Lo Lauren's "Monster" is not just a song; it's an anthem, a cathartic expression of the tumultuous journey through the complexities of desire. In the track's lyrics, Lo Lauren fearlessly delves into the moral quandaries of pursuing a love that challenges societal norms, echoing the sentiments of her heart-wrenching experience. As she candidly reveals, "Monster" reflects the struggle between breaking someone else's heart or her own—a dilemma that transcends the boundaries of right and wrong. With "Monster," Lo Lauren opens a window into her world, inviting listeners to navigate the raw depths of human emotions with unfiltered sincerity. In this unapologetic vulnerability, the single is a distinctive addition to her expanding discography, following the resounding success of her debut single, “Never The One,” and the recent offering, "Only One on Earth." Lo Lauren's meteoric rise began with "Never The One," earning the admiration of BBC Radio and the distinction of being featured twice on Mollie King's 'Future Pop' show on Radio 1. We spoke with Lo Lauren about the unfiltered sincerity of “Monster.”
Can you share more about the personal experience that inspired "Monster"? How did you navigate the conflicting emotions and moral dilemmas depicted in the song?
I’d met someone that I had undeniable chemistry with, but I found out they were in a relationship. It was hard because it makes you feel like such a bad person for just having feelings, but also, at the end of the day I would only want to be with someone if they truly want to be with me.
What was it like working with Andysocialclub and KIN on "Monster"? How did their contributions enhance the overall sound and message of the song?
We're all great friends, so although this song underwent many changes before we got to the final version, the process was still very fun! They’re both incredibly talented producers and writers, so working with them was a joy. KIN came in with the idea of wishing you could be with someone who’s already in a relationship - something which I related to so much! So that was how the song started.
"Monster" is an anthem with soaring pop hooks, angsty guitar riffs, and pulsating basslines. How do you feel your musical style has evolved from your debut single, "Never The One," to this latest release? Are there specific elements you intentionally carry through your discography?
We’re still only at the beginning, but with every song; I hope people are introduced to a new side to me musically - for example, "Monster" has an almost musical theatre element to the topline and a slightly darker tone, which is different to my last two releases - but the dance cry energy is something I always like to tap into.
Your music has been well-received by BBC Radio 1 and BBC Introducing, with "Never The One" even becoming 'Track of the Week.' How do you believe your music creates a connection with your audience, and what do you think sets it apart in the current music landscape?
The reception has been great so far, so I definitely feel like people are connecting to it, which is the most important thing. I make music that is a nod to the 2010 golden era of pop music, which I don’t think many people are doing right now - out-and-out, feel-good pop songs with a big sing-along chorus.
The lyrics of "Monster" explore the struggle between desire and morality. How do you approach songwriting to convey such deep and introspective themes? Are there particular artists or influences that inspire your lyricism?
I dig into what the story is about - it’s really like therapy in that sense, exploring topics you perhaps didn’t realize at the time meant so much to you. I listen to a lot of Taylor Swift, Katy Perry, and, more recently, Chappell Roan, and I read a lot of romantic novels to help with lyrics.
"Never The One" marked the beginning of your artistic momentum. How has the journey been since then, especially with the attention from BBC Radio, notable publications, and the success of your releases? Have these experiences shaped your approach to creating music?
It’s been so cool seeing people’s thoughts and opinions on the music; each time we put a new song out, new things happen, making it all so exciting. I wouldn’t say it’s shaped the way I make music; I think as soon as you start to get influenced by others, it can take away from who you are as an artist, so me and my creators actively try and avoid doing that. We stick to making music we love, and as long as it feels good, we are proud of it, and connect to it, then that’s all that matters.
You draw inspiration from personal experiences. How do you balance the vulnerability of sharing intimate stories through your music with the public nature of being an artist?
For me, each song has layers; it can always relate to something or someone in my life, but it can also usually relate to a friend's situation or a story I’ve read. I actually don’t ever really think about the fact that I’m pouring my heart out or telling everyone my deepest, darkest secrets, haha - I kinda just do it! I don’t think about the things people might assume or dig into because if I did that, I would question everything I write about.
You often breathe fresh life into tracks, infusing them with a renewed sense of vitality. How do you approach reinterpreting or revitalizing songs, and how does this contribute to the overall narrative of your discography?
I do a lot of rewriting, that’s for sure, refining lyrics, reworking melodies, etc. I believe that it’s worth reworking a song if you believe it has something special about it - it’s the hardest thing to do but definitely worth it, in my opinion.
With the success of "Monster," what can fans expect next from you? Are there any upcoming projects, collaborations, or themes you are excited to explore in your future releases?
Next year, I’m going to start working towards my first project, which means lots more songs, videos, and live shows! I love the new music & I really can’t wait to share it with the world.