New Release – Heart First Head Last by Chenél No.1
Chenél No.1 is a singer-songwriter from South Africa, who creates an interesting blend of rock, pop and folk songs with her unique alto voice. She loves to explore different genres and her music is mostly guitar-driven. With a unique blend of musicalauthenticity and modern sensibilities, Chenél No.1 has carved a niche for herself in the competitive music industry. Her previous releases have garnered attention for their honest storytelling and genuine connection with listeners.
Her new single’Heart First Head Last’ is out 8th November. A pre-save is available here.
What inspired you to write this song?
“When inspiration strikes, I run with it and ask no questions. Sometimes it feels like the songs write themselves and I’m glad to dip into the fountain of creativity. This emotionally charged song delves into the complex world of conflicting emotions that arise when falling in love. With its acoustic beginnings that swell into a crescendo of pounding drums and electric guitar, ‘Heart First Head Last’ is a sonic journey through the highs and lows of romantic turmoil.”
“The story of the song evolves which each section with the theme that the heart will always trump the head when it comes to making choices about love.”
What are you hoping to achieve with this release?
“I’ve always prided myself in the fact that I cannot be placed in a specific genre. Some would say it’s a disadvantage as my audience never know what to expect, yet that’s one of the most exciting things for a listener to experience. With the release of ‘Heart First Head Last’, I’m hoping to surprise listeners with a fresh take on my electro folk rock song that takes you on a sonic journey and a rollercoaster of emotions.”
Is there a story behind the cover artwork?
“Creating the artwork took a lot of thought as I first had two apposing characters (a heart and a brain) in conflict with each other. I wanted the logical and the emotive to become one and it took several different tries of which each one failed to convey the message I wanted to convey in the song. Eventually I came up with the idea to change the structure of the heart by filling it with a brain. Thus having the heart overpower the reasoning of why the relationship could not work and falling in love with little thought and a whole lot of emotion. I’m not sure if many would notice the subtle use of anatomy that was included in both the artwork and the title of the song. It sure was fun creating the concept.”
