Leezy On Mental Health, Songwriting Process, And Brand New Single

*Disclaimer: interview discusses topics like drug and addiction.

With nearly 3 Million likes across social media, singer-songwriter Leezy is just what we needed in this music industry. And now, she’s back today with the release of her new single ‘Cocaine Kisses’.

We had the amazing honor of talking with Leezy about her dream collaboration, upcoming project, and more!

When did you first realize that you wanted to pursue a music career?

L: “I always knew I wanted to. I grew up surrounded by inspiring music, and my parents were always very supportive of creativity. I was in the choir at school, and I did musical theater as well. So I was always singing, and I knew I loved it. As I got older, I started to have a lot of fear about what a career in music would actually look like, and the thought of putting myself out there felt impossible– like it was just a dream, and that people don’t actually “make it.” A lot of that self-doubt had to do with the mental health issues I was dealing with, so once I went to treatment, and got everything sorted out, it became clear to me that I absolutely had to pursue what I felt passionate about.”

Tell us about your new single ‘Cocaine Kisses’. Does it have a personal meaning to you?

L: “Cocaine Kisses is special because I started writing it before I got sober, and back then it had a completely different meaning to me than it does now. When I initially came up with the idea, I was partying a lot and going on these big benders. I was super high one night, and I was kissing this guy… and I thought “Cocaine kisses make it better,” and then I was like OH! SONG TITLE! It felt sexy and fun, and was very much a glamorized telling of everything I was actually going through at the time. When I hear the song now, I think it really speaks to how seductive addiction can be, especially with how normalized party culture is. Social drug use can make us feel deeply connected to people, but in reality, it’s all a show; when you pull back the curtain, everyone is seeking an escape from something. So I think it’s an important song to share because it highlights what I’m sure a lot of young people might be feeling– whether they’re an addict or not.”

Do you have any words of advice for fans wanting to overcome addiction?

L: “I was lucky enough to be able to go to a residential treatment center when I was struggling, so I’d say if treatment is available to you, definitely do it. Rehab changed my life, but I also know that it’s not accessible to everyone. So other than that, I think having support is the number one most important thing. Whether it’s a friend or a family member, being able to talk with someone who is patient and understanding of the process is so major. Meetings are also a great resource– working through the steps with a sponsor, and cultivating a sober community!”

What is your songwriting process usually like? Is it typically based on your past?

L: “I write what I know. So not necessarily always the past, but sometimes. I’ve kept a daily journal for as long as I can remember, so I’ve got pages and pages of possible material. I usually take my entries and write them into poems, and from there, I’ll add a chord progression and see if it flows into something I like.”

What has been your reaction to receiving over 100K+ streams on your music so far?

L: “It has been an absolute dream. Like I said, I had to overcome a lot of fear when I decided to pursue music, so I am just over the moon that people are responding and connecting.”

If you could collaborate with any fellow artist, who would it be and why?

L: “There’s this guy on TikTok (@will.paquin) who is so fucking sick on guitar. Like so talented. I’m a big fan.  His writing reminds me a lot of Elliott Smith, who’s one of my favorite artists. and I think it would definitely mesh well with my vocals. Whenever I see his videos, I always hum a little melody over it.”

Can we expect more music from you in the future?

L: “Yes! I will be releasing my debut full-length album later this year, which I’m super stoked to finally share. Most of the songs were written pre-sobriety, so the record tells the story of everything I was feeling and experiencing at my rock bottom, until I finally decided to seek help.”

Where can we follow your amazing journey?

L: “You can stay up to date on TikTok (@leezy) and Instagram (@leezymusic69).”

Stream ‘Cocaine Kisses’ now!

https://music.leezymusic.com/cocainekisses

Je’Kayla Crawford– Founder and Director– Je’Kayla has been a journalist for years and decided to start a publication of her own, New Scene. When not helping her team and working on the monthly issues, you can find her watching a movie on Netflix or baking using a viral Tasty recipe.