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Jeremy Williams-Chalmers
Arts Correspondent
@jeremydwilliams
9:37 AM 7th October 2014
arts

Interview: Alla Ray

 
Alla Ray
Alla Ray
Alla Ray may not be a name you are immediately familiar with, but if you have been to any nightclub this summer, her voice is one you will immediately recognise.

Having teased the music world with her début single 'On Fire', her stunning dancefloor filler 'The Race' has won her an army of fans. We decided to find out what motivated her musical journey.

When did you first realize you wanted to make music?

That happened approximately 10 years ago when I decided to switch from being a professional dancer to singing because I suddenly realized that I cannot express everything I want just in dancing. I wanted more.

If you could go back to that day, what piece of advice would you give yourself?

Never get depressed. Control everything in the working process. Feel happy about each small achievement because that gives strength to go on. Enjoy every single moment. Laugh against the difficulties.

What is your writing process?

I need to feel comfortable. I always eat a lot when I write songs. Food wakes up my fantasies & emotions. A few slices of cake or bowl of pasta and the song is ready!

Where do you look for inspiration?

I get inspiration from everything that surrounds me. I make loads of notes. I love details. Small things that sometimes we don't pay attention to can become a hook of a new song. Phrases you can hear on the TV or on the tube can build a whole song. Basically everything that makes me feel can become my inspiration.



If your music were a person, what would their personality be? Where do you think it would live?

My music "person" would live in Los Angeles cause the whole atmosphere there is so relaxed & laid back. The personality of "my music person" would be insatiable, passionate, wild on one hand & sweet, tender and sensitive on the other. Something like a "bitter sweet symphony".

If you had to cite your biggest three influences, what would they be?

Michael Jackson, Ella Fitzgerald & Christina Aguilera. All these artists are unique in the performance style. They let you in "under their skin". It's the dearest moments that teach a lot.

What are your three favourite records of the moment?

I love Pharrell Williams song "Happy" cause it's simple & catchy. Also "Chandelier" by Sia has a chorus that I love, "I'm gonna swing from the chandelier, from the chandelier" - such a freedom in these lyrics! And finally

Ed Sheeran "Sing" is great as it's so groovy & sexy!

What song do you wish you had written?

Avicii "I'm addicted to you" - amazing lyrics, melody & that beat! I sung a cover of this song during my latest UK Radio tour. Soon I'm going to upload it on my Youtube channel so I hope you'll enjoy!

If you could collaborate with any living artist, who would it be?

There is a new artist at the moment who's getting bigger & bigger in the charts all over the world - Sam Smith - I love his unusual vocals. Plus he is so sensual. I think we could record some really cool song together.

Touring is a big part of a musicians life, what are your tour must haves?

Warm blankets, slippers, thermos with hot tea & spaghetti with olive oil!

What makes a good live show?

First of all, a good sound system, professional team backstage & an artist who enjoys the moment. But the most important part of the show is the audience - the people who love & support you. That's such a vibe. It's the best drug ever.

What has been your favourite performance to date?

Probably one of my best performances was in the USA at Boston pride. There were so many happy people full of love. After my gig they were coming up to me till the end of the day sharing their emotions about my songs, telling their life stories and asking for autographs. That was one of the most unforgettable gigs ever.