey Dales. He is a fantastic producer and understands exactly where a track needs to go. We have a great working relationship and I think we create some beautiful stuff together.
What is on hold for the future of LELO?
There’s loads of really exciting stuff coming up in the very near future to support this release! A lot of it is unannounced so I can’t say too much, apart from just make sure to follow or like any of the LELO social media accounts to make sure you’re the first to see all the news.
Any last words?
Please share LELO if you enjoy it! It’s only just begun! Thank you x x
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
Listen to LELO’s new single “Breathing”, now available on SoundCloud.
