A Q&A with Leonie Jakobi
Raw Rock, Honest Words…
What’s the title of your latest release, and what does it mean to you?
My latest single is called ‘I Deserve to Shine’ and it’s about allowing yourself to be happy and fulfilled without making yourself smaller. Some of the lyrics are affirmations I had to keep telling myself until I believed them. Some people get triggered by others’ happiness and want to dim their light, but I believe staying happy is much harder. I want the song to feel like a reminder that it’s okay to take up space and enjoy your life.
What was the hardest part about putting this release together, and why?
The hardest part was the years before deciding to do it. Figuring out who you are as a person and artist, who to work with, and how you want to work—that’s the tough part. Writing and recording the song was easy in comparison. Hearing the first mix was a “that’s it, this is me” moment.
Who produced the release – what did they bring to it?
The song was produced by Alec Brits in Liverpool, with Tom Wright on guitar and bass. Alec is a fantastic drummer and producer and knew exactly what I wanted ‘I Deserve to Shine’ to sound and feel like.
What do you want the listener to take away from listening to your music?
I want them to be smiling from ear to ear, a little exhausted from dancing and singing along, and then to put on the outfit they were too shy to wear and go out into the world having a great time and feeling like a badass!
How does a track normally come together? Can you tell us something about the process?
I usually write all my songs myself, starting with chords on the guitar and some lyric or melody ideas. Once I’ve got a draft, I go into the studio with a producer to work on structure and arrangement ideas. We record everything ourselves or bring in musicians, and then it’s off to mixing and mastering.
What band/artists have influenced you the most since you started this project, and why?
Definitely Bruce Springsteen. He’s always been my favourite artist. His songs feel like the kind of happiness you experience after going through hard times. His concerts are so full of excitement, and everyone sings like they’ve written the songs themselves. That’s what I want to achieve too.
What countries would you like to tour? Are there any standout venues you’d like to play in?
I’d love to tour the US one day. Red Rocks looks amazing, The Ryman Auditorium would be a dream, and The Stone Pony in New Jersey would satisfy my Springsteen obsession.
If you could pick one track for our readers to listen to in order to get a taste of your music, what would you pick, and why?
My latest single ‘I Deserve to Shine’ says everything I need to say. Come and join us while being your brightest, shiniest self. We’re excited to have you here!
What ambitions do you have for your career?
I’m already doing everything I always wanted to do. I’m making music I love, releasing records, and playing gigs. Everything that happens now is a bonus.
Finally, as you leave the stage, what are your parting words?
Keep shining and always stay excited! Thank you!
For more info about Leonie Jakobi, visit leoniejakobi.com or follow her on Instagram.
