Leigh-Anne Pinnock: ‘I wanted to do an album I didn’t have to compromise on’

Key Concepts

• Solo Album Debut: Leanne Pinock’s first solo album, My Ego Told Me To, following her time with Little Mix.
• Independent Release: The decision to release the album independently after leaving her record label.
• Caribbean Influence: The incorporation of Caribbean musical elements into her pop and R&B sound.
• Motherhood & Inspiration: The significant impact of her twin daughters on her creative process and confidence.
• Legacy of Little Mix: Acknowledgment of the group’s success and potential for future reunion.

Album Creation & Independent Path

Leanne Pinock’s debut solo album, My Ego Told Me To, was two years in the making and represents a significant shift in her career. She describes the process as challenging, with “some hurdles and struggle,” but ultimately rewarding. A pivotal decision in bringing the album to fruition was her choice to leave her record label and release it independently. This decision stemmed from a desire for creative control and the freedom to express herself authentically without compromise. As she stated, “I just feel like I wanted to do an album that I didn't have to compromise on.” This move allowed her to create music that truly reflected her artistic vision.

Transition from Group to Solo Artist

The transition from being a member of the successful girl group Little Mix to a solo artist has been a substantial change, particularly after over a decade with the group. Leanne acknowledges that being in Little Mix was “all I’ve ever known,” but emphasizes that her passion for performing, writing, and being an artist ultimately led her to pursue this individual path. She believes that each member of Little Mix needed to “explore our own individuality and do something for ourselves.” Despite the differences, her love for the stage remains constant.

Little Mix Reunion Possibility

Despite embarking on a solo career, Leanne remains optimistic about a potential future reunion with Little Mix. She highlights the group’s “such a legacy” and “incredible fan base,” stating, “how could we not?” indicating a strong possibility of revisiting the group’s collaborative success in the future.

Lyrical & Emotional Core: "Heaven"

Among the tracks on My Ego Told Me To, Leanne identifies “Heaven” as particularly special. This song is deeply personal, dedicated to her twin daughters and reflecting on the challenges overcome during the album’s creation. She describes it as a culmination of her efforts, stating, “it was all worth it…everything is for them.” The song serves as a powerful expression of maternal love and protection, encapsulating the emotional core of the album.

Impact of Motherhood on Creativity

Leanne’s role as a mother of four-year-old twin daughters has profoundly influenced her music and personal outlook. She finds constant inspiration in their “fearless” confidence, admitting she wishes she possessed the same self-assurance at their age. She playfully attributes their confidence to their “egos,” suggesting they’ve inspired her artistic direction. She describes her daughters as “the biggest blessing ever,” emphasizing their central role in her creative process.

Upcoming European Tour

Leanne is set to embark on a European tour in April to promote My Ego Told Me To. She promises a visually and sonically engaging experience, stating fans can “expect a show because I love coro. I love the bells and whistles.” The tour will serve as a platform to bring her album to life and share her story with audiences across Europe.

Caribbean Influence & Album Theme

The album My Ego Told Me To is characterized by a blend of pop and R&B infused with Caribbean musical elements, reflecting Leanne’s heritage. The album’s title and overall theme center around the importance of self-trust and choosing oneself, as evidenced by her Instagram post: “proof that when you trust and back yourself doors open.” This message underscores the album’s core message of empowerment and self-discovery.

Synthesis/Conclusion:

Leanne Pinock’s debut solo album represents a bold step towards artistic independence and self-expression. Driven by a desire to create music authentically and inspired by her daughters and heritage, My Ego Told Me To is a deeply personal and empowering project. Her journey from a successful girl group member to a solo artist highlights the importance of trusting one’s instincts and embracing individuality, a message that resonates throughout her music and upcoming tour.