INTRODUCING: LAVAUD
In the heart of Hackney, East London, a rising star is making waves with her enchanting blend of musical influences. Estelle "Lavaud," a singer-songwriter with roots tracing back to the culturally diverse island of Mauritius, has been captivating audiences with her soulful melodies and powerful lyrics. From her early days, learning the guitar from her musician father to receiving recognition from the UK's prestigious MOBO Awards, Lavaud's musical journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Join us as we delve into her world, exploring the sounds, stories, and aspirations that drive her passion for music.
Interview by KOFI OWUSU
Your musical journey began at a very young age, with your father teaching you to play the guitar and nurturing your passion for singing and songwriting. How did this early exposure to music shape your artistic identity?
Honestly, first off, I'd like to say I’m so grateful to have my dad as one of my biggest musical influences. He’s pushed me to be the best I could be and supported me with love all the way. He taught me to be 100% true to myself and he is a major reason why I love music so much today. I have a wide music palette because of all the music I grew up listening to and this shapes the way I approach making music, or shooting a video, my reference points are so diverse.
It's cool that your dad taught you to play the guitar. Are there any funny or quirky stories from your early jam sessions together?
Yes actually, we have so many. One that I can remember clearly is freestyling while he’ll play the guitar. Once we made up a song about my mum's chicken wings and Mauritian fried rice it was pretty hilarious.
Your musical influences span a wide range, from Zouk and Sega music to R&B legends like Whitney Houston and Michael Jackson. Can you share how these diverse influences have contributed to your unique sound, vocal style, and songwriting?
There are some iconic artists who are the blueprint to musical greatness. Artists like Whitney Houston, Michael Jackson, Mariah Carey and Beyoncé have really influenced my vocal textures, my cadences and melodic choices. There is an undeniable confidence they have, it’s a trust in their expression that forces you to feel exactly what they felt. It’s the secret to being timeless and I’m drawn to them all because of it.
In terms of songwriting I listen to so many talented writers like James Fauntleroy, Frank Ocean, Victoria Monet to name a few. I just love the way they capture a story and blend genres to create a feeling that transcends all creative boundaries. I just pray to keep evolving and learning from the best
With such a star-studded lineup, what was the studio vibe like while working on "Roll On Me"?
“Well…What happens in the studio, stays in the studio haha!”
No, honestly it was just a couple days of good vibes and lots of high energy. I really enjoyed the conversations with everyone, getting to know Tiwa personally was a highlight, spending time in NYC with Kanis was the best and of course hanging with superstar Reekado is always the motive.
In a quote, you mentioned that you're experimenting with your Mauritian heritage and British roots in a fresh way. Could you provide some insights into how these cultural elements influence your music and what you hope to achieve with this fusion?
Sometimes I would add the Mauritian Sèga drums called the ‘Ravanne’ faintly in the background or sample Mauritian creole in my music. I love to incorporate the rhythms of our drums, it’s spiritual and even when it isn’t so obvious it creates a feeling that elevates the experience. I love the legendary Mauritian artist ‘Cassiya’, their approach to music is so intentional and I strive for that boldness in my sound. Something else I’m falling in love with is my British vowel placements, you can really hear the Hackney girl coming into her own on these new songs. I love that my music is beginning to become a true reflection of me.
Your debut E.P. “King Vaud” received attention from fashion giants like H&M and Tokyo James. How do you see the intersection of fashion and music in your artistic expression, and what does it mean to have your work recognised in the fashion world?
I’m so grateful for the recognition King Vaud had received. Thank you to everyone who still supports that project till this day. I believe music and fashion go hand in hand,they are twin forms of expression. I identify with music as a visual experience, I understand Fashion as a soundscape. My goal is to literally create music that the fashion world embraces too, so I’ll keep doing my crunches and working on my walk until Dolce & Gabbana call haha.
Your feature on the remix of Reekado Banks' "Rora" showcased your ability to seamlessly blend with afro-fusion music. How did this collaboration come about, and what was the experience like working with Reekado Banks?
Reekado is one of my closest friends, I love him and I love his music. I’ve been a fan since way back. I actually met him through my manager JQ, we’ve spent a lot of time together and he really just respects me as an artist. He actually asked me to be on the ‘Rora’ remix which was mind blowing to me. I had to return the favor and ask him to join me on my 2021 release, ‘Oh My’, both amazing songs and I’m just happy to be able to build authentic relationships with amazing humans.
You've recently announced a collaboration with Tiwa Savage, Kanis, Reekado Banks, and Patoranking on "Roll On Me." What can fans expect from this project, and what excites you the most about this collaboration?
The most exciting thing for me is the different worlds colliding. Mauritius, UK, Nigeria, Haiti!. It's the start of something beautiful and completely authentic. Fans can expect nothing but music that will lift your soul and allow you to feel free, be who you want to be and dance like nobody's watching.
Can you give us a glimpse of your creative process in the studio, especially when working with producers like Kel-P, Trakmatik, and Cool & Dre?
From when I wake up in the morning I set my intentions for the day so I can feel grounded and understand how I’m feeling. What I want to talk about in the studio... I try not to speak too much before 12pm (a serious emphasis on ‘try haha) I steam my voice. Do some vocal warm ups. Take some tea and have a cup of honey for when I’m ready to sing. I like to talk with whoever I;m working with, dig deep, connect, relate and then it just flows.
As an artist who has received recognition at a relatively early stage in your career, what advice would you give to aspiring musicians looking to make their mark in the music industry?
I would say keep creating, making music, dig deep and take time to figure out who you authentically are, then spend the rest of your life falling in love with that. It starts from you. Collaborate wholeheartedly with writers, producers and creatives that share your vision and don’t be afraid to learn. Be open, be mindful and don’t be too hard on yourself.
Finally, Ghanaian, or Nigerian Jollof?
Ooooo, this is going to start a war and probably get my song off the air, but it’s Ghanaian for me you know!
My short term goal is to start gigging at local places and