As the end of a long week nears, we could all use a little love in our lives. Well, this is exactly what artist Piera is serving up with track “Love Is Meant For You”. A warm pop ballad that promises to provide joy and elation to those who hear it, the artist’s mellow vocals and gentle instrumentation that feature on the song culminate in a true summer sound. And, with an accompanying music video depicting the artist enjoying a sun-soaked and serene holiday, the project is made all the more delightful.
“This song is a celebration of universal love” explains Piera. “I wanted to show the hope in everyone’s love stories, whether you are a part of the rainbow mafia or if you are straight! This song is for you. It’s time to confess your love to your crush, your lover, or your partner! This is your new feel-good summer anthem, and I’m so excited to share the ‘Love Is Meant for You’ Official Music Video with you!”
Upon the release of “Love Is Meant For You”, Piera sat down with Wonderland to discuss her latest single, why political activism is so important to her, and her plans for future releases. Head below to read the interview…
Hi Piera, how are you doing?
Hey! I’m good! Still smiling, laughing loudly, writing music and eating way too many packets of salt and vinegar crisps, so I can’t complain.
How has the pandemic been for you? Has it made it harder to create music?
It’s been a crazy time! I flew to the Bahamas to perform at the opening of a school that we had raised money for. The country then closed its borders and went on total lockdown. I was taken in by friends who are definitely family now; after living with them for 5 months. I then finally made it back to the UK and reunited with my family, and I got to see my Grumps (my grandfather) who I had missed so much. I wrote several songs and released my lockdown track “Hold You in A Month”, written about being away from family. My new summer song, “Love Is Meant for You”, came from me wanting to give out my love to everyone, I’m a hopeless romantic you see!
Talk us through your beginnings in music! What inspired you to pick this particular career?
I started singing from a young age. I would perform on any form of transport from cars to boats and planes! I would just stand up and sing! I was the most annoying toddler passenger! I discovered songwriting when I was 15 following the loss of my best friend, who was killed in a car accident. It was through music I was able to find myself again and feel stronger. I found it an empowering way for me to express my love, my hurt and my sincerity all wrapped up in guitar, piano chords and my words.
Who would you cite as your biggest musical inspiration?
I’m a folk-pop artist that happens to love Maisie Peters and Dodie! I’m into indie storytelling laced in desire and heartbreak. Dean Lewis reminds me that the most important factor when you’re writing music is to connect.
Congratulations on the release of “Love Is Meant For You”! Talk us through the song!
This song is a celebration of universal love! I wanted to show the hope in everyone’s love stories, whether you are a part of the rainbow mafia or if you are straight! This song is for you. It’s time to confess your love to your crush, your lover, or your partner! This is your new feel-good summer anthem, and I’m so excited to share the “Love Is Meant for You” Official Music Video with you!
The track comes accompanied by hazy visuals filled with scenes of you on a sun-soaked holiday, what inspired this?
Due to Covid, I was stuck in the Abaco Islands that had been destroyed after Hurricane Dorian. During my stay, I was helping rebuild homes, aid with water and food distribution. I was also performing once a week with my ukulele to bring the community together and feel stronger through music. I decided to shoot the music video there to reflect my last year and the love I have for this wonderful island and how much it has taught me during these crazy times. I wanted to show the sun, the warmth, the energy, and the history! The first shot we see in the “Love Is Meant for You” music video, I’m actually standing on an old jail building that is now pink!
How do you want people to feel when they listen to your music?
To feel loved, to have the courage to be your true self, and to not be afraid to show your vulnerability as there is power in that. I like to think of it as listening to your best friend’s advice!
Sometimes it’s quite out there like my track “Dear Mrs” and sometimes it’s exactly what you need “Love Is Meant for You” – I got your back beauties!
Aside from music, you are a keen political advocate. Can you talk us through your work with the LGBTQ+ community and women’s charities?
I’m just a human that wants to help! I started my collective Stronger With Music a few years ago, where we work to promote the importance of music and mental health and music and social impact. I’m passionate about Gender Equality, LGBTQ rights and Climate change and have partnered with Global NGOs. I created my “Used” | End Domestic Violence Against Women music video campaign, which partnered with the Spotlight Initiative and the Canadian Women’s Foundation. What a learning experience! I felt so grateful to have this support! I’ve also performed at the United Nations HQ in New York on International Women’s Day, which was awesome! I couldn’t believe that I was being given this opportunity to share my music and my voice reflecting issues that I believe in and how the arts can make a real change – because they do!
What is next for you? Do you have any other projects that you are working on right now?
Yes! Working on my new song “Do You Want More?” which I think my followers will love!