Over these last few years, Katie London has been quick to cement herself as one of the more heartfelt additions to today’s pop landscape. And with a flurry of impactful efforts under her belt already, she recently returned to deliver her hotly-tipped new EP ‘Feelings N Stuff’.
So with the EP out now, we joined her in conversation to find out more about her background and plans she has for the future as well.
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Can you tell us a bit about your background and how you got started in music?
Music has been an integral part of my life since childhood. I began with school plays, shows, and local competitions, eventually finding my way to the studio. Since I was 14, music has been a serious passion of mine, influenced by my grandad’s legacy in the BBC orchestra. Music truly runs in my veins. If I wasn’t singing, I was listening to music.
While I have a deep love for musical theatre, working in studios unveiled my artistic side. Travelling between the UK and the USA, I’ve spent years in and out of studios, honing my songwriting skills. I’ve been fortunate to learn from industry heavyweights, Grammy winners, and more, absorbing everything like a sponge. Creating music and bringing my ideas to life in songs is my greatest joy.
Who are your biggest musical influences and how have they shaped your sound?
Soooo, I don’t usually follow the charts, I’ve always focussed on artists and genres that resonate with me. Growing up, Jojo was a significant influence on me. Seeing her music video for “Leave (Get Out)” when I was nine opened my ears to soulful singers and catchy songs—I wanted to be her! I’ve streamed every mixtape, album, and single she’s released and followed her career for years. She’s such a special artist to me.
Other amazing artists who inspire my songwriting and sound include Tori Kelly, Adele, Hayley Williams, and Holly Humberstone. Their talent and artistry deeply influence my music.
Was there a specific moment or experience that made you decide to pursue music seriously?
I believe my passion for music was truly ignited when I was nine years old, singing Celine Dion’s “My Heart Will Go On” in a school competition. The validation I received and seeing people’s reactions to my voice definitely gave me the music bug. Since then, mini victories in other competitions, landing lead roles in school plays, and collaborating with other musicians have solidified my belief that this is my purpose.
It’s not just about winning—it’s the feeling I get when performing music and the thrill of seeing a song develop from scratch in the studio that drives me. This journey has truly made me realise how much I want this, and I love creating and sharing my music with others.
Can you walk us through your typical songwriting process?
Nothing is straightforward for me when I write a song; my approach varies each time. Sometimes, I’m inspired by a beat, while other times, I start with an idea that pops into my head. It could begin with a melody that gradually builds or a clever lyric—it’s always different. I’m really grateful that I learned how to record and mix my own music. I used to rely heavily on an engineer, but now I can do it all by myself, which has helped me create some great music. Being able to rely on yourself in whatever you are doing is truly a superpower!
How do you find inspiration for your music and lyrics?
My inspiration really comes from how I’m feeling.. I’m a sucker for an emotional song! I love being as honest as I can with my music. Writing lyrics that feel like conversations is important to me because I really strive to be relatable and vulnerable.
What themes or messages do you hope listeners take away from your music?
I’m not necessarily trying to convey a specific message; I just want to create music that shows vulnerability and takes people to moments in their lives that they can relate to.
What challenges have you faced as an emerging artist in the music industry?
Being a female in this industry has definitely shaped my experiences. I’ve faced my fair share of inappropriate behaviour, from creepy DMs to uncomfortable meetings, and it’s not always easy to tell if someone genuinely wants to work with me for my talent or if they have other intentions. Luckily, I’ve been really protected, thanks to my fiancé (we met through music). If I ever get bad vibes from someone, I’m out of there—no one is making me feel uncomfortable (anymore!).
What has been the most rewarding aspect of your musical journey so far?
One moment that really felt rewarding was sitting with THE Rodney Jerkins in the very studio where Adele recorded “21,” alongside the pianist who worked on her project. It was both amazing and petrifying! Rodney took the time to listen to my music and gave me incredible advice on how to improve my songwriting. This happened so early in my music journey, and having the honour of being in a room with him to learn from him still blows my mind. That experience gave me so much fire and determination to give it my all. I’ll never forget that day. On a more personal note, as I’ve grown older, I’ve realised that music is truly therapy for me. It’s incredibly rewarding because it’s probably the only thing I’m genuinely good at, and I’m grateful that I can create and pour all my feelings into my songs.
How do you stay true to yourself and your artistry in a constantly evolving industry?
It took me a while to realise that I should only make music that I genuinely love. I spent years chasing trends and sounds that didn’t feel authentic to me. I’ve definitely struggled with finding my sound and direction, and a lot of that came from wanting everyone to like me. I’m still working on that part. I think all artists can relate to that feeling of being lost at times.
What can fans expect from you in the near future? Any upcoming projects or tours?
I’ve got a few exciting things in the works right now! Very soon, I’ll be dropping a bunch of music content for Christmas (stay tuned for all the details). Plus, I’m keeping a massive project under wraps for next year, which will feature some major collaborations! I’m also hoping that touring will be in the cards for me next year, as I really miss performing live.
Where do you see yourself and your music career in the next five years?
In five years, I’d love to have a Grammy nomination, my own headline tour, a top 10 single, and, most importantly, I want to feel like I’ve made a real impact in the industry. I’m striving to feel accomplished on a personal level. I can be my own worst enemy when it comes to music—self-doubt is something I’m actively working on—but deep down, I know this is my purpose. I’m so excited for what’s to come on this incredible music journey.
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Listen to Katie London’s new EP ‘Feelings N Stuff’ below.
