She may have just lost out on a Brit award for the third year running, but that isn't stopping Leona Lewis. Releasing I Got You, the second single from her album Echo, Leona tells us about taking part in the Haiti charity record and how she feels about not doing as well as Lady Gaga...
Q: I Got You is the second single from your new album, why did you choose to release this particular song?
A: When I first recorded I Got You, I knew instantly that I wanted to release it. I think the song gives a good message about relationships and being there for somebody.
Q: How hard has it been to choose the singles from this album?
A: It is hard when you have an album of all songs which you love, the decision is never easy!
Q: You've just topped the charts with a host of stars for the Haiti charity record Everybody Hurts. What was it like being involved in this cause?
A: I was so proud to be involved with the Haiti single. What happened in Haiti was truly devastating and I wanted to do anything I could to help. If singing on this record was going to help make money, then I am going to be first to sign up. I'm so pleased it has done so well.
Q: Your last single Happy didn't perform as well as was hoped in the States this year. Does that bother you?
A: I think the song in particular has an instant connection with people. Some people really relate to it and that's all I try to do through my music.
Q: One Republic's Ryan Tedder co-wrote Happy and has said that only music similar to Lady Gaga's will do well in America at the moment. Are you planning on releasing a more up-tempo track next?
A: Working on this album in particular introduced me to different styles. We have a couple of up-tempo tracks on the album, which I really enjoyed recording and performing. I do think you need to keep your style though. Lady Gaga has a very unique style which works for her and I think everybody should express themselves how they want to.
Q: Lady Gaga is on tour at the moment, and you are currently making preparations for your own tour this May. Can you give any hints on what fans can expect?
A: I don't want to give too much away but I am really excited. I have had lots of creative input into the tour, which is great. I want people to come and be part of a fantasy world and get lost in the music!
Interview by Colin Gentry
The single I Got You is taken from the album Echo. Both are out now.
