Violet Skies and Lily Allen: A Magical Collaboration
In the throes of creativity, singer-songwriter Violet Skies from Chepstow, Monmouthshire, reflects on an unforgettable experience: co-writing six songs for Lily Allen's latest and notably raw album, West End Girl. Within the span of just ten days in Los Angeles, this collaboration became a testament to artistry, emotion, and the resilience of the creative spirit.
“I spent the wildest ten days of my life,” Skies remarked. “It felt like a fever dream making this music with Lily. It was truly a magical experience.” This artistic jaunt coincided with Allen grappling with her own tumultuous journey, creatively narrating the end of her four-year marriage to actor David Harbour.
The Personal Touch
The songs crafted during this tight timeline include standout tracks such as Madeline, which delves into deeply personal themes. Skies and Allen embraced a collaborative spirit, underlined by a sense of honesty and vulnerability.
“Lily poured her heart into this project with unparalleled openness and talent,” Skies noted. “She was honest, self-aware, and had all the titles written out in advance—a rarity that speaks to her visionary artistry.”
Creating Together: The Process
This endeavor was not just a musical collaboration, but a journey of reconnecting with one's roots. While dwelling in Los Angeles for several years, Skies remarked on how crafting a “very British album” helped alleviate her homesickness. “Making this album with friends I've known for years is a massive part of the pride I feel for these songs,” she added.
The result? An album that reflects a spectrum of emotions, from raw vulnerability to poignant introspection. According to Skies, their writing sessions had a unique dynamism, where creativity flowed effortlessly amid laughter and companionship.
- Track Highlights:
- Madeline
- Sleepwalking
- Let You W/in—her personal favorite
- Dallas Major
- Relapse
- Beg For Me
The album's culmination, released on October 24, stands as Allen's first in seven years, marking both a professional and personal renaissance.
The Reflection of a Decade
In interviews, Allen highlighted her emotional landscape while creating this album, stating, “Nobody knew what was going on in my life,” prompting her to pour her heart out in the studio, often leading to tears and cathartic creativity.
As Skies acknowledged, the blend of writing both relatable and personal experiences helped unveil a rich tapestry of human emotion that resonates with listeners. Each song reflects an intersection of individual experiences, like the relatable struggles of moving on.
A New Chapter for Violet Skies
Skies, also known as Hannah Berney, isn't just a voice behind Allen's album. She has carved her own niche in the music industry, writing for renowned artists like Diana Ross and Zara Larsson, and recently featured on the Netflix film soundtrack for The Wrong Paris.
“What makes this collaboration special is not just the songs, but the bonds formed through shared creative expression,” Skies noted, showcasing her gratitude to co-executive producers Blue May and Kito. This familial atmosphere fostered connections that fueled the project's life.
What Lies Ahead
As both artists embark on their respective journeys post-album release, the music is set to carve paths through the charts while reminding us that every creative endeavor is layered with untold stories and shared experiences. As the initial buzz subsides and the album settles into listeners' playlists, it's clear that this collaboration is just the beginning.
Expect to hear much more from both Skies and Allen as they continue to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of the music industry, leaving an indelible mark as they go.
Conclusion
In a world dominated by fleeting trends, the depth offered in collaborations like this reminds us of the timelessness of storytelling through music. So, if you haven't yet, immerse yourself in West End Girl—and let it take you on a journey filled with heartbreak, honesty, and healing.
As Skies encouraged, “Please listen top to bottom.”
Source reference: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c20p673le87o
