Helsinki-based artist i know her recently returned with her emotionally-charged new single “Smile On My Lips”, taken from her forthcoming debut EP At Least I Know How To Love, arriving May 22nd. Known for blending soft indie pop with cinematic electronic textures, the singer, songwriter, and producer continues to carve out a sound rooted in vulnerability, intimacy, and emotional honesty.
Originally written nearly three years ago as a simple living room demo, “Smile On My Lips” captures the quiet ache of unresolved feelings and the lingering weight of words left unsaid. Built around delicate, confessional verses before opening into sweeping, emotional choruses, the track reflects i know her’s ability to turn deeply personal experiences into something universally resonant.
With her debut EP set to explore the complexities of love, heartbreak, growth, and human connection, i know her is establishing herself as one of Finland’s most compelling emerging voices. So with “Smile On My Lips” out now, we sat down with her to learn more about her musical roots, creative process, and the inspirations that have shaped her journey so far.
What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
Probably my own voice! My mom has always said I had a really good sense of pitch as a child, and I was constantly singing. When I was around seven, I discovered Alicia Keys and begged my parents for piano lessons because I felt like I needed an instrument to accompany my voice.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
I’ve always listened more to international music than Finnish music which is probably why I’m aiming for an international career myself. My dad played a lot of Sting and Sade, and as a teenager I went through the classic teen phase of loving Justin Bieber and One Direction. Around that time, I also discovered alternative soul and R&B, which had a big impact on me. One thing that has always stayed the same is my love for ballads. They’ve always been my favourite kind of songs, no matter the album or genre.
What was the first album you remember owning?
When I was six, my cousin burned me Within Temptation’s The Silent Force album because I loved their music so much. They’re a symphonic metal band from the Netherlands, and I was fascinated by their dark, eerie, almost witchy or fairy-like music videos. I even had imaginary friends who dressed like the lead singer and had magical powers!
What is the one song you wish you could have written yourself?
Definitely Lover, Where Do You Live by Highasakite. It holds so much emotion in one song and it’s truly heartbreaking. I also love how the production builds and grows dynamically. I’ve always been drawn to songs like that, maybe because I’m such a hopeless romantic.
Do you have any habits or rituals when writing new music?
Not really, my process changes a lot. Sometimes I start with lyrics, sometimes with melody or production. But when it comes to lyrics, I do have one habit: I don’t usually sit down and write for hours. Instead, I write throughout the day, sometimes over several days. I keep the idea in my mind and add thoughts to my phone as they come. I might get a line on a tram or in a supermarket. If I try to force it by sitting down and focusing too hard, I often get stuck.
Who are your favourite artists right now?
I’ve been listening to a lot of Olivia Dean lately. She just doesn’t seem to make a bad song. It’s amazing to see how much she’s grown. I’ve also been listening to Charlotte Day Wilson a lot.
If you could open a show for anyone, who would it be?
Such a hard question but I choose Charlotte Day Wilson! I’ve never seen her live, but I would absolutely love to hear that voice in person. Opening for her would be a dream.
What is the most rewarding part of being a musician?
For me, it’s the creative phase of making music when you’re just letting ideas flow without overthinking or editing too much. It gives me a kind of high that I can’t get from anything else and it’s definitely the reason why I’m an artist.
And what is the most frustrating part?
Finishing songs. That’s when I start questioning everything. Whether the production is good enough, if I should change a lyric, or re-record vocals. It’s also when I start comparing my music to others, which can be really draining. That stage can drive me a bit crazy.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve received as a musician?
Honestly, I feel like I’ve heard a lot of advice that hasn’t necessarily helped me or maybe it just stuck with me more so nothing really comes to my mind. But I do have a piece of advice to give: don’t take every piece of advice or every “truth” about the music industry as absolute. We’re all different, and what works for one person won’t work for everyone. Especially in this industry, advice can sometimes feel discouraging or limiting. It’s important to trust yourself and choose what actually supports your own path.
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Stream her latest single in the player below.