Laila is making waves this Pride Month with her latest single, “I Like Girls.” The catchy and empowering anthem serves as a delightful response to her previous release, “Strangers at the Airport,” as Laila moves from exploring the pain of heartbreak to celebrating her authentic self and embracing her identity.

‘I Like Girls’ is an infectious anthem that celebrates love, identity, and the freedom to be who you truly are. The track offers sweet and smooth vocals and a light and celebratory soundscape perfect for a sunny summer day. Its nods to country music lend a playful and endearing quality to the uplifting and joyful atmosphere. With its buoyant and vibrant production, the song seamlessly blends shimmering pop elements with an undeniable groove, creating an irresistible sonic landscape that invites listeners to dance and embrace their true selves. 

In this interview spotlight, I chat with Laila about the new release, AI in the music industry, filming for the music video, and more.

Full Q&A along with links and music below.

AI (aka Artificial Intelligence aka Chat GPT 4.0)… How is it changing the music world? What are your thoughts about this new trend?

I’m personally not worried about AI’s role in the music industry. I think with the rise of AI, real (human) artists will have more of an opportunity to shine and stand out. 

Can you choose a favorite song of all time? Or is this an impossible task? If yes, what’s the song? If no, what’s your current Top 3?

Here are my top 3 favourite songs (…at the moment):

Taken – MUNA 

Life of the Party – Ingrid Andress

Somebody – Dagny 

What about this project makes you most proud? Was there a specific goal you were trying to accomplish with this release?

I’m really proud of I Like Girls because I think it is an unconventional and unique take on a queer narrative/pop song. I wanted to put out the message that it’s cool to explore and be curious, and that it’s okay to not have a clear label/stance on your sexuality. 

Congrats on the music video release! What was shooting the music video like?

Thank you!! My teenage bestie and artist Fox Revett directed it, and we had such a blast! We shot the video at his parent’s restaurant. It was shot by our friend Andrew Nguyen (drag performer Get Ping Hohl) — he’s amazingly talented. We got a bunch of my friends to come out and be in the video. The day went extremely smoothly and I was honestly overwhelmed by how supportive and amazing my friends were on the day. It’s a fun homage to my days as a server in restaurants, so it feels very true to me. 

What inspires you to create music? What motivates you to keep going?

Music is so natural to me. It’s always been my default when I need to explore/process feelings, and it’s what inspires me the most in life. I connect with music in a way that I don’t with words alone. I’ve always wanted to share my stories and had ambitious goals for myself, so there’s never really been a question about if I should keep going. It’s kind of the only thing I know how to do! 

What was the last song you listened to? Favorite all-time bands/artists?

The last song I listened to was “But I Lied” by Leah Kate . It’s a banger. My all time favourite artists/bands include the 1975, Holly Humberstone, The Band Camino, Ingrid Andress, Lennon Stella, and The Chicks. 

Where is the best place to find you and stay connected?

I’m @helloitslaila on all social media! I’m definitely most active on instagram and tiktok. 

I appreciate Your time. Want to say or plug any other projects before we part ways?

I have a new single coming out on July 21st!!! You can pre-save it here: http://lnk.to/sparks_