SWEDEN HAS FOUND A NEW POP GEM IN LÉON

In 2015, it seems Sweden continues to be the mecca for burgeoning pop musicians. Joining the likes of Robyn, Tove Lo and Seinabo Sey is soulful pop musician LÉON. The up-and-comer released her debut EP Treasure back in October and is finishing up her record for a release this summer. In case you’re not sold on her yet, the 21-year-old singer has even found a fan in Katy Perry, which definitely carries weight.

See why LÉON is about to be your favorite pop musician below.

On the success of “Tired of Talking”: I never expected the success [of the song]. That was the first song I released…ever. When I put it out, I thought it would get 500 plays, so I was really shocked and surprised by the response. It was amazing!

Her influences: I’ve always been very inspired by old Motown songs like Stevie Wonder and Etta James. Some artists today I love are Lana Del Rey, Adele and Amy Winehouse, of course.

Plans for 2016: In February, I’m going to start playing shows in late February, so I’m looking forward to that. I’m going to play a bit in the U.S. and a bit in Europe. Then I’m going to finish my album, which I’m trying to do now. Hopefully it’ll be out in mid-summer.

How she started making music: I grew up in a family of mainly musicians, so I’ve always been making music in different ways. With this project, I’ve just started making songs with friends in music school two years ago. That’s where I met my producer Agrin Rahmani who I made “Tired Of Talking” with. All of the songs on my EP I started writing when I met Agrin at music school.

On the Swedish music scene: I love Seinabo Sey. I think she’s awesome. I’ve always liked Lykke Li, and Tove Lo, of course.

Biggest vice: That’s a tough question. It’s super awesome, but I’d say coffee and gum. I’ve basically broken my jaw so I can’t chew anymore gum ever. I love gum though!

Dream artists to collaborate with: I would love to perform with Sam Smith and Lana Del Rey. That would be cool. I just like how they express themselves musically. I’d love to play with Sam Smith because he comes from such a soulful background.