Singer-songwriter and harpist Lucinda Belle is a pioneer in writing music, multi-genre composition, and interactive performance; her accomplishments range from recording major albums to being nominated for an Oscar (Original Song). Over the span of her career, Lucinda has performed around the world.
A child prodigy at the harp, it was expected that Lucinda would have a successful career in classical music. Instead, she absorbed influences from countless genres—classical to jazz, pop to hip-hop, blues to reggae—to create a sound entirely her own. After several years conquering the UK, with three major record and publishing deals (Decca/Sony/Island) and having put in her 10,000 hours as a musician and songwriter, Lucinda decided to bring her trademark sound to the US.
Creatr: So, your story has been told many times…
LB: Yes, the headlines, “Working girl from North London, discovered running a Laundromat and singing a million-pound deal with Universal.” Followed by numerous collabs with other artists like Robbie Williams, Pet Shop Boys, Annie Lennox, etc. etc.
Creatr: And you’re not interested in harping [chuckles] on that one any longer?
LB: Exactly, I just feel like it’s old news. Been there, done that. The ups and the downs—I’ve endured it all. These days I’m proud to call myself an Independent Artist. That broadens my horizons and frees me from the expectations of the old school labels. One has to explore more as an independent, and although it can be daunting, it’s a constant reminder that it’s not about the destination—it’s about the journey.
Creatr: So how do your past experiences reflect on who you are and where you are now?
LB: My past is what has made me; it prepared me for all that is to come. I’m happy for all my experiences—even the lows—because it’s the collection of one’s experiences that create a foundation upon which to spring forward into and onto the next. I’ve learned to seek out my own inspirations in life, remain authentic and let go of my own preconceived ideas of what “I think I should be” or “where I believe I should be” at any stage in my career. With that comes a new freedom and acceptance that I’m moving forward…One day you travel so far down the road, you suddenly peer over your shoulder and realize you have actually moved on.
I will always be “the girl with the harp,” but I’m also a woman; I’ve matured as an artist and as a person, and I’m now I’m in a different stage of my life and career.
Creatr: What are some of the ways you have evolved since the beginning of your career?
LB: Every way! From doing public speaking and interactive keynote addresses to performing and breaking into the American audience, being bicoastal with collaborations. I’ve always had my hands in different pots; it’s just grown to a larger—more global, international—scale.
Creatr: Do you miss London? You’re based between New York and San Francisco, but you seem to spend a majority of time in the States.
LB: London will always be home. And, of course, I do miss it. Luckily, I’m back quite often, but it’s refreshing to push outside my comfort zone and experience this new life and challenges in America. I’m happy to have come to the States at this point in my career.
Creatr: What have been some of the most difficult aspects of relocating?
LB: Well, firstly, I was somewhat surprised to learn about the music scene in San Francisco. There’s a jazz scene…underground music—a lot going on, but it’s homegrown—similar to London in that you have to seek it out. It’s not like New York where everything is everywhere, or LA where everyone is a musician. When it comes to the industry side in San Francisco, it’s definitely less “in your face.” But there are tons of great venues and festivals to play.
Creatr: Putting politics aside, what are the pros of living and working in America as a musician?
LB: The positives are the can-do attitude, the opportunities. I feel my ideas, endeavors, and ventures can be brought to life here. The standard of musicianship in America is just incredible. I’ve had the privilege of performing with amazing musicians all across the States.
Creatr: What are you working on at the moment?
LB: I’m working on a venture that will create an entirely new listening experience for audiences. I’m working with a team to build out shows that will offer audiences interaction with visuals and music in real-time. We’re planning to deliver impactful moments through the use of integrative technologies, generative content, and light projection. Thus, allowing audiences to feel more socially connected while providing an elevated human experience. Our plan is to unroll this and launch organically, as we now (thankfully) approach a vaccinated, post-pandemic world.
Lucinda is unashamedly paving the way through her artistry with timeless rebellion and bold presentation. Her authentic connection to all that she does is undeniable. Recently, Lucinda released her latest album Think Big: Like Me, which reaffirms her unique perspective of what can be done with the harp.
