Armenian singer-songwriter Lenush Saf is embarking on a new chapter of her musical journey, returning to the studio after years spent developing a creative career across digital communications and fashion. Born in Yerevan and introduced to piano and singing at an early age, Saf first released original music in 2008 before pursuing other opportunities, although her passion for songwriting never disappeared.
Her latest single ‘Lipstick’ marks a confident return to music and introduces the direction of her forthcoming debut solo album. Blending contemporary dance-pop with club-inspired production, hypnotic synths and expressive vocals, the track balances intimate moments with infectious rhythmic energy, while incorporating subtle influences from her Armenian heritage.
So with the new single out now, we sat down with her to find out more about her origins and what has been inspiring her most over the years.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
The voice. I know this may not be the most conventional response, but it’s the truth. I find the fact that a human voice can produce melodies the way that an object can astonishing. However, some of my other favourite instruments are the violin, saxophone, electric and acoustic guitars and piano.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
Pop music was always my go-to. Probably just like many little girls at the time. I loved pop ballads the most.
What was the first album you remember owning?
Christina Aguilera, Stripped.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
Oh wow. This is a tough one, coz there are so many. But I will go with one of my own, which is a very personal story which in fact, was not written by me. But the storyline is word for word related to me and an experience in my life, so I wish and almost feel like I had written it, even though I haven’t. it’s called Heartless, and will be my next release.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
Not at all. I identify a topic or point that I want to relay and then it often comes out in one breath, however I often go back to my lyrics to make edits to them. My lyrics are literal stories, so the first draft is not always befitting an actual commercial song. This is why I don’t write all of my songs myself, some are just too personal for now.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
I don’t listen to music that often funnily enough, but I would say I am an Ed Sheeran fan, Dua Lipa, Miley Cyrus, recently I started enjoying Ariana Grande's music too. I absolutely love Raye, what a voice! Benson Boone is also incredible.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
I couldn’t say. There are so many in credible artists, I respect what each one does, this is a tough business to be in and especially succeed in. so it would be an honour to open for anyone of them. But I suppose for the sake of this interview I would say Christina Aguilera, or Adele.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
Hearing the finished song. This is something I have just discovered, but what I find most rewarding is hearing the finished song. Not even the release, or the music video but hearing the actual finished version of a song that we worked on for however long. Its an incredible feeling.
And what is the most frustrating part?
Not being able to deliver the way that I can or want due to circumstances out of my control. For example, getting ill, or technical issues. Basically if I am unable to deliver a performance whether live or in the studio for any reason is the most frustrating to me.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
To enjoy the process and to do what I love. Not to listen to others more than to myself. This advice has proven to be very helpful and truthful.
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Lenush Saf's new single 'Lipstick' is out now. Check it out in the player below.