Inspired #0037 - Lucy Mair
South East London singer-songwriter Lucy Mair has just dropped her new single ‘Nina Simone’, which has a big vintage vibe to it with it’s jazz-fueled pop melodies. She took a moment to talk to us about Sara Ahmed and all things that inspire her.
Who are you top three musical inspirations?
My first would be Nina Simone (not solely because I have just released a song called Nina Simone) but I think her work is timeless and I wanted to write a song about time and my relationship with the concept, how it affects me and to contrast the fear of time passing with something or someone who I believe is timeless. To be timeless, to me, is inspiring.
I'm also forever loving Lorde's music and songwriting, I've still got Melodrama on repeat...
Finally I'd have to say in terms of lyrics I'm inspired by Leonard Cohen. The way he used words and the lyrics/poetry he created is something I'll always aspire to emulate.
Is there a certain film that inspires you?
I'm not sure how inspiring the film itself is but it's certainly one of the most beautiful and heartbreaking films I've ever watched, its called 'Bicycle Thieves,' directed by Vittorio De Sica. I just think it's such a stunning piece of cinema and I've never had such an emotional reaction to a film before, to bring out such emotion in a spectator I think is inspiring and a testament to the film's beauty and artistry.
What city do you find the most inspiring?
Probably London would be my go to answer as its where I live and is full of amazing artists. However in all honesty, I haven't really travelled to that many cities, but I'm going on a UK tour in September so hopefully I'll find some new city inspiration!
Who is the most inspiring person to you?
At the moment I would say Sara Ahmed 'cause she's a rad feminist.
How would you like to inspire people?
I think theres always room for more groovy, strong and independent women in the music business and if I can be one of those and inspire people whilst doing it, that'd be pretty cool.