HARLEA

Having released her third single, Beautiful Mess, Harlea has become one of the UK’s most exciting rising stars having gained huge support from the likes of Amazing Radio, BBC Introducing and music giant, Spotify. Living between the UK and LA, Harlea returned to England recently in celebration of the new single, which also saw her perform at the incredible Lexington in London.

With us always enjoying discovering new talent here at Darkus, we caught up with this talented lady to find out more about all the great things that are happening so far.

You must be feeling pretty happy to have released Beautiful Mess?

It has been so exciting. The response, especially to the video we put out for it has been great to see.

Amazing Radio named your track number 1 on their charts. How did that make you feel?

I was so surprised. I wasn’t expecting it at all, especially when I found out they had made it number 1 two weeks in a row. When I heard the news I was like “Woah, hold up what did you just say?!” haha.

The support doesn’t just come from Amazing Radio though as your music has been featured on Spotify’s New Music Friday playlist. That must be pretty special?

It was so incredible. To be on the same playlist alongside such talented artists was like a dream come true.

Your video features poets Robert Montgomery and Greta Bellamaciana., how did that partnership come about?

Well we have been friends for a long time. I love the whole idea of being inspired by art and creativity so for this song especially it was a good opportunity to think outside the box and have a little bit more fun with the creative process.

When do you feel most creative then?

It is a funny one because for me personally it can happen by surprise, or sometimes when I step away and do something different. For example I could be standing in a queue or in the middle of a conversation with someone, then all of a sudden I will have one of those little light bulb eureka moments haha.

December sees you playing at the Lexington in London in partnership with BBC Introducing. How much do you enjoy opportunities like that?

The first time I played in London was a really good show, so it is good to be able to return to a city such as London. I think as well with it being the capital there is a different kind of energy each time you go to a show.

Before Beautiful Mess you also released two previous tracks such as Miss Me and You Don’t Get It. Do you feel each of your songs have their own identity?

Yea I would say so. Each single show a different part of who I am, whilst still reflecting the same person.

What was it like to team up with the fabulous team Rock Mafia when it came to producing the latest single?

Rock Mafia are so good at what they do. We worked together after I had written the song itself and we were able to come up with a finished track which had their important input but still represented who I am.

How important is it to have a team around you that understands and respects your vision?

To be honest there were moments where it was hard to understand what I wanted, and I almost quit even before I had started. There were certainly times where I had to wrestle with myself. However when it came to Beautiful Mess especially I was fortunate to have such a good team around me. Even though it may have been tempting to throw in the towel, I am glad I didn’t give into my doubts and just stuck it out.

Do you feel that you and music have always been friends?

Haha we have had a couple of heated chats with each other for sure, but in the most part it is also a output for my feelings. I am into a wide mix of genres too which helps to channel the energy into some positive.

What are the next steps in your journey?

I would hopefully like to do an EP or even an album. Also more music and shows, especially here in the UK.

What would you say to any new fans out there who have just discovered your music?

Firstly hi nice to meet you! Then second get your foot tapping and help spread the beat haha!

If you haven’t already, be sure to check out the latest single, Beautiful Mess. Also to stay up to date with all the news about her incredible journey head over to www.harleamusic.com for more info.

Article By Thushara