Photo Credit Andi Elloway
As I Am is the result of Leonelle digging deeper, beyond internal doubts or external obstacles. While working as a producer in audio post-production during the day, she dedicated her weeknights and weekends to her own artistry in the studio—”my favorite place to be.” August 2020, she met producer Tony Livadas and, together, they finished the project by December that year.
The slow-burning track highlights her rich vocals with hypnotic melodies and raw lyrics which combats someone who would lessen her self-worth. The song was written by Leonelle and co-produced by Leonelle and Tony Livadas. Mixed by Curtis “Sircut” Bye (Roddy Ricch, Summer Walker, SZA and Baby Keem) and mastered by Million Dollar Snare (Roddy Ricch, Kendrick Lamar, Summer Walker and SZA).
Tell us about this track
I wrote this song over the pandemic in 2020 after hearing a friend continuously struggling in a relationship that turned out to be toxic for her. That you can be aware of that harm, but continue to stay in it & feel your self worth lessen all to feel loved by someone.
It brought out a lot in me, my experiences – that sadness & frustration. The idea that we tend to attract people who carry wounds we have yet to heal within ourselves. I believe that this change starts within and can have such a profound effect on others.
What’s something you always wanted to write a song about but never did?
I’ll give a couple! My relationship to both my parents, the fear of them passing & then the relationship between the planet and us, humans.
Any funny anecdotes from the time you were recording or writing this?
I was just geeking out the whole time. About the guitar melody, about how fast the song was coming together and how awesome it turned out. I can be like the energizer bunny on steroids when I write. Tony (co-producer) & I always created in the dark with just a blue light on – it was and still is the vibe for me!
What’s your favorite thing to do besides music?
Geek out on Human Design, eat really good food & spend time with my cat & boyfriend.
What’s a record or artist that shaped your creativity?
Three artists that come to mind from early on for me are – Rihanna, Britney Spears & Alicia Keys. So many records…
Any nspirational artists you look up to today?
Right now what comes to mind is Doja Cat & T Swift. They both exude such authenticity and passion. It’s magnetic.
What excites you the most about what you do?
Never knowing how a song is going to turn out before making it – it’s always so crazy to me the process of producing and writing – I don’t tend to pre-plan anything so just seeing what the universe is going to create through me that day is so cool and such a gift.
