We’re thrilled to welcome Loren Heat, a rising star in the queer-pop scene, to discuss their latest single ‘Want It All’. Released via Quiet Crown, this anthemic track is the final teaser for Loren’s eagerly awaited debut EP, Scarlet Haze, coming soon on August 9th. With influences from artists like Dua Lipa and Robyn, Loren’s music captures the emotional complexities of love and vulnerability. Join us as we delve into their inspirations, the journey behind ‘Want It All’, and the unique voice Loren brings to the North East’s LGBTQIA+ community.
Welcome to Unrecorded! Since this is your first time with us, can you introduce yourself?
Of course, I’m Loren and I am a pop artist from the North East of England!
Let’s dive right in and talk about your single ‘Want It All’, what does this single mean to you?
This single means a lot, being honest with you I feel like this is the song where I have truly let go. My lyrics feel very vulnerable in terms of relationships and it really feels like I’m starting to solidify what is ‘my sound’.
Why do you think that love continues to be one of the most prevalent themes in songwriting?
Because we all feel it, in one way or another. No matter if it’s love for family, a hobby, place or like in this case a partner. It’s an emotion that keeps everyone connected because we can all relate to it in one way or another. Not just that but it’s such a raw emotion, it really makes you feel everything deeper.
What’s your songwriting process like?
It seems to be different every time. ‘Curiosity’ took a while because I couldn’t stick with one thing. But I think that may have been because of it being my debut. ‘Breathe (SOS)’ came in half because I had to dig deep to get the true emotions so it took a minute because I wasn’t ready to re-enter that headspace. But we got this one done in just over an hour because it just came so quick and I was in a rather love-y mood.
How have some of your major music inspirations, like Renee Rapp, Dua lipa, Alfie Jukes, Years and Years, Rita Ora and Mabel, influenced your sound?
Oh my god, in so many different ways, from the way they write to the way their instrumentals sound, their music could have the most gut wrenching lyrics but you know you’re going to be dancing because their sound is so intoxicating. And that’s what I want to bring to my discography.
Who would be your dream collaboration?
No, cos I LOVE the idea of collaborating, being able to combine two peoples ideas and vocals etc. to me is such a fun idea, I really love listening to collabs. As for my dream collab? I am gonna have to cheat a few, I’d love to do a folk collab with Noah Kahan, I’d love to work with Chappell Roan, Dua Lipa, Renee Rapp, there’s so many!
Who are some newer bands and artists currently on your listening rotation right now?
Alfie Jukes, Slayyyter, and Catty are my three favourite new/underrated artists for sure. It links to the previous question though because I’d love to work with all three of these artists too.
As a member of the LGBTQAI+ community, has music helped you navigate your identity and find connection with others?
Yes, I really love ‘Gay Pop’, you know, Gaga, Madonna, Kesha, Dua Lipa etc. and clubs used to really bother me because I felt the music rarely gave what should be given in a club. So I preferred to spend my time in gay clubs, I used to go with like one friend and I began to make so many new friends who helped find who I was and this has had an influence on the music I produce today.
You’re also from England’s north east, what’s the music scene like there?
It’s very independent and it’s also heavily dominated by bands. Talented bands at that, indie and Rock primarily. There’s also a growing rap scene which I can see continuing to grow. It feels a bit odd being a musician from such a large genre of music but then not having many local artists of the same suit.
Do you have any advice for fellow or future songwriters who want to branch out of their comfort zone?
Be vulnerable. Don’t be scared to wear your heart on your sleeve because you wouldn’t believe how many people will relate to it. Be honest, be open. Or on the other hand, take a risk, create a story, take on an alter ego if you want to try a different form of writing. I did my final uni piece researching songwriting and methods and such and there’s so much you can do and so many directions. Sit with yourself, what do you want? How do you feel? Just write.
And lastly, what can fans expect from Loren Heat this year?
This year? Ooo people can expect an EP, I have a 5 track EP released on August 9th, with two new tracks, and hopefully a lot more shows!
You can also listen to ‘Want It All’ in our Shades of Pop playlist.
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