Q&A: YAZ Steps into the Spotlight with Bold Debut EP, ‘Wish You Were Here’
INTERVIEW
INTERVIEW
☆ BY SHEVON GREENE ☆
BRITISH POP ARTIST YAZ — has made a bold entrance into the music scene with the release of her highly-anticipated debut EP, Wish You Were Here, out today. The six-track project merges vibrant pop with rich R&B influences, showcasing a reflection of her personal journey over the past two years. Almost as if we were reading her diary, the EP captures her raw vulnerability while providing infectious melodies and empowering themes. Tracks like "Retrograde" and "American Girls" have already earned her spots on major playlists, promising the arrival of a new voice in pop music.
The Luna Collective sat down with YAZ as she opened up about her creative process, her musical influences—ranging from Ariana Grande to SWV—and the personal space that shaped the EP's intimate feel. YAZ also discussed her excitement for this next chapter, hinting at future performances and her vision for bringing her music to life on stage. With Wish You Were Here, YAZ has set the foundation for a bright career ahead, inviting listeners into her world. Read below to learn more.
LUNA: Your debut EP, Wish You Were Here, feels very personal, almost like a diary. What inspired you to open up so much in your music, and how did that vulnerability shape the overall tone of the project?
YAZ: Writing is how I process my emotions and navigate situations in my life, so it happened naturally. I also wrote with the intention of having no intention, if that makes sense—just letting it spill out. That’s why my music feels vulnerable. Some songs on this EP are my most vulnerable yet. Most of my music has been fun and uplifting, but there are definitely deeper, more honest songs here.
LUNA: You've described yourself as a perfectionist, and it's clear a lot of care went into this EP. How do you balance your drive for perfection with letting the creative process flow naturally?
YAZ: I feel like I have two sides: one that’s creative and wants to make as much music and art as possible, and the other that’s organized and wants to make sure everything fits well. When I have a song I love, I let it sit and build from there.
LUNA: Your music blends pop and R&B influences. How do these genres reflect who you are as an artist, and how have you used them to create your signature sound?
YAZ: I grew up listening to a lot of R&B—SWV, Destiny’s Child—and pop, like Michael Jackson and Ariana Grande. Those influences really shaped the sounds I love now. My sound is defined by my choice of instruments and the words I use. I love blending pop and R&B because it feels authentic to me.
LUNA: Tracks like "Retrograde" and "American Girls" have gained a lot of attention. What’s it been like seeing your music on prominent playlists and getting this recognition? How has that shaped your journey so far?
YAZ: It’s been amazing. When I made these songs, I wasn’t necessarily thinking about people hearing them, though of course I hoped for that. Seeing people enjoy the songs and making them a part of their lives is really motivating. It’s also informed how I’ve approached releasing this EP.
LUNA: You’ve mentioned that many ideas for the EP came from your bedroom. How does your personal space influence your creativity, and do you see it as a key part of your artistic process?
YAZ: I love working and writing with people, but it’s something I had to grow into. Being alone in my room lets me be myself with no one watching. That helped me process my thoughts and ideas without fear of judgment. When I take those ideas to the studio, it’s great to see them elevated by others. But I also love finding people I have good writing chemistry with—that’s really fulfilling.
LUNA: It’s cool how you can take something so personal and then see it grow with collaboration.
YAZ: Yeah, I wrote the song "Wish You Were Here" in my room too. I didn’t know what I was going to do with it at first, but then I took it to LA and worked with Social House, who were my dream producers. They took the song to a whole new level, which was amazing.
LUNA: The cover art for Wish You Were Here has a playful nod to The Princess and the Pea. What drew you to that fairytale imagery, and how does it tie into the themes of the EP?
YAZ: All of my songs started from my bed, so having that on the cover felt authentic. There’s also a Disney-ish feel to the EP with all the strings and harmonies, and the idea of being on a stack of mattresses just felt right.
LUNA: You’ve said Ariana Grande is one of your biggest inspirations. How has she influenced your music, and are there other artists who have impacted your sound?
YAZ: Ariana Grande and Victoria Monét have been huge influences. I love how their music, especially the more soulful, R&B-influenced stuff, has such tasteful vocal arrangements and melodies. SZA is another big influence—she just says what she feels without worrying about making it perfect, and I really admire that.
LUNA: Your songs explore themes of confidence, empowerment, and personal growth. What do you hope listeners take away from Wish You Were Here?
YAZ: The EP is romantic and introspective. I want people to take away confidence from the fun, upbeat songs and feel seen by the more heartfelt, introspective tracks.
LUNA: With your debut EP out soon, what are you most excited for in this next chapter of your career? Any specific goals or projects you’re eager to pursue?
YAZ: I want to start performing. I loved performing as a kid, and I feel like that’s where I can really connect with the music and create new arrangements. It’s the next step for me.
LUNA: Do you have any specific visions for your performances—like stage design or choreography?
YAZ: I love the Supremes and their matching choreography, so I’d love to incorporate that kind of style. I have so many ideas, though!
