UK R&B sensation Labisi talks about her debut single TLC, her early beginnings, dream collaborations and more

UK R&B is in a healthy place with so many stars popping with their distinct and unique sounds, flavour and styles. One of those artists is London singer , songwriter Labisi. Whose debut single TLC is an absolute stunner. The single which sheds light on a warm , vulnerable and compelling new chapter for a new artist. Together with honest lyrics, sweet harmonies and potent style Labisi is a brilliant new star in the scene . From her sound being inspired by artists like SZA and Wizkid to writing and developing her craft from a young age and making the most out of nothing. Labisi is a stand out talent and blazing artist whose mix of Hip Hop, R&B and Afrobeats is a stunning and attractive listen. Labisi joined us to share more about her debut single and how it came about, she tells us about her inspirations growing up and about her advice for upcoming musical talent and also shares more on her upcoming music and news for the rest of the year..

Stream Labisi's debut single TLC on Spotify , Tidal , YouTube Music and Amazon Music

1) Hey Labisi, congratulations on your debut single TLC , it's a beautiful track

and we love it. Could you tell us about how it first came about ?

LABISI : Honestly it was just one of those days , I was in my feels about the guys I had been speaking too lately and felt unseen , unheard , unloved, being in my new single era I almost felt like I was trying to beg for attention from people who clearly didn't see my worth . That day Ezra (Producer) came straight up to me and said “ I have a beat for you and have labelled it in your name” As soon as she played it I loved it and had the hook instantly “All I need is a little bit of TLC” and that's how the magic started .

2) What do you hope listeners take from your song, do you want them to learn anything ?

LABISI : I think I made this song for the girlies ! or for anyone who feels down badly by someone when you're in your feelings just to sing along to it and feel seen and heard, I love soulful RNB and it comes naturally to me to create this style of music . I want them to hear that fire and passion I put into the song and just know sometimes you just have to let it all out and talk to yourself to know you deserve better !

3) You’ve delivered such a heartfelt song, who were some of your inspirations growing up in music, did any songwriters influence your debut single?

LABISI : I’m a big lover of RnB and Afrobeats I would say those are my top genres and the music I've grown up with .My inspirations are SZA and Wizkid - very different I know but there's something about SZAs music that really gets the girls in their feels , stuff we all go through with relationships day to day are relatable . I love Wizkid because I believe he's found the perfect sound blend of Afrobeats and RnB fused together. His music is timeless and always gets the people going .

4) Now we have to ask if you could collaborate with any 3 artists alive, who would they be and why ?

LABISI : No surprise SZA- she makes the type of relatable music people listen to and I think we live in a world where there's a lot of pretending , when it comes to your feelings it's hard to pretend so i just want to be unapologetically me and relatable . Wizkid - anything he jumps on just seems to work seamlessly and he just has a smooth Afrobeats vibe , the type that's consistent and timeless . The last one is hard. I think I have to say Drake or Beyonce - Drake has that perfect blend of singing and rapping ratio and his songs are nostalgic

.Beyonce, might be cliché but her performing skills alone I’d love to learn from

her she literally puts on a show ! something nobody can match till this day.

5) As a black talent coming up we know it hasn't been easy in the industry. What advice would you give the young generation who want to have success in the entertainment industry ?

LABISI : I'm just starting out myself but I'd probably say don't be afraid - I think in London especially were a very tight nit community and people don't necessarily support you right away until they see others do , you don't know where in the world your music will reach and who your fan base will be so just put out that song !There will always be judgement but be confident in yourself and keep consistent . I'd also say research is key ! There will always be

barriers but id say stay humble and be open to learn , grow and collaborate ,

you don't know everything!

6) Lastly, what can we expect from you moving forward, any more projects on

the way, maybe music videos, an upcoming EP or any live shows ?

LABISI : I'm hoping to eventually create an EP with some collabs from

emerging artists and release it maybe at the end of this year or early next

year. I'd love to do a music video ! . I'm a real dancer and would love to debut

this , fingers crossed ! I have a few live shows up and my next one should be

on August 15th hoping to confirm soon .

For news and updates follow Labisi on Instagram and Twitter