Leigh-Anne Offers Exclusive Track-by-Track Analysis of Debut Solo Album
In a revealing new episode of the popular interview series Making The Album, Leigh-Anne provides an in-depth breakdown of every song from her debut solo record My Ego Told Me To. The Capital Buzz podcast, hosted by Sam Prance, features the artist discussing the creative process, personal inspirations, and the journey to independence that shaped the album.
From Group Member to Independent Solo Artist
Leigh-Anne opens up about the significant transition from being part of Little Mix to establishing herself as an independent artist. She credits musicians like RAYE and Tinashe for inspiring her to take control of her career. "I think there comes a point where, if it's not feeling good in your soul, you have to leave your label," she explains regarding her decision to go independent. "I think you only get one shot at your debut album, and it just had to be, I didn't want compromise."
The artist also shares personal insights about feeling more understood internationally than in the UK, her Caribbean heritage, and even reveals her top three Rihanna songs of all time. Additionally, she discusses which hits were almost recorded by Little Mix, offering fans a glimpse into alternative music history.
Track-by-Track Album Breakdown
Leigh-Anne meticulously analyzes each song from the twelve-track album, providing context about lyrics, production, and personal significance.
- Look Into My Eyes: "This track is all about taking up space. It's really unexpected and I love that. The drop after the reggae breakdown comes out of nowhere. This is me. Don't put me in a box. Don't label me."
- Dead and Gone: Focuses on resilience and emotional journey. "Having all of that confidence growing up and that younger version who wouldn't take no for an answer. I think sometimes the outside world can batter that out of you, especially being in this industry."
- Revival: Centers on trusting her instincts. "This whole era for me is about trusting my gut."
- Been A Minute: Described as her summer banger and reentry moment. "For me as an independent artist, it just felt like the 'I'm back' moment. It's just so high energy and an absolute bop."
- Goodbye Goodmorning: Represents her pop style with R&B and electric guitar elements. "It's just so sexy. I always knew I wanted a track with this feel."
- Burning Up: Expresses personal freedom and sexuality. "I am a 34 year old woman. I have sex and I like to feel sexy. I like to feel like the most wanted. Now it's like, there are no rules."
- Most Wanted (feat. Valiant & Rvssian): Discusses the collaborative process and label challenges. "We literally FaceTimed Valiant and he wrote his verse then and there. I played it to the label and they weren't feeling it."
- Best Version of Me: Addresses mental health and authenticity. "'Best Version of Me' is talking about my mental health. The best version of me is just me being my truest self and not having to listen to opinions."
- Me Minus U: A personal song about her relationship. "My husband Andre listened to the album and sent me notes. 'Me Minus U' is all about not wanting to be without that person."
- Sunrise: One of few tracks from her Warner period. "There were some that I was like, 'I cannot part from this song'. Warner still get a percentage but I own my own masters."
- You ARE a star: Incorporates family heritage with her grandfather's words. "I wanted to get the sentiment of my granddad saying, 'What makes a Pinnock strong?' Having my grandparents on the album makes everything make sense."
- FREE: Responds to genre criticism on TikTok. "A lot of people talk without even knowing anything. I'm just staying in my lane. When I think back to 'Wings', I had the Jamaican colors behind me."
Creative Freedom and Personal Expression
Throughout the interview, Leigh-Anne emphasizes the importance of creative freedom and personal authenticity. She discusses blocking out unnecessary criticism and focusing on her artistic vision. "It's just nice to be understood and not feel like I have to prove anything or explain myself," she states regarding her musical direction.
The album represents a significant milestone in her career, blending various influences while maintaining a cohesive personal narrative. Fans can access the full interview episode on Global Player and other podcast platforms for additional insights into the making of My Ego Told Me To.
