Ivory Layne is back with ‘Confetti’ EP & new single ‘Lonely Hearts’ She spoke to Music Promotions about recording the album, Recording the album in Nashville and the UK, Being tipped at the one to watch by Billboard, Touring plans and much more.
What is the story behind your EP Confetti?
The Confetti EP is a sort of sonic storytelling of my years living in Nashville and traveling to London. It’s an ode to the lessons I’ve learned in my early twenties as well as the byproduct of a lot of time figuring out, What do I want to say and how do I want to say it? What is important to me?
How long did you spend writing and recording it?
Altogether, this project was about seven years in the making. So, longer than any of my relationships.
Did you record it in Nashville?
While God Save The Queens was made entirely in Nashville, the rest of the songs on the EP were crafted in the UK. The vocals on Confetti were very sneakily recorded over Zoom last year with Edd Holloway producing across the pond while I was locked down in Nashville.
What was it like working with producers Nick Atkinson and Edd Holloway?
I just love Nick and Edd! They’re good friends and workmates, so there was great energy in the room already. If anything, I just wanted to be accepted as one of the cool kids. (This is me on the record saying I am cool now because we made an EP together.)
Billboard tipped you as the ‘One To Watch’ how did that feel to get that recognition?
I mean, it feels absolutely incredible, especially coming from Billboard! Though as a single woman who watches way too many crime shows, I find the term “One To Watch” a bit sinister?
You’ve worked with some different producers, who would you like to work with that you haven’t yet? and songwriters who would you like to write with?
Paul Epworth and Peter Gabriel and Greg Kurstin, please and thank you. Also Dolly Parton, I will always love you.
Who are your music influences?
I grew up listening to Regina Spektor, Imogen Heap, and Arcade Fire—they all introduced me to rhythmic catchy hooks. And Imogen is largely the reason I got into music production! A special tip-of-the-hat to The Killers, Florence and the Machine, and Annie Lennox as well. Drama Royalty.
What music are you currently streaming?
Really enjoyed Miley’s newest record, Angels Like You is my jam, as well as Elle King’s single, Another You. My friend and bandmate, Grant Pittman, put out a lovely album of piano music I find quite calming, 12 Pieces For Solo Piano. And my new Peaky Blinders addiction got me back into the occasional Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds listening sessions.
When touring does happen, do you have anything in the works? Which venues are you looking forward to playing at?
I cannot wait to safely return to touring! I was planning on playing some gigs in London for the first time before the world shut down last year, so playing any venue in the UK would be smashing. Since we’re dreaming big…let’s say Royal Albert Hall!
Plans for this year?
Eat my weight in chocolate, read two books a month, and continue to grow my artistry and connect with fans as authentically as I can! I’m temporarily off of social media (my sister Madalyn (wo)mans my profiles with beauty and grace), but I’ve loved receiving + responding to mail and emails from fans! You can reach me at hello@ivorylayne.comor PO Box 2411 Brentwood, TN 37024.
