Despite performing and showcasing her work throughout the capital over the last few years, London-based singer and songwriter Izzie Yardley is now ready to introduce herself to the world with the release of her stunning debut single 'Aurelia'.
With its light yet uplifting aesthetic, 'Aurelia' makes for a truly impressive initial piece from the artist. With its soft and sweeping flow, mixed effortlessly with her bright and heartfelt vocal performance, her debut delight makes for an incredibly fresh and captivating listen throughout.
So with her first piece of material dazzling us throughout, we sat down with her to find out more about her earliest beginnings and what has set her on this path into the music industry.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
Probably the cello or the trumpet. I can’t play either. The first instrument I learnt was the oboe.
What has been the most prominent inspiration behind your music so far?
People and the way we interact with each other, life and death. Almost too many musicians to name, but lately I’ve been inspired by listening to things like Adrianne Lenker, Villagers, Radiohead and Marvin Gaye.
What kind of music did you love as a teenager?
I had a Skunk Anansie/Red Hot Chilli Peppers/Smashing Pumpkins kind of phase. But I also remember little obsessions with people like Etta James, Paolo Nutini, Feist.
Can you remember the first song that made you want to pursue a life in music?
It was actually probably the piece ‘Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis,’ by Vaughan Williams. As a child once I walked into a room where it was playing on the radio. All of a sudden I found myself sitting on the floor in tears. I thought that was magic and decided that’s what life was meant for.
When you wake up in the morning, what kind of music do you like to listen to?
If I wake up sad and want to stay sad maybe Nick Drake or Jono McCleery. If I wake up sad and want to be happy it might be Flyte. If I just wake up happy it might be Haim, ‘Wake Up Boo’ by The Boo Radleys, or ‘The Shoop Shoop Song,’ the Betty Everett version.
How many of your songs have you written about people in your life?
Probably only a handful are exclusively, consciously written about people I know. Usually it might allude to someone or an experience from real life but often I only realise that after I’ve written it.
What has been the most memorable moment in your career so far?
Playing Union Chapel, both times. It was my bucket list venue when I first started gigging. Also finally releasing my first track Aurelia the other week, it took me 5 years to feel ready and now I don’t really want to stop.
Outside of music, what is your biggest passion?
People, nature, food.
If you weren’t a musician, what other path do you think you might have taken?
I’ve been a chef, baker, chocolatier, worked in immersive theatre, film. These days I’d be tempted to move into something like ocean conservation.
And what advice would you give to other musicians looking to start a career in music?
Go out and play live, if that’s your thing, as often as you possibly can. Surround yourself with the right kind of people and trust your gut.
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Izzie Yardley's new single 'Aurelia' is available to stream and download now. Have a listen to it in the player below.