Leon of Athens – Global

By starrymag | May 22, 2020

By: Courtney Groom

 

 

Q) What was the inspiration behind your song “Communication?”

 

A) The reality of social media gratification. Swiping up for “medication.”

 

Q) Talk about getting to write this single with David Sneddon.

 

A) I wrote it with David Sneddon and Katerine Duska who is also featured on it, in Corfu during my last summer vacation. We really make a great team. They are two of my favorite people to work with. We profoundly understand each other and it’s always effortless when we get into a studio together.

 

Q) What were any challenges your faced when writing and recording the single?

 

A) It was something new for me and there was a lot of exploring. I wanted to try the kind of pop direction I hadn’t so far and find my voice and sound within this new frame. Really enjoyed the process.

 

Q) What do you want your fans and listeners to take away when listening to this song?

 

A) Hope it sparks a discussion!

 

Q) We already have a lyric video out for “Communication,” but will there be a video coming soon and what visuals do you have planned for it?

 

A) We started shooting the video, but were unable to complete it due to the severity of the situation. We are working on releasing it soon though.  Also, just released a remix of the track by Portugal. The Man! A completely reinvented version of the song. I’ll be forever thankful to them and to my manager Eva who put us in touch. Go check it out, it’s quite special!

 

Q) How does this single show how you have grown as an artist?

 

A) That’s never for me to judge but for the audience.  I don’t like staying comfortable for too long and every new record has its challenges and experimentation process. I feel the need to always keep my creative process fresh and I only hope that that translates to my audience.

 

Q) What is your songwriting process like?

 

A) It basically starts by bringing together certain words with certain melodies and rhythms. A lot of trial and error involved. A hint of an idea that goes through many different stages before it develops into a song.

 

Q) Your debut album Global features songs based on some person upheavals such as broken relationships, youth and death. Was it always your intention when become an artist to incorporate your own life stories into your music?

 

A) I wouldn’t say intention, but more of an emotional necessity and natural process.

 

Q) The music industry has changed a lot over the years – with now online streaming services. Would you say it makes it easier or harder for you to get your music out there for people from around the world to listen to?

 

A) Much easier!

 

Q) You’ve covered a lot of different music styles in the past couple of years including piano-led ballads. Why is it important for you to not stick to one kind of style?

 

A) I think it’s important to take risks. It helps me grow. It keeps the fire burning. Creating should be fun and exciting. It should never feel too familiar.

 

Q) Who are some artists you are inspired by and look up to?

 

A) Sufjan Stevens, Francis and the light, Billie Eilish and Finneas O’Connell, James Blake, Lorde, Lykke Li.

 

Q) Fans are wondering if you ever consider taking part in Eurovision?

 

A) I wrote Greece’s entry “Better Love” with Katerine Duska and David Sneddon. I was part of Kat’s journey throughout every step of the way and experienced it vicariously. It was a crazy and unique experience and right now I feel that it was enough for me.

 

Q) What would you like to say to fans and supporters of you and your music?

 

A) I’d like to thank them for their love and support and wish them strength, health and positivity throughout these very difficult times.