Interview by Carol Wright | Photographer: Philip Tabak

We got to chat with singer/songwriter Nora Lei about her newest single “Together” and what advice she has for aspiring musicians.

What initially got you interested in creating original music?

I have sung my entire life, it sort of just lives within me. Whenever I’m going through something, sad or happy, it just flows out of me. I’m always mumbling melodies and random lines.

Tell us about your new song “Together.” What inspired the lyrics?

“Together” is about the ups and downs of a relationship, but realizing you are happy together and it’s all worth it. I’m always inspired by my own experiences and what I talk about with girlfriends, mixed with fantasies and random thoughts in my head. 

You got to work with producers Joe Laporta and Harper James when creating this song. What did you learn from them?

Harper James is awesome, we’ve been working together on my sound this year. I probably learned to just do whatever feels natural, not to force anything – we’re always on the same page so it’s been a really flawless and authentic process. Joe masters my music and I always love his final touch. He just gets it for sure. 

When it came to working with Laporta and James on how the song would sound – what made you settle on the electro-inspired/ pop sound?

I actually already had the beat before I linked up with James. I knew together was going to be a pop song the second I came up with the melody. I sort of go for whatever the vibe of the song is, and it had that vibe.

Who are some musicians whose music has inspired you this year?

Michelle Branch, Halsey, Billie Eilish, Lana Del Rey, Taylor Swift, Fiona Apple to name a few.

What advice do you have for aspiring singers?

Well, I’m still figuring it out myself! I’m just focusing on my art and going with the flow. You’ve got to enjoy the journey, do it because you love it and just let yourself be open to writing real, raw music.