Get ready to be amazed! Violet Skies, a singer-songwriter from Wales, recently revealed the whirlwind experience of co-writing six tracks on Lily Allen's new album, 'West End Girl'. It's a story of creative collaboration, unexpected opportunities, and a touch of homesickness.
Violet Skies, whose real name is Hannah Berney, described the experience as 'the wildest 10 days' – a period that resulted in co-writing songs for Allen's album, which delves into the end of her marriage to actor David Harbour. Imagine the creative energy! Skies shared that the experience felt like a 'fever dream.'
Skies isn't new to the music scene. She's previously penned songs for music icons like Diana Ross, Mabel, and Zara Larsson. 'West End Girl,' Allen's first album in seven years, was released on October 24th. The album was written and recorded in Los Angeles over a condensed period of 10 days.
Skies shared, 'We wrote six songs in four days last December, and hearing it now resonating with people out in the world is something I never expected. It's surpassed all my expectations.' She also mentioned the heartwarming experience of her family receiving calls from people who love the songs. On Instagram, Skies praised Allen and the 'best bloody crew of pals' she collaborated with. She highlighted Allen's openness, talent, and honesty as a rare combination in an artist. Allen's preparedness, arriving with song titles already written, further showcased her vision and artistry.
Skies expressed gratitude to co-executive producers Blue May and Kito for orchestrating the 'wildest 10 days,' recalling that they reached out to her a few weeks before Allen was ready to write. She added, 'Making this album with friends I've known for years is a massive part of the reason I'm so proud of these songs. Please listen top to bottom.'
Having lived in Los Angeles for a few years, Skies admitted to missing home. However, creating a 'very British album' definitely helped ease her homesickness. She co-wrote 'Madeline,' 'Sleepwalking,' 'Let You W/in' (her favorite), 'Dallas Major,' 'Relapse,' and 'Beg For Me.' 'Let You W/in' is one of the final tracks, where Allen embraces moving forward.
In an interview with the Sunday Times, Allen revealed that she went into the studio, cried for two hours, and then decided to make music. She also mentioned that some of her songs were written 'in character,' hinting at autofiction, a blend of autobiography and fiction. Allen collaborated with her friend and musical director, Blue May, who assembled a diverse team of writers, producers, and players.
Before her collaboration with Allen, Skies appeared on ITV's The Voice in 2012. She has released multiple albums and EPs, describing her music as 'pop with teeth,' and co-producing all her work. She also wrote 'Meet Me in Paris' for the Netflix film 'The Wrong Paris' and co-founded the sheWrites writing camp program.
But here's where it gets controversial... Could the intense creative process in such a short time have resulted in some rushed decisions, or did the constraints actually fuel innovation? What do you think about the autofiction approach? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
