Nashville-based Leah Mason is pop music's next rising star. Crossing datelines and genre boundaries, she traveled to Sweden last year to work with producer Simon Jonasson on her debut album, HEXED.
HEXED embodies the chaotic concoction of emotions and changes of young adulthood. The LP opens with a bang, with gritty guitars and an anthemic chorus so catchy you can't help but shout along:"one time is a fluke / twice is just bad luck / but three times is a pattern and I'm sitting here like, f***." Mason keeps the mood high with "Kissing Friends", which contains another standout chorus melody. "Dime Bag" brings out another, more vulnerable tone.
"one time is a fluke / twice is just bad luck / but three times is a pattern and I'm sitting here like, f***"
The track showcases the artist's multidimensionality through a beautiful vocal performance. Another stripped-down moment, "Everything's Gonna Be Alright" is a musical breath before the energy picks back up again. "Spirits" takes listeners into a world of broken glass and alcoholism through the lens of an abusive relationship. "1st Prize Money" features a pop-punk sounding drum beat and a driving synth line perfect for any late night drive. Finally, Mason takes fans into her "Guilty Pleasure Place", which blends sweet-sounding acoustic guitar with cleverly biting lyrics.
We talked with Leah Mason about her influences, recording HEXED, and more. Read the full interview below and check out the full album. Let us know what you think.
How did you first get into music?
I first got into music through my dad and my brother. My dad used to play drums and my brother is a super talented multi-instrumentalist. I looked up to them so much and I thought that playing music was the coolest thing in the world. I ended up joining a band with my brother when I was ten years old, and that’s when I knew I had to pursue music for the rest of my life.
What role has Nashville played in your becoming a musician?
Living in Nashville has been a huge part of my artist journey! I’ve met and collaborated with so many incredible people in this city. They’ve truly helped me become the artist that I am today.
When you were recording your album in Sweden, did you notice specific differences between the music industry in Sweden versus the US?
Honestly the industry there felt very similar to the industry in Nashville. Everyone was very welcoming and open to collaboration. I think the music industry as a whole has many flaws, but it’s always nice in this industry to find people you love to work with and develop a chemistry with each other.
Who or what are your biggest musical influences?
I’m influenced by so many different genres of music. I love a whole range of artists, like SZA, Sabrina Carpenter, Kacey Musgraves, Hozier, and John Mayer, just to name a few.
What does your summer soundtrack sound like?
My summer soundtrack has been all over the place. One song I’ve had on repeat though is Sabrina Carpenter’s “Please Please Please”. My boyfriend and I are constantly singing it around the house–we’re big fans!
Tell us about your recent album, HEXED.
HEXED is my first ever full-length project. I’m so excited to have this collection of songs that feel like a true representation of me and my artistry. I feel so connected to each and every one of these songs.
What inspired it?
The album is truly a timestamp of my early twenties. It goes through my experience losing relationships, making new connections, feeling betrayed, and feeling loved. It’s been an emotional rollercoaster these last few years and I think the album really encapsulates those ups and downs.
What are your favorite songs on the album?
My top three in no particular order would have to be “Midas Touch”, “Insomnia”, and the album’s title track, “HEXED”.
What was the most rewarding part of this project?
I think the overall creative process was the most rewarding part. It felt like such a once in a lifetime experience to be able to make my first album with so many incredible people. It was a dream to be able to spend time in Sweden collaborating with so many talented people.
Can fans expect music videos for any of the tracks?
Yes! I have a video coming out for the title track, “HEXED”. It’s one of my favorite music videos I’ve ever made. We took a lot of creative risks with this one and I’m just so happy with how it turned out.
What is one message you want to send with your music?
That your feelings are valid. It’s okay to feel things and not always respond in the most rational way. Sometimes you have to fully feel the emotion to move on from it.
What is one piece of advice you would give your younger self?
I would tell my younger self to not care so much about everything. Nothing is that serious. Just do what makes you happy and focus on your own goals. That’s how you’ll achieve what you want. I definitely believe that comparison is the thief of joy.
What’s next for Leah Mason?
The process of rolling out this album has been a lot, so I’m not really sure what exactly is next. I would definitely love to tour though, so we shall have to wait and see!
Who are three artists you want to see next on Enharmonic Magazine?
Sierra Carson, Kenzie Cait, and Holden McRae.
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
Just thank you so much for taking the time to speak with me!
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