Natalie Shay
English singer/songwriter Natalie Shay released her new single “Perfume” on June 15th.
After the release of wide acclaimed single “This Feeling”, the 19 year old musician is back with a massive indie pop/rock record influenced by the sound of the 80s.
Co-written and recorded by Jonathan Vears (Imagine Dragons) and mixed by Pete Dowsett (The Vaccines), “Perfume” is an infectious dynamic pop anthem.
“I love how this track is so different from my others but is very self contained. I especially loved the use of using modular synths and other productional techniques to create a sound which is a mix of my live, real instrument sound and and a new productional identity”, reveals Shay.
“Perfume” is now available worldwide.
Introduce yourself.
I’m Natalie Shay, I’m a 19 year old singer / songwriter & guitarist from North London.
What’s your story?
I suppose I’ve always played music. It’s always been a big part of my life in different ways. I first began learning classical guitar when I was really young so I’ve always played music. Around the same time I was into musical theatre and then through obsessing over Taylor Swift in year 6/7 I began playing and singing together and writing songs. The songs I wrote back then weren’t great but that’s where I began. Then aged 14 I went to Brit School, this kinda made it all official and now im lucky to say it’s my life not just a hobby.
What got you into music?
My dad!
When did you start learning the guitar?
Age 5 I believe I started having classical lessons. However I taught myself chords and acoustic when I was 11.
Do you remember the first song you’ve ever written?
It was called ‘Love Someone’ and it sounded like Taylor Swift. I was 11!
Tell us about your new single "Perfume”. Tell us about the recording/songwriting process. What’s the story behind this song?
I wrote this song in the studio with Jonathan Vears. We began with the idea of the 80s themed production and track. Writing the song was fun as I’ve never written to music like this before, I really enjoyed the process. There’s no specific story behind this song but I suppose it’s about being in a relationship where you’re getting bored and looking to find love elsewhere.
How did your sound evolve over the years?
My first stuff was very country folk, often slow and quiet. I still enjoy writing ballads and soft songs but in more recent years I’ve had fun writing big fun songs instead with lots of cool instrumentation and sounds.
How would you define the music you’re making right now?
Indie pop rock.
What do you like the most about performing?
The response from the audience. Being able to share my songs with people face to face is a very special thing, I’m so lucky to have the opportunities to do this.
What does music make you feel?
Expressive, emotional and works as the perfect escape.
You’ve experienced many things in the industry. What lessons did you learn along the way?
People will turn you away but everything happens for a reason and more often than not a better option comes along. To stay true to my music and image even if someone tells you that’s not the best way. And as cheesy as it sounds, always follow your heart and gut feelings on stuff.
What do you think of the English music industry? How do you like it?
I feel no one has any idea how to ‘make it’ sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t. There’s no specific path or handbook. It’s annoying because of this but at the same time, very fun and exciting. I haven’t got far enough yet to make a huge judgement on the industry as a whole just yet.
As an artist, what do you want to accomplish in this world?
I want music to always be my only job, to share my music to people who enjoy it and to play some really cool shows.
How do you want to be remembered for?
For being one of the small selection of females/ female led bands, taking on the indie rock world.
Any upcoming project?
The video for 'perfume’ is gonna be amazing. It’ll be coming out very soon, so keep an eye out!
What’s your purpose?
Deep question. I feel like my main purpose is to help people, it’s something I enjoy doing and if I wasn’t doing music I’d take a career path where I could focus more on helping people. If I can help anyone through my music then it’s a win win situation.
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