London-based artist Carla Monroe recently released her debut solo single ‘Shapes’.
Previously collaborating with the likes of MK and Oliver Heldens, Carla has already created a household name for herself within the UK music scene. Now turning her attention to her solo career, Carla created ‘Shapes’ after time spent reminiscing about what it feels like to be on a good night out with her friends. She’s an established songwriter, with writing credits for the likes of Sammy Porter and MK, and has seen radio support from the likes of Capital, KISS, BBC Radio 1 and Apple Music 1.
We had the chance to speak with her as part of our Introducing series...
Introduce yourself and tell us a bit about you!
"Hey! Im Carla Monroe and I’m an artist who also writes songs!"
Where are you from and do you feel that your surroundings inspire you in any way?
"I was born in East London. I definitely use my surroundings to draw on inspiration - it can be anything really…speaking to other people, or hearing and seeing phrases when I’m out or watching something on TV."
When did you start making music?
"I first started to make music when I was at uni, we were just a bunch of kids who wanted to have fun so we decided to make songs!"
Who are your biggest inspirations?
"Probably Mariah Carey – I think her vocal ability is legendary and I’d say the same for Sia - her vocal and tone are mad, but I also love her writing ability…its really unique."
How would you describe your sound in 5 words or less?
"Fun, feel-good, pop, dance"
Who would be your dream collaboration?
"I’d love to do a track with Rihanna – I think we’d have so much fun!"
You recently released your debut solo single ‘Shapes’! How has the reaction been so far?
"So far the reaction has been unbelievable! Its always a bit scary putting out your first single but the response has been so positive, I couldn’t have wished for anything more! I’m really grateful."
What is the story behind the lyrics?
"The lyrics are about being on a night out with your friends – it feels like a distant memory now, so I was inspired to write about it."
You've collaborated on massive dance tracks, established yourself as a songwriter for the likes of Sammy Porter and MK and received support from BBC Radio 1, Apple Music and Capital to name just a few! What’s been your overall stand out moment of your career?
"Probably performing ‘17’ for the first time at a live show and hearing the crowd sing the words back to me - that feeling is incredible!!"
What can we expect from you going into the rest of 2021?
"This year you expect more music, more collabs and hopefully some more shows!"
'Shapes' is out now.
Listen HERE @carlamonroe
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