VALI WOODS Drops New Single ‘ALIEN DISCO’ | We Talk LADY GAGA & Feminism
After releasing three singles in 2019, which gained traction. LA-born and Melbourne-based artist Vali Woods is breaking through the Covid Blues of 2020 with a powerful fusion of classic R&B, alternative pop, and ethereal elements—all merged in her newest intergalactic love song ‘Alien Disco’ now available on all streaming platforms.
This single is the first track taken from her upcoming album ‘I Can’t Pretend’, which will be available in November. Produced and mastered by Anoesis, with lyrics written by Vali Woods, the track’s spacey and ambient sound stirs up the nostalgia of early Lady Gaga noughties Pop. Vali’s inventive lyricism perfectly captures how love is a force that carves out a world reserved for only one person—and how its profound mystery cannot be contained by one dimension.
‘Alien Disco’ pays homage to an ‘80s disco party vibe but transports you to a dance floor. Time and reality is suspended in this timeless single, as it blends past, present, and future sounds.
Influenced by the music of Tinashe, Lady Gaga, and Rihanna, among others, Vali believes that music can pave the way for healing. Her genre-blurring style pushes for liberation from restrictions, as she champions the themes of love, loss, and mental health—while showcasing a piece of her spirituality that she hasn’t shared to her audience before. Vali’s authenticity and persistence shine through, with more than 100,000 streams on Spotify.
The new single “Alien Disco” is out, what is the song about?
Alien Disco is an intergalactic love song with elements of pop, hip-hop and spirituality. Intended to uplift the listener and encapsulate the feeling of divine love.
I wanted to draw on spiritual elements which are prominent in my lifestyle and beliefs and incorporate that into my music with a fresh sound for my fans.
I also wrote this song for humanity, to heal and raise our vibration at a time when the world needs it most!
As you were born in LA but grew up in Melbourne, do these two cities have any impact on your music?
They both definitely play a role in my musicality. Being born in LA, and having spent a lot of time there, I’ve been heavily influenced by the hip-hop culture that’s prevalent there. Whereas, Melbourne has a very different sound and vibe which is why I feel like my sound is unique and I don’t really sound like anyone even the artists I’m inspired by and use as references. I definitely don’t make cookie-cutter Hip-Hop/R&B music.
You were doing Yoga and wellness teaching before, what made you change and start your music career? Has this shift in career changed your life too?
I love yoga and health, except realised that I am passionate about it as a lifestyle rather than a career. Music was something I had always dreamed of doing but didn’t have the courage to pursue until I decided I couldn’t hold the desire any longer without sharing it with others. It’s totally changed my life - it’s contributed to my evolution where I think, see, hear, dress and act differently. My connection to music has become the focal point and the way I listen to and hear music is radically different in the best way possible.
Are you a self-taught Artist?
I was always naturally gifted with voice and have had quite a lot of vocal training in the last few years to help with my technical performance. I’m currently learning to play the piano also. In terms of being a recording artist, I’ve spent hours working with various producers and engineers which has contributed to my learning the ropes in the studio and led to my deep involvement in the mixing process.
How would you describe your music?
My music is a unique blend of different genres including Hip-Hop/R&B/Pop and features both rap and melody. Some songs and visuals can be quite polarising as I like to push boundaries, but the themes I speak to such as sexuality, empowerment, love and loss come through prominently nonetheless.
What/Who are your musical influences?
My musical confluence comes from my spiritual connection to God and the Universe. I create the best when I get into a flow state. I’m also inspired by many artists such as Drake, Rihanna, Whitney Houston, Lady Gaga, Miley Cyrus, DaniLeigh, The Weeknd, Sade, Iggy Azalea.
What message do you want the audience to receive from your music?
I want my audience to feel understood, to be inspired to live an authentic life and to feel free & empowered.
On your social media hashtags, there are some related to feminism, is this one of the main themes within your music?
Yes, it is! I get so much joy from expressing my sexuality, femininity and goddess nature, which I don’t believe should be shamed or looked down upon. I’m an advocate for body love as someone who spent many years feeling shame around body image and think it’s something that should be truly celebrated.
You talked about mental health recovery on social media, do you have any advice for people who are struggling?
Yes, I’m very open about mental health recovery as I feel it’s something that needs to be discussed more by all. My advice is to take excellent care of yourself and ASK FOR HELP (if you need it). I couldn’t have gotten through without support from multiple family, friends and health professionals. Keep the faith and stay the course - this too shall pass.
Congratulations on the upcoming album, could you tell us more about this album?
The album is called ‘I Can’t Pretend’ and it has 10 songs on it. It definitely takes the listener on a journey, with so many different soundscapes and vibes. I covered a lot of ground in terms of musical style and themes. There’s something for everyone on it and there’s a lot to seek your teeth into and I really can’t wait for everyone to hear it!
Has the lockdown/pandemic this year affected your music-making process?
The majority of my album was done before the pandemic began so it slightly impacted the time it took to put the finishing touches on but mostly affected the ability to perform live.
What music have you been listening to recently?
Recently I’ve been listening to The Weeknd, Big Sean, Jhene Aiko and Alicia Keys. I follow the newest music that releases from my peers and like to stay up to date with the industry.
Any plans for the future after the album release?
Make more music and hopefully more albums to come. More performances too when the world opens up!
What would you say to an aspiring artist?
Stay true to your artistry and values, don't be afraid to push the boundaries of ‘normal’. Stay consistent, persistent and keep the faith.
Interview | Eva Leung