Harleighblu is a name that will soon be on everyone\u2019s lips. Not just for the simple fact that it appears that every female English soul singer that cracks it, seems to crack it bigger than big time, but because Harleighblu is uniquely different. A young chanteuse, with street style and an old soul, she\u2019s effortlessly blended Hip Hop and soul to create magic on her debut album, \u201cForget Me Not\u201d. Grindin\u2019s Kristie Nicolas had a chat with Harleighblu about her inspirations, working with producer Joe Buhdha on her debut and surprisingly, wiggling her bum.<\/strong><\/p>\n

What inspires you creatively\/musically? <\/strong>
\nExperiences, putting myself in other peoples shoes, the music I’m listening to… It varies but I’m usually always inspired by something happening in my life.<\/p>\n

What artists have shaped you the most as an artist? Who did you grow up listening to? <\/strong>
\nJill Scott is a huge inspiration – I didn’t take her debut album out of my stereo at one stage. My mum\u2019s record collection was the biggest influence for me though. Artists like Marlena Shaw, Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, Erykah Badu, D’Angelo, Floetry, Bilal, the list is endless…<\/p>\n

What would you like fans to take away from your debut album, \u201cForget Me Not\u201d? <\/strong>
\nI hope we’ve created something strong and beautiful enough to slide alongside some of their favourite soul artists in their record collection. You just hope people connect with it you know, so you’ve not worn your heart on your sleeve for nothing.<\/p>\n

My favourite cut from the album is \u201cLove Of My Life\u201d, with its mellow jazz-soul vibe. What is your favourite track from the album and why?<\/strong>
\nThat would be like choosing your favourite child for me! Haha, I have favourites but that always changes. \u201cLove Of My Life\u201d was something different vocally for me I felt, so I’m glad it made the album.<\/p>\n