“Sparks” is a deeply introspective single that delves into the challenges of navigating the dating world after heartbreak. In this emotional track, Laila confronts her fears of being hurt again and her inclination to guard herself against romantic connections. “Sparks” takes a stripped-back approach, highlighting Laila’s soft, raw, and vulnerable vocals. The song’s minimalist production creates an intimate atmosphere, allowing her honest and introspective lyrics to take center stage.
In this interview spotlight, I chat with Laila about Sparks, work ethic, dream tour, and more.
Full Q&A along with links and music below.
Congratulations on the new release! Tell us about “Sparks.” How is it different from your previous 3 singles?
Thank you so much, I’m so excited to be sharing this one. Sparks is about how hard and complicated it is to open your heart back up after it’s been broken. This is probably the most vulnerable song I’ve released yet, and is much more stripped back and organic sounding than my previous singles. It’s one of those songs that came out of such a true and inspired moment that it practically wrote itself: I was walking home from a date when I started to wonder if my heart even worked anymore. My producers and I decided to lean into pop-country for this song as it felt right for the story (also because I’m a huge fan of the genre).
How would you describe your work ethic as a musician? How do you stay creative?
I am the type of person that lives like I’m the star in my own movie all the time (haha). Everything inspires me and I’m constantly in awe of the world around me. I use my phone notes a lot to write down things that I hear/feel/think about that I want to use in songs. Lyrics usually come first to me. As much as I try to structure time to be creative, I am definitely the type of person that tends to strike when inspiration comes to me naturally and when things excite me — I often have to pull over while driving to make voice notes.
If you could collaborate with one artist right now, who would it be?
Definitely the 1975. I love their songwriting, production, just everything.
What is your dream tour concept?
Oh gosh, what a great question!! I definitely think lots of sparkles and glitter, LOTS of pink, and maybe some set pieces that are clouds. I joke around with my team that I want my band to dress like glitzy cowpeople, so probably that too.
You are also an actor and were just on Glamorous with Kim Cattrall. What was that experience like?
The experience was amazing. Of course I was a little intimidated going into it (because Kim is SUCH a star), but she was sooo wonderful and kind to work with so she made it easy. She was smiling and making jokes with me between takes. I’m also just so proud to be a part of such a dynamic and groundbreaking story.
How do music and acting fulfill different creative cups for you? What do you get from making music that you don’t get from acting?
For a while I gravitated more towards acting than music. I think in ways it felt easier and safer to be vulnerable playing a character rather than myself. I love acting so much and just love finding and using the parts of each character that are within me. Music is so so magical though because you get to create and tell your own stories. In a lot of ways there’s crossover between the two arts for me — I can’t imagine a life where I’m not doing both.
Do you have any hobbies outside of music?
I love spending time outside in nature. I grew up going to camp, so I love anything hiking, swimming, and kayaking related.
What’s the best piece of advice another musician gave you?
That it’s not a talent contest: more than half of the art is hard work and perseverance.
