When confidence comes wrapped in rhinestones and emotional clarity sounds like a singalong, you’re probably in Stella Lain’s world. The rising UK pop-country artist returns with 'Out of My Hair', a sparkling, straight-talking anthem about reclaiming self-worth after a frustrating situationship. Upbeat, catchy, and playfully cathartic, the track is everything you’d want from a hairbrush karaoke moment with just enough bite to leave a mark.
Known for blending heartfelt storytelling with an infectious country-pop edge, Stella Lain is fast becoming one of the UK’s most exciting voices in modern country. Her latest single follows the success of her debut EP 'Stella', recent festival appearances, and accolades like ‘Female Artist of the Year’ from the Shout Out Pod.
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?
I always wanted to play guitar, so I taught myself when I was around 11 years old. Acoustic guitar has always felt especially beautiful to me. However, the instrument I love the most (even though I don’t play it) is the banjo. I love country music, and I think the banjo has such a fun, lively, and charming sound. It makes me feel good when I hear it, I always describe it to be a happy sounding instrument.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
It’s always been Country for me. The songs I was always drawn to would have a kind of country influence. I grew up listening to Taylor Swift and was obsessed with her first 3 albums as well of course love the Queen that is Dolly Parton and Shania Twain they were huge influences on my music. My parents have a broad taste in music, so I grew up listening to music from many genres and eras but Country was always my favourite.
What was the first album you remember owning?
I think the first album I remember growing up listening to was Shania Twain Come on Over. My mum would play it a lot in the car. But the first albums I ever owned myself were Miley Cyrus ‘Time of our lives’ and Taylor Swift’s Fearless. Taylor’s early music really shaped me as a songwriter and musician and it was Fearless and her debut album that inspired me to learn guitar and write.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
That’s a really tough question, there are so many incredible songs I’m obsessed with. But if I had to choose just one, it would have to be ‘Enchanted’ by Taylor Swift. The song is truly iconic; it captures a whimsical, fairytale-like moment, that feeling of meeting someone you have a crush on for the very first time and being left in a magical, giddy whirl.
My favourite part of the song is, where she sings, “Please don’t be in love with someone else, please don’t have somebody waiting on you,” before building into the final chorus, it has such a great impact. It perfectly captures the feeling of being “enchanted” in every sense of the word. As you can tell, her music has a huge influence on me.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
For me, songwriting can happen at any time or in any moment. I don’t really have a set routine, if creativity or inspiration hits, it hits, and I’m suddenly on a roll. If I get a tune in my head, I go straight to my voice memos, and if I get an idea or a lyric, you can bet I’m already writing it down in my notes.
While I’m writing a new song, I try to picture how each instrumental layer will sound in my head. Is there a certain riff I want? Where would I place backing vocals? Every song has its own personality, so when I sit down to write, I think about what kind of attitude or emotion I’m trying to express and choose chords and lyrics that fit the vibe and the narrative.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
Obviously, I listen to a lot of Taylor Swift, her songs are always in my playlist somewhere. Her music has always inspired me. Her songwriting is incredible; listening to her music feels like listening to a friend. The way she captures emotions so perfectly through her lyricism is truly amazing.
But I would have to say that lately, though, I’ve been listening to a lot of Emily Ann Roberts. She’s a country singer, and I’m completely obsessed with her wholesome, country-girl vibe. I also love how her music holds a bit of sass too, with songs such as “He Set Her Off”, that song always gives me a bit of Legally Blonde vibes, I can just imagine Elle Woods singing it. Another song that gives me the exact same impression is “Sting” by Bellah Mae, it’s such a fun song for a confidence boost.
I will also forever be listening to Carrie Underwood, her songs ‘Before He Cheats’ and ‘Cowboy Casanova’ are my go to songs to sing in the car songs. You can just belt them as loud as possible and it’s like anger management. I love her Country Rock style and the way that her songs have so much grit. She’s got so many great songs to rage to, you’ve got to love it.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
It would have to be Taylor Swift of course. I think that would be a moment I would never forget. Being able to open for someone I look up to, like Dolly Parton or Shania Twain, would also be an absolute dream. I’m grateful for every opportunity I get.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
The most rewarding part of being a musician is having your music be heard. Knowing that people listen to my music and enjoy it makes me incredibly happy. But discovering that people truly relate to it, understand it, and sing along with it, well that’s something beyond words. It means the world to me. That kind of connection is truly magical, and being able to connect with people through music is my favourite part of all.
And what is the most frustrating part?
Probably not being taken seriously. I’ve often felt like I’ve been put inside a box or people underestimate me. I’ve noticed that some people don’t like seeing others chase their dreams, but instead of letting people bring me down with mean words or comments, I use it as motivation to push myself even harder.
Another frustrating thing is when I get an idea for a song while I’m driving. I’ll try to find somewhere safe to pull over so I can record it, but that’s not always possible when I’ve got somewhere to be. When that happens, I end up turning off the radio and humming or singing the song on a continuous loop for the rest of the journey, hoping I don’t forget it. The worst part is when you get a great idea or line and one small distraction makes it disappear, that’s incredibly frustrating.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
Be true to yourself, don’t let anyone tell you can’t, don’t let anyone say it’s too hard. Sometimes the most beautiful views come from the most challenging climb.
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Stella Lain's new single 'Out Of My Hair' is out now. Check it out in the player below.