PREMIERE: Gianna Lei Brings It Home with New Single "Villa & A House"
☆ BY LAUREN AUDREY ☆
PRAGUE-BASED POP AND R&B ARTIST GIANNA LEI gets ready to show the world a darker and moodier side to her music with the drop of her brand new single, "Villa & A House”. Known for turning personal stories into relatable electro-anthems, Gianna Lei brings soulful vocals, heartfelt lyrics, and catchy beats to the table.
The creation of "Villa & A House" was a spontaneous burst of creativity. It all started in her childhood home with producer Morten Bergholt. "We wanted a darker vibe, and Morten whipped up this beat in about five minutes," Lei shares. The title "Villa & A House" began as random words but evolved into a narrative about striving for an ideal life. That same day, the verses and chorus came together, showcasing her natural songwriting talent.
Initially, the bridge was supposed to feature another artist, but when they didn't show up, Lei took matters into her own hands. During a trip to her producer's studio in Denmark, she penned a new bridge. "I was so frustrated, I decided to write a better bridge than he ever could, and I did. Now, it's one of my favorite pieces," she reveals. Her chronic illness also influenced the song, adding layers to the dream of an ideal life and stability. The music video, shot in her hometown, adds a personal touch to the track’s intimacy.
Shot and directed by Michael Maidr, the track’s music video features her childhood dog, Theo and also includes the vintage car she grew up with. Reflecting on the elements in the video, Lei says “I remember listening to cassettes in the car as a kid and then when I got older burning cds to play my favorite songs and annoy the shit out of my parents by screaming out the lyrics. I always thought I had to reject what truly made me me but I wanted to really celebrate the environment I grew up in, the city & what resonates with me. For the longest time I thought I had to be super extravagant as an artist to stand out and make an impact but I realized true authenticity is what is really what matters.”
Lei's musical journey is truly inspiring. Her talent caught the eye of the Czech Eurovision selection, and she honed her craft at the prestigious Abbey Road Institute in London, studying music production and sound engineering. This blend of technical expertise and raw talent allows her to create music that deeply resonates with a global audience. "Villa & A House" showcases Gianna's unique mix of emotion and skill, solidifying her position as a strong force in the pop and R&B scene.
