Montreal’s Cherry Lena isn’t your run-of-the-mill pop artist. After turning heads on “The Voice Quebec” in 2018, she’s evolved into a magnetic force. Melding R&B warmth with 1950s jazz nuances, the singer-songwriter elevated herself beyond a mere vocalist to an architect of sound, rich in emotional layering.
Lena’s recent release, “EDGE,” serves as a bold anthem for resilience. Conceived initially as a cry for help during a period of intense loneliness and isolation, the song took on a new meaning alongside the artist’s growth. It functions not merely as a musical piece but as a potent stimulant for those seeking an energetic and emotional uplift.
“Re-working it years after its initial composition, I was pleased to realize that I had evolved considerably since,” Lena shared. “I dedicate this song to my inner strength. To my resilience, to my inner-bad b*tch, who allowed me to become a flower that blooms in adversity. This is for my inner queen. Back then, I had yet to meet her.”
With each release, Cherry Lena refines her narrative, showcasing her ability to turn struggle into art. Below, we spoke to the songstress about her upbringing, bringing “EDGE” to life, her evolution as a musician, and more.
Taking a step back, walk me through your childhood. Did you always know you wanted to be a musician?
Fun fact: I actually wanted to be a ballerina first because I thought I’d get to wear a pink tutu everywhere I’d go. When I realized that wasn’t the case, I got disinterested in it and started singing. I was about five years old, and my parents were making me sing for everyone that would come over. It’s funny because my family still does that. I definitely feel like it has always been my calling.
I read that you grew up in Montreal. Did the city’s music scene influence you in any sort of way?
I definitely connected with some artists here who inspired me a great deal along the way! The anglophone music scene here being sort of smaller and quite ignored by the rest of the Quebec music scene, we tend to stick together.
So, how would you describe your sound now for someone who hasn’t heard your music before?
Sad girl energy and alt-pop.
Speaking of, you put out “EDGE” in September — it’s your first single of the year. What inspired this record?
It started as a cry for help. “I’m on the edge” in the sense of, “Get me out of here, save me from myself.” I remember that I couldn’t stand my loneliness back then. I dedicate this song to my inner strength. To my resilience, to my inner bad b**ch, who allowed me to become a flower that blooms in adversity. This is for my inner queen. Back then, I had yet to meet her.
In between last year’s “Toxic Woman” and now, how do you feel like you’ve grown as an artist?
“Toxic Woman” had a different purpose as it was more of a slow, sad song portraying my inner narrative when I’m going through a depressive episode. Sonically, “EDGE” is more channeled by dark feminine energy and feminine rage. It’s blending pop with drum and bass. “EDGE” is definitely more of a confidence booster and a song to listen to when you want to feel energized and pumped.
How do you think that your fashion style has evolved in that time?
My style is definitely always changing. I don’t restrict myself to only one style, and I like to pull off whatever look or aesthetic I like at that moment. Life is too short not to have fun with it! I’m into the E-girl, Goth-girl, fairycore vibes these days, and I’m having lots of fun with it.
In the spirit of moving on, what’s next for you? What are the future goals?
I’m actually working on my first-ever EP, and it’s gonna be a French EP. I’m really excited about this new project!!
