East London-based genre-blender Liv East is riding the wave of London’s underground music scene with her fusion of neo-soul, house, and R&B. Following the success of her 2023 EP LVE1, she’s now headlining W London’s AMPLIFIED series on 12 June at The Perception Bar, bringing her sultry sound and soulful storytelling to centre stage. Known for her poetic lyrics, spiritual grooves, and fierce independence as an artist, Liv is a voice of calm power in an industry that often rushes toward noise. We caught up with Liv East to talk creative process, the rise of AMPLIFIED, and what listeners can expect from her debut album.
You’re headlining W London’s AMPLIFIED series this June. What can the crowd expect from your set at The Perception Bar?
Expect a sultry mix of funk, neo-soul, house and r&b from me with a full live band. & lots of loving energy.
Your sound blends neo-soul, house, and R&B—how did that genre fusion develop, and what artists have shaped your sonic identity?
It was quite an organic development over time, and when I look back at my discography so far it’s quite clear that my creative spirit knew the path it wanted to take sonically. I think the common thread is the warmth and the soul. Some artists that have inspired me range from: JMSN, Kali Uchis, Kaytranda, SAULT, SADE, Jungle, Anderson Paak.
Since dropping LVE1, you’ve been crafting your debut album. What emotional or musical themes are you exploring in this next chapter?
The album is very cohesive conceptually and sonically, and yet I can tell you that no two songs sound the same. I’m very excited. It explores the world of funk, soul and r&b while tackling some big philosophical questions like ‘what is the meaning of love?’
East London’s music scene is buzzing right now. How has that community influenced your growth as an artist?
I think growing up in London you are so blessed to be surrounded by such a melting pot of incredible genres, musicians, artists, creatives etc. More than anything i think it has subconsciously inspired me to care less about putting myself into a certain box or genre and just prioritising what feels and sounds resonant. You create your own lane in this melting pot of life.
AMPLIFIED is all about championing innovative talent. How does it feel to be recognised by a platform so focused on genre-pushing live music?
It feels wonderful – I’m honoured to be part of AMPLIFIED’s growing roster of talent they are championing. The scene truly is in need of more platforms like this so i’m really very grateful to be part of it.
From Soho Rising to Brick Lane Jazz Festival’s Women in Jazz series, you’ve been spotlighted as one to watch. How do you navigate rising visibility while staying true to your sound?
As an independent artist with no team I think it’s very easy (and a blessing) to be able to grow with your instincts and intuition rather than outside forces trying to push you in a certain direction. I have a healthy relationship with my art right now and I’m lucky that these opportunities are gravitating towards me organically, so I don’t feel the need to change anything right now.
What’s your creative process like in the studio? Are you someone who starts with lyrics, melodies, or vibes first?
Lyrics first, nearly always. The poetry of the song is number one priority to me, once I know I’ve written something sincere I can then work with the right producer or musician to suit the mood and bring the song to life. Then I’ll record the vocals at my home studio to whatever foundation we have.
With your debut album on the horizon, what’s one message or feeling you hope listeners walk away with after hearing it?
I can’t reveal too much right now about the specific messages but I hope people feel closer to me, and closer to themselves in turn. It’s an intimate record.
