Sarai Pinney
Electronic music is a diverse world with a wide range of genres and sounds that resonate with audiences globally. The North of England has a rich history in electronic music, particularly in the Drum and Bass, Jungle, and Garage scenes, making it a renowned hub for electronic music. Artists such as IAMDDB, Nia Archives, and Children of Zeus have made a name for themselves by exploring various musical landscapes and creating unique sounds.
Manchester is home to many underground electronic artists, including Singer-Songwriter Laeeqa, who has gone through a rebranding process and is currently experimenting with new sounds and styles. For many artists, exploring different musical genres is essential to showcase their versatility and connect with their listeners. Laeeqa's latest single, 'Falling,' produced by Manchester-based producer Benwa, is a testament to her musical growth, featuring emotional lyricism and an upbeat electronic/garage-inspired instrumental.
Throughout her musical journey, the 24-year-old musician, born in Leeds and now based in Manchester, has always been drawn towards emotional vulnerability and emotive lyricism. Her single 'Be Mine' portrays a romantic yet tumultuous relationship, taking listeners on a journey of self-discovery, love, and vulnerability. The titles of her songs are symbolic and offer insight into her journey and evolution as a musician. 'Blossom' (2021), which parallels the sonics of her most recent single 'Falling,' showcases her growth. The soft melody creates a meditative, healing vibration, infused with the subtle sound waves and essences of Jungle and Drum and Bass, transporting listeners on a journey of self-exploration, whether on the dancefloor or in the comfort of their homes.
Northern artists tend to acquire the natural skill of experimenting with lyrics and sounds that originated and were created in the cities while staying true to their roots. The lyrics of "Falling" almost pay an ode to the platonic side of being in a relationship with someone unwilling to listen to the emotions that could be explored if taken further, "I can't keep on chasing you after all that we've been through, so please tell me what I'm supposed to do without you." The burgeoning Drum and Bass scene showcases the genre's multidimensionality for growing interdisciplinary musicians such as Laeeqa.
Listen to 'Falling' here...