At just 22, Romanian-born singer-songwriter Michelle Sara is already mastering the art of vulnerability. Now based in London and steadily emerging as a unique voice in the alt-pop and singer-songwriter space, she blends intimate balladry with nostalgic textures and a featherlight vocal touch that carries emotional weight well beyond her years.
Her latest single 'Forever' is a testament to that gift, a gentle, atmospheric track that captures the ache of acceptance with elegance and restraint. Written as a means of finding closure, it’s a song that invites us into her emotional world while offering the kind of universal sentiment that lingers long after the music fades.
So with the new single available now, we sat down with her to find out more about her origins and what has been inspiring her most over the years.
-
What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
The first instrument I fell in love with, but never had the chance to learn, was the pan flute. When I was around six years old, I used to watch YouTube videos of people playing it, completely fascinated by its sound. I even remember my parents taking me to a concert by the renowned pan flute player Gheorghe Zamfir. My dad also once took me to a teacher to learn how to play, but I was told I was too young at the time, and it became a long-forgotten dream.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
When I was younger, I was deeply drawn to the music I heard in TV shows and films. Once I started singing lessons, I became attached to almost everything my teacher gave me to learn. I especially remember loving Beyoncé’s songs and music videos, which I would watch over and over again.
What was the first album you remember owning?
The first album I remember owning was “I Look to You” by Whitney Houston on CD. It was her last studio album, and I remember my mother buying it for me at a gas station. She was a huge Whitney Houston fan, and I think that’s where my love for Whitney came from. I also remember watching “The Bodyguard” with my mum and loving to sing her biggest hit, “I Will Always Love You.”
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
That’s such a good question. I think it was “Vienna” by Billy Joel. I’ve always loved that song - it’s a masterpiece. Maybe it’s because I was born there as well, but whenever everything feels like too much to handle, that song makes everything better.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
Before I start a new song, I do a free-writing, stream-of-consciousness exercise. I write down everything I feel without overthinking it. After that, I look for the best ideas and start connecting them to create a narrative.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
My favorite artists at the moment are Jessie J, Olivia Dean and Raye.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
If I could open a show for anyone right now, it would be Jessie J for sure. I love her energy, her incredible voice, and the way she owns the stage. Opening for her would be such an exciting and inspiring experience.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
The most rewarding part of being a musician for me is the way music can connect with people. Even though I’m still early in my career, something that made me feel like I’ve really made it - and I know this may sound silly - was seeing people come to my shows and sing along to my songs, knowing the lyrics. It was such an amazing feeling.
And what is the most frustrating part?
The most frustrating part of being a musician is the uncertainty, especially with the big pressure to succeed. You put so much into your music and your career, and not knowing how or when it will pay off can be really stressful. But I think that pressure also pushes me to grow and keep improving.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
The best piece of advice I’ve received as a musician is… just have fun with it!!! Music should be something you love creating, not something that feels like a chore. That mindset keeps me inspired and reminds me why I started in the first place.
-
Michelle Sara's new single 'Forever' is available to stream now. Check it out in the player below.