Interview with Leonie Jakob on Paul McCartney, Rock ‘n’ Roll, and Finding Her Own Voice
Leonie Jakobi has recently released her song, “I Deserve to Shine,” which is an empowering rock ‘n’ roll anthem that exudes self-worth and resilience. The song not only showcases her sound rooted in classic rock but also offers deeply personal storytelling that resonates with listeners on a universal level. This single is just a taste of what’s to come, as Leonie Jakobi gears up to release her debut album later this year, promising to deliver the energetic vibes reminiscent of Springsteen’s live performances.
In a recent interview, Leonie Jakobi delved into the inspiration behind her latest single and discussed her experiences collaborating with music legend Sir Paul McCartney. The inspiration behind “I Deserve to Shine” stems from the idea of embracing happiness and refusing to let others dim your light. Leonie shared that the song serves as a reminder to prioritize self-love and empowerment, despite external influences that may try to bring you down.
Having had the opportunity to study songwriting at the Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts founded by Sir Paul McCartney, Leonie got the chance to collaborate with the music icon himself. She described McCartney as kind, funny, and genuinely interested in exploring new ideas. During their session, they discussed the importance of stylistic consistency as an artist and the freedom to experiment with different genres within a single album.
Leonie Jakobi also discussed her upcoming debut album, expressing her excitement and anticipation for its release. Drawing inspiration from Springsteen’s electrifying live performances, she aims to create an album that radiates pure happiness and resonates with listeners on an emotional level. The themes of the album revolve around life lessons learned in her 20s, including embracing individuality, finding happiness within oneself, and overcoming heartbreak and loss.
Nashville, a city known for its musical legacy, has played a significant role in influencing Leonie’s music and shaping her creative process. Through her experiences in Nashville, particularly working with renowned producer Arielle, Leonie found inspiration in Americana storytelling and heartland rock, which are evident in her new album. The city’s vibrant music scene and can-do attitude have encouraged Leonie to push boundaries and create music that captivates audiences across generations.
Having lived in both Frankfurt and Liverpool, Leonie highlighted the impact of these cities on her musical journey. Growing up in Frankfurt, she was exposed to classic rock through her father’s band performances, while Liverpool provided a nurturing environment where making music felt like a natural part of life. Embracing her true identity as a musician, inspired by artists like Springsteen, Bon Jovi, The Eagles, and The Beatles, Leonie found her place in the vibrant Liverpool music scene.
Reflecting on her artistic journey, Leonie shared valuable insights for aspiring musicians, emphasizing the importance of creating music for the audience rather than trying to impress other musicians. She emphasized the significance of staying true to one’s artistic vision and connecting with listeners on a personal level. In terms of future collaborations, Leonie expressed her dream of working with Springsteen, whose music has been a constant source of inspiration throughout her career.
Looking ahead, Leonie Jakobi has exciting plans in store, including performing at Coast Fest and Wokingham Festival in the coming months. Additionally, she is gearing up to release more singles leading up to her debut album launch, followed by a series of live shows in Germany and the UK. With her infectious energy and creative spirit, Leonie Jakobi is poised to make a lasting impact on the rock ‘n’ roll music scene and connect with audiences around the world.