Lockdown 2.0 is in full swing and it’s easy to forget the feeling of going to a good gig but this winter, we’re bringing the heat to your nights in with the UK’s best emerging acts. The talented artists that are bubbling under the surface waiting to make 2021 their year. Tune in to our weekly Instagram lives and discover your next favourite performer. Stick to your bubbles, pour some bubbles and check out who’s bubbling up on the music scene!
Each week we’ll be introducing you to one of our ‘ones to watch’ so you can get to know the people behind the tunes. First up, it’s SAI (@iamsaimusic), the Manchester girl with a 90s R&B sound...
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I’m a music-obsessed singer/songwriter from Manchester, chasing my dreams in London!
Describe your sound.
My sound is heart-felt but chilled. New soul with sprinkles of old skool RnB. The mood is riding in a car down Route 66 with your person, top down, no idea where you’re going but you’re wild and free to do whatever you want, whenever you want!
When did you start making music?
I started playing piano when I was 6 years old and singing soon after. Can't lie, I was a proper music geek! I used to stay in and practise singing Mariah and Whitney songs when everyone else was going out...
Who are your influences?
Mainly artists with vocals that blow me away! My influences growing up were people like Brandy, Toni Braxton, Mariah Carey, Lauryn Hill, Stevie Wonder, Brian McKnight, Shola Ama. And then from my generation I’d say Nao, Snoh Aalegra, HER, Lucky Daye.
How would you describe your personal style?
I would say my personal style is sporty, chill and glam! My major style phobia is being overdressed for an occasion. I'm obsessed with rings - you’ll rarely see me without them on! And handbags are my guilty pleasure, I can literally plan a whole outfit around a handbag. My current handbag is a Sainsbury’s shopper bag though… Covid won’t let me live!
What are your passions outside of music?
I am a massive foodie – I’m basically either eating or thinking about eating! I love a good crime documentary, I’m fascinated by sharks, and obsessed with stars. The ones in the galaxy, not celebrities...
Who's in your bubble?
Me and my BFF, so it’s girl’s night every night!
How are you socialising in today’s world?
Just trying to check in with my friends every day on the phone, texts and voice notes. Seeing if everyone is ok in these crazy times!
How are you going to make 2021 yours?
I’m gonna laugh HARDER, love STRONGER, dream BIGGER and sing LOUDER!
