Following the release of her excellent debut single ‘Learn To Hurt’, we had a chat with SHWA to find out what to expect from the emerging artist
Emerging Welsh singer-songwriter SHWA is about a month removed from the release of her debut single ‘Learn To Hurt’, and the track has done a really nice job of establishing her unique pop sound and the personality and charm that shines through her work. Her upbeat, catchy nature and thoughtful introspection dominate the track, with lyrical themes like self-love and discovered accompanying her irresistible pop sensibilities.
The storytelling nature of SHWA is something that is immediately apparent on the track, and the heart on sleeve, vulnerable nature of the writing creates an immersive, three dimensional world that a lot of listeners will find solace in and relate to. The track is an empowering, feel good anthem about taking your pain and letting it change and mould you, making you stronger and more resilient in the process. We love this debut release, and had a chat with SHWA to find out a bit more about it and what we should expect from her as an emerging artist.
Who TF is SHWA?
Hey hey! So, SHWA is your typical Libra – Valley’s girl- biscuit loving- moon worshipping- high on life kind of girl. Alongside singing and songwriting, I’m passionate about self-love and practising gratitude, spreading love and joy wherever I go; I adore nature and value my friends and family beyond words. A burst of energy basically!
How long have you been making music?
I only started seriously writing in the pandemic. Before lockdown, I was part of The Sing Space choir which then created an online platform to help us all stay creative. They expanded the classes from just choir practise and songwriting was one of them. I used to write when I was younger but never completed anything or thought it would progress anywhere, so thought it might be something nice to revisit. Little did I know that Malin Andersson would ignite a spark in me- I became obsessed with writing and really found my flow from there, figuring out each step as I’ve gone along.
Why do you make music?
I make music because it allows me to release all the thoughts that are stuck in my head. Writing allows me to process all the feelings I could never come to terms with and liberates me to keep growing into the best version of myself. Music has always been an influence in my life, and I always say, if I could do anything else, it would probably make my life easier. But I can’t, this is what feeds my soul, so I do it because that’s what gives me my creative release and excites me.
What are your biggest influences?
In terms of song writing, Taylor Swift has been a massive influence for me since I decided to release my own music. Her lyrics and how she structures her stories are awe inspiring and really connect with me.
Vocally I’m obsessed with Lady Gaga and how she sings directly from her core, no matter what sound quality comes out, she’s just incredible- dramatic and pushing boundaries as well as soft and emotional. But my biggest musical influence would be my stepdad; music always filled the house, lots of David Bowie, Paloma Faith Stereophonics, Prince, Amy Winehouse, Nirvana the list is endless! He sparked my love for music and continues to encourage me to follow my path.
What’s your dream “I’ve made it” moment?
When I get to perform in the Principality Stadium. One of the best moments this year has been when I went to watch Tom Jones and Stereophonics there. Hearing the crowd of my Welshies singing back and having a good time, it was unbelievable. I want that.
What would you say has been your best moment so far?
Definitely releasing ‘Learn To Hurt!’ This is the first time stepping into everything; taking it from an idea to a fully realised concept and I’m so excited that I’ve taken this plunge to actually make it something more!
How would you describe your sound to somebody unfamiliar with it?
It’s all about the story- I strive to compose deep connections in my writing. I’m so inspired when I listen to songs that take me on a journey; where you discover hidden gems each time you listen to it on repeat; touching me on a level I didn’t know I needed to express as if it was made solely for my ears. So ‘Learn To Hurt’ is along the lines of electro-pop, but from the various influences I have as said above, I don’t plan on tying myself to a specific sound because if it doesn’t serve the story, then I need to find a sound that will.
We love your debut single ‘Learn To Hurt’, what more can you tell us about it?
Thank you! So “Learn To Hurt’ has come from a place of self-recognition. I always had a yearning for love- I’ve been in many relationships and of course ‘many’ implies that they were not all successful. I never knew myself because I would always get lost in another person and their needs. This song reflects the turning point in my life where I decided to be the one in control and put myself first.
It amplifies those feelings of delusion when we get caught up in love and it was great fun to play with animalistic connotations exploring this idea to create strong images that I hope will connect with how others have felt at the expense of another’s change of heart.
Writing ‘Learn to Hurt’ came from pain, but this loss really was the best thing that the Universe gave to me, so that’s why the lyrics are juxtaposed with upbeat vibes, showing that the struggle between sadness and strength runs parallel to each other, but knowing that you can get through it.
What else do you have planned for the near future?
I want to focus on single releases whilst I get to know my feet a little better in the industry. However, I want my listeners to feel like they’re joining me on my discovery of understanding all the emotional experiences we face, risking to ‘fall in love.’ I’m gonna take my audience through the ‘love cycle,’ the ups, the downs and everything in between. So since ‘LEARN TO HURT’ seems like the end of a chapter and the dawning of a new one, the focus next is to write about how it all began.
And finally, who is your biggest fan right now?
Oh, my goodness, you know what, I am so grateful and blessed to be surrounded by a wonderful family and an abundance of friends I’m not sure! But I think I’ll have to say myself (in the cringiest way possible!) because this industry is hard. And art is subjective. But I’m doing this for me because it’s what I love doing. So, if I can’t cheer myself on, how am I ever going to get anywhere!!
