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by: jasongutierrez Pack your bag for the club because Leana is ready to dance. Nicknamed the “Swedish Diva,” dance-music sensation, Leana is ready to release an as-of-yet-untitled sophomore album that is packed with beat-pumping dance tracks. You’d never expect this physically fit, tall, blonde-bombshell is the mother of three. Anticipating the release of the new album, Leana chatted with us about music and celebrity mixed with a little motherly advice. EnvyMan.com: The first single, “Pack Your Bag” is obviously a break up song. Who did you wrong Leana?
Leana: Oh, the inspiration came from someone that I wanted to get out at one point (laughing). We all have those moments in relationships. Of course you never write word for word of what happened or whom you are talking to, but they know. EM: The new album’s release date is still up in the air but tell us a little bit about it.
Leana: There will be about ten tracks on the album. Jack Ellis and I had fun on “Pack Your Bag.” It’s different than the first album, which was more of a pop album with some dance tracks on it. This is a complete dance album. I feel that’s a good direction to go in.
EM: How are you getting the word out there about the new album? Are you doing any special promotions?
Leana: We go all over the country and perform at big dance events in places like Miami or Las Vegas. In between we try to do different Gay Pride events. I have kids so I can’t go on huge tours. So I like the smaller events. EM: What other artists out there have inspired you as a performer?
Leana: If you looked at my iPod, you might think I’m schizophrenic. I am more of a song person. I have a very wide range of music that inspires me. A lot of that has to do with sounds. As far as the dance divas, I’m a huge Kristin W. fan and of course Madonna.
EM: Society is obsessed right now with celebrities! What do you think about that?
Leana: I haven’t been in the position of Britney Spears, or people like that. I think for the dance music industry a lot of the attention stays on the music. I came from the position of being a mother. It’s hard to understand everyone’s obsession with say, Lindsay Lohan, when there is so much else going on in the world that is important. It’s all just gone too far. Major headlines with celebrities’ names are not what we should care about. EM: What do your daughters think about their mom being a dance diva?
Leana: Oh they love it! They like to play ‘let’s make a music video.’ They both think it’s fun to be a part and come on set of the music videos. They really like to hang out with the dancers – they love the gay boys (laughing). EM: Are you prepared for one of them or both of them wanting to get into the business someday? How would you advise them about the industry?
Leana: Yes, I guess. The hardest thing as an artist is the only way to be successful as a true artist is to stay true to yourself. As soon as you have a little bit of success everyone has an opinion about who and what you should be. You have to keep listening to that inner voice. That’s when things will work out for you. And it’s hard. There’s a lot f other voices out there but I’m teaching them to listen and believe in themselves. And everyone should do that. Listen to yourselves. Leana’s official website is www.leana.com |
