We chatted to the Kiev-born, London-based singer about her new single “Animal”, her dream collaborator, and what she wants her legacy to be.
Following on from her last single, “What She’s Like”, Delena (FKA Boba K) has returned with a bang. The Kiev-born, London-based singer studied at the London Institute Of Contemporary Music Performance, perfecting her songwriting, and this is clear on her latest single, “Animal”. Released on the 28th October, the song is a powerful anthem of self-confidence, strength and belief, elevated by Delena’s flawless vocal delivery.
We chatted to Delena about the song, her dream collaborator, and her legacy.
Can you tell us a little bit about you and where you’re from?
My name is Delena! I was born in Kiev and I absolutely loved growing up there. I spent a lot of time with my grandmother and grandfather living in one of those post soviet houses with five floors. My love of music came from my grandfather who taught me my first song on the piano which I will never forget! He was also the first one to show me how a record player works and a lot more about music.
Did you always know you wanted to be a musician?
It’s a tricky one, because I think yes and no. I grew up in a family of doctors so I was very influenced by that and I a big part of me wanted to pursue that direction. But when I think about it, all I did all day long was sing and dance, creating shows for my family at home in the living room!
Who did you listen to growing up?
Growing up I listened a lot of artists including some Ukranian singers. But I would say that my favourite artist growing up had to be Queen. Still my favourites today!
Your sound has been described as everything from poppy to modernistic – how would you describe your sound yourself?
Good question, one that i’ve always wanted to be asked! I would probably describe my sound as pop/rock! Its very light rock, but I love my guitars and they have to be a part of every song.
Is the new single part of an upcoming album? If so, can you tell us a bit more about the project?
“Animal” is a single, but it’s an introduction to what’s coming soon and the direction i’m looking for on an album! I really want to give part of me to this project, Delena! It’s very important for me that people can feel what I feel when I listen to my own music. I am Ukranian and we are very emotional people! So if my own music gives me feelings, then hopefully everyone else feels that too!
Who would your dream collaborator be?
I could name you everyone right now, and it still not cover half of people I would want to collaborate with!
Do you enjoy performing live? What’s the best gig you’ve ever played?
I love performing live! Its my favourite part of this journey. I could spent all day with a live band singing and it still wouldn’t be enough for me. The biggest gig i’ve played so far was an outdoor show in the main Square of Kiev.
Your last single, ‘What She’s Like’, came out in 2017…how much do you think you’ve grown as an artist since then?
A lot! “What She’s Like“ was the first ever song I did in a writing camp in Sweden and the first song I ever released! So it was all so new to me. And after time I started to realise my vision and what I really wanted to put into my music
What advice would you give yourself one year ago?
I would say that you should do whatever you feel is right and don’t be be scared of doing things for yourself!
Where do you hope to be one year from now?
One year from now I’d love to have an album release and work more toward my dreams. Also, i’d love to visit places I have never seen before and just enjoy everything in the here and now!
What do you want your legacy to be?
Freedom and authenticity! Standing with respect for yourself first. This is the massage I would definitely want people to embrace from my music.
