After breaking through with her much-loved debut single 'Why Are We Still Here' last month, fast-rising artist SONIQUE is back once again to deliver her vibrant sophomore effort 'Marinade'.
Adopting more of that rich and glossy pop aesthetic she is quickly earning a reputation for, 'Marinade' makes for a dazzling return for her. With her sweet and supple vocals spread across a shimmering production throughout, she continues her rise as one of the more immersive names emerging right now.
So with the new single available to stream 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 guitar was the first instrument I fell in love with.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
It would definitely be the classic 80's hits and early 2000's hits. I grew up and loved listening to the Doors, Depeche mode, Queen, Yazoo,Tracy Chapman, Black Eyed Peas, Nelly Furtado, Britney Spears, Coldplay, Adam Lambert ,One Direction, Justin Bieber, Hannah Montana.
What was the first album you remember owning?
Hannah Montana Soundtrack Album
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
Wow this is a tough one . I would definitely say Runaway by Aurora, everything about that song is well written, the song takes me to another place.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
Yes I do, I love to light an incense and start jamming on my guitar a bit to get in the feel for creating. Not all the time though, it's quite funny because I'm constantly thinking of melodies and lyrics no matter where I am, so I always disappear at random times just to quickly record in my phone's recorder so I don't forget, even when I'm driving (that's when I get the most inspiration).
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
Lately it's been Aurora, Tash Sultana, Olivia Dean, Jacob Lee, Arctic Monkeys,Rainbow Kitten Surprise ,Hvob, Stimming, FKJ, Elderbrook, Le Good Life,Prince Kaybee, Kabza de Small and DJ Maphorisa.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
It would be an honour to open for Coldplay.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
People connecting to the lyrics of my music and feeling heard and not alone when listening to my music.
And what is the most frustrating part?
I would say recording my demos at home. My family is very loud but it's cool my dad made me a light outside my bedroom door, so now everyone knows I'm recording and that I need silence.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
Be myself and don't change my music to suite others, stay authentic and be real.
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SONIQUE's new single 'Marinade' is available to stream now. Check it out in the player below.