We had a chat with Isla De Luca following the release of her seductive and atmospheric debut single ‘he said’
On her debut single ‘he said’, fiercely exciting New York artist Isla De Luca has immediately established herself as someone with an unmistakable aura and intoxicating cutting edge and appeal, exploring themes like power and seduction through a dark and subversive alternative pop sound.
The track has an atmospheric allure from the second that it starts, with Isla’s poised lyrics and enchanting vocals making for a sound that captures your attention early and never lets you go throughout its duration. Between the unique and expansive feel of the sound and the artist’s wildly exciting appeal and distinctive edge, there is a lot to unpack about Isla De Luca and ‘he said’. We had a chat with Isla to find out some more about the thought process behind her sound and approach and what the future has in store for one of our favourite emerging artists.
Who TF is Isla De Luca?
A bad bitch with a lot to say! A really high-budget femme fatale cosplay! A proudly queer pop emergency! All of that and more. Born and raised in New York and now based in NYC, I’m a fresh act with a nasty, ultra-confident siren alter ego whose story I tell across my tracks.
How long have you been making music?
Singing, lifelong. I did write a couple of songs here and there when I was a kid, but this chapter of my life began tangibly in 2023.
Why do you make music?
I make music that I want to hear, influenced a lot by the unapologetically indulgent Y2K pop I grew up listening to and miss the spirit of. My music is a form of expression, a way to communicate my thoughts, experiences, and fantasies. It’s about creating an escape for both myself and my listeners, a world where we can be as “bad” as we want to without repercussions.
What are your biggest influences?
My influences include the spirit of past pop icons, growing up online, the storytelling prowess of filmmakers and playwrights, and the daring aesthetics of fashion designers like Alexander McQueen. To give some direct musical nods, Madonna and Lady Gaga.
What would you say has been your best moment so far?
It’s still so early, but it’s been amazing seeing how this single is already being received and spreading the message I hoped for.
How would you describe your sound to somebody unfamiliar with it?
I like to call it “sexy evil music”. I’d place it under the umbrella of commercial Alt-Pop, infused with elements of Y2K Pop, Dance, and Rock, marked by strong, seductive vocals, dynamic production, and anthemic lyrics. My sound is a blend of nostalgia and modern fantasy, designed to captivate and empower listeners, inviting them into a headspace where they can explore their own potential in its entirety without apology.
What’s your dream “I’ve made it” moment?
Going out to a store or a club and hearing my music independently playing on their speakers.
We love your new single ‘he said’, what more can you tell us about it?
Thank you! This song marks a significant early step in the narrative of my evolving alter ego, a sort of dark, enigmatic siren. It intertwines my love for dance-pop with a gritty, alt-pop sensibility, creating a sound that’s intriguing but confrontational. Drawing inspiration from a realm where power dynamics and the façade of glamour play crucial roles, “he said” delves deep into the story of a character caught in the glittering, yet murky, waters of fame and influence.
The song reflects on themes of seduction, control, and the high stakes of the music industry. It’s a portrayal of a character who navigates through a world where everything comes with a price and where her personal ambitions and desires lead her into a complex dance of manipulation and self-discovery.
In creating “He Said,” I wanted to capture the essence of this siren’s journey, her challenges, her strategy, and her perspective on the power structures that exist in the shadowy corners of fame. The song is meant to be a stepping stone into a larger narrative that I’m eager to unveil piece by piece.
Musically and lyrically, we aimed to craft a track that resonates with listeners, drawing them into the siren’s world, making them question and analyze the dynamics of power and desire. It’s an invitation to look beyond the surface and to dive into a story of intrigue, ambition, and the quest for autonomy.
“He Said” is more than just a single; it’s a doorway to the deeper, darker, yet empowering saga that I’m excited to share with my fans. This track sets the stage for what’s to come and I’m thrilled for everyone to join me on this journey. I can’t wait to share more of my world soon. It’ll be out everywhere March 15th.
What else do you have planned for the near future?
I’ll be releasing a series of singles this year, each telling a part of the story of the persona I’ve created my music around. There are also plans for collabs, shows, and visuals– stay tuned!
And finally, who is your biggest fan right now?
I’d love to say my mom, but she’s not the biggest fan of my image. So, I’d love to know. And give them a kiss, maybe.
