INTERVIEW: Starley on new single 'Arms Around Me': 'I love how music can connect you with so many people at one time'

Australian singer-songwriter has recently released her first new music of 2020 with the uplifting single ‘Arms Around Me’. A dance track full of hooks, gorgeous melodies and smart lyrics detailing the conflicting emotions when a relationship breaks down, the song was co-written with Grammy nominated Jon Hume (Sofi Tukker, Guy Sebastian) it is the second single to be released from Starley’s upcoming debut album, due to be released later this year. We recently spoke with Starley to find out more about her ‘Arms Around Me’ and her debut album.

Hi Starley! Great to chat to you again.  First up, how is everything in your world right now?
Well everything in the world is kinda crazy right now, but I’m trying to keep a level head about everything and stay safe for the health of myself and others. But other than that, things are good.

Your new single ‘Arms Around Me’ was released March 13 and is really amazing! Can you tell me about the inspiration behind this track?
Thanks, I’m so happy you like it. When I write songs, it’s always from life experience. The song is mainly about the backslide with an ex which I’m sure most people can relate to. Haha!

You worked with Jon Hume on the track, was there a particular sound or vibe you were going for?
We didn't really plan it but we talked about how I love the sound of gospel piano chords and Jon started playing a few progressions; I started to hum a melody and we basically flowed from there. Those gospel chords feel like home to me because I grew up singing in church.

Will you be releasing a music video for the track, and if so can you drop some hints on what it will look like?!
I have some ideas, but still TBD for now!

Your lyrics always focus on the complexities of love in a really intelligent, cerebral way that is not often heard in pop music. Is it important for you to always have a really strong message in your music?
Thank you so much. I don't intentionally write that way. It seems to be just part of the way that I naturally communicate. I love how music can connect you with so many people at one time so I’m happy if this song resonates.

Your debut album is coming later this year – how long have you been working on it and what can we expect to hear?
I’ve been working on it for what seems like such a long time now but actually on and off because I’ve also toured a lot in the past few years. I also changed management and had to learn a lot about the music business quickly. The team around me wasn’t quite where it needed to be in order for me to set this album up the way I wanted to. I now am very secure on that end so I got back to focusing on the music and I’m very excited to share this project with the world. I wouldn’t pin my music down to any one genre, but it’s gonna sound melodic and my lyrics will always be from the heart.

You were due to perform at the Heineken F1 Grand Prix in Melbourne but it was cancelled at the last minute due to the ongoing COVID-19 situation, that must have been really disappointing.
Yes, I was supposed to perform there, it was gonna be an amazing show. Would have been my first time at the Grand Prix but sadly was shut down the day prior to the event. Although they were one of the first in Australia to cancel a major sporting event due to COVID-19, I’m grateful they took the necessary precautions to protect spectators, athletes and performers.

Any other exciting things in the pipeline for Starley in 2020?
Well my album is THE most exciting thing in the world to me. I can’t wait for you all to hear it!

‘Arms Around Me’ is out now via Central Stations Records on all platforms.

To keep up with all things Starley, you can follow her on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

Listen to our podcast with Starley here