London, UK – The vibrant music scene welcomes a new talent as emerging singer-songwriter Helen King unveils her highly anticipated debut album, “Look Back No More”.
Helen King – The release of “Look Back No More” marks not only the beginning of her musical journey but also hints at an exciting and influential career ahead, one that is sure to enrich the contemporary music landscape.
Photography by – David Broome©
@bellboymusic
LONDON VIBE
London, UK – The vibrant music scene welcomes a new talent as emerging singer-songwriter Helen King unveils her highly anticipated debut album, “Look Back No More”. This milestone was celebrated with an official launch event on February 11, 2025, held at The Water Rats, a historic and iconic venue nestled in Kings Cross, London. With this release, Helen King is set to make a remarkable entrance, showcasing the energetic sound of her Indie Rock band and introducing a fresh, captivating voice to music enthusiasts everywhere.
INFLUENCE
Drawing from a diverse palette of influences, Helen King’s music delivers an emotive and multifaceted listening experience. Her rich soundscape is shaped by the raw intensity of PJ Harvey and the poetic storytelling of Patti Smith while also resonating with the contemporary vibes of artists like Girl in Red and Tame Impala. Helen’s heartfelt lyrics are infused with an introspective quality reminiscent of Alanis Morissette and layered with the harmonious beauty typical of First Aid Kit. With a focus on personal growth, strength, and the intricate tapestry of human emotion, her songs delve deep into the complexities of the human experience.
Helen King – The Journey
“Look Back No More” is more than just a collection of songs; it is an invitation to listeners to embark on a transformative journey. Each track is crafted with precision, encouraging audiences to confront their own experiences and emotions through Helen’s powerful and relatable storytelling. The album reflects her artistic evolution, showcasing her ability to connect profoundly with her audience as she shares her own narratives of strength and self-discovery.
As Helen King steps boldly into the spotlight, a sense of excitement surrounds her potential to make a lasting impact on the music industry. Her dynamic sound, coupled with her insightful lyrics, promises to resonate with a wide array of listeners, captivating hearts and minds alike. The release of “Look Back No More” marks not only the beginning of her musical journey but also hints at an exciting and influential career ahead, one that is sure to enrich the contemporary music landscape.
Helen King – Interview
Your debut album, Look Back No More, has just been released. What emotions were you feeling on the day of the launch?
I was on a big high, for sure! I felt both excitement for the future and gratitude for this amazing moment in my life. It was an 18-month journey from recording my first demo to the album release, and it was a real joy to see it streaming so well. I had loads of people at the launch gig, and we had a riot. There was a wardrobe malfunction, though. My outfit broke just before I went on stage, and my friend had to quickly sew it up with a needle and thread!!
I launched the album at ‘The Water Rats’ in London, and it was a euphoric night. It had always been my dream to play at the venue where Bob Dylan, Oasis and countless other stars had played.
Look back No More
Can you share the story behind the album title? What does “Look Back No More” signify for you?
“Look Back No More” is a line from the lead single track “Back in The Day”. I wanted to send a message to people listening that the past is the past – we can’t change it – so let’s look forward to new and exciting things and new possibilities. So many of us are caught in the past; I found myself thinking, “No, we should all look forward”.
Your music draws from a diverse range of influences. How have artists like PJ Harvey and Patti Smith shaped your sound?
Music has been in my life from the moment I was born (actually before because my older brother would play songs to my mum’s pregnant bump!), and so it runs in my veins. There was always music on at home, and strong female acts always stood out for me as inspiring: Patti Smith, Joni Mitchell, Stevie Nicks, Debbie Harry, PJ Harvey and Tori Amos. Bjork. They definitely shaped my sound, and I think my album has tones of all of these great women.
Routine
What is the songwriting process like for you? Do you have a particular routine or ritual you follow?
I always sit cross-legged on the floor with my guitar to start, but sometimes, I dive off to the piano if I feel that will help me develop the melody better.
I used to write from the start through to the end in a linear fashion. More recently, I have been experimenting with writing over music, writing the chorus first, and also not adhering to well-trodden song structures. My songwriting has come a long way in a short space of time – so I am really learning my craft. I am writing and recording my second album now with a major label, so it’s all very exciting.
Your lyrics often explore themes of personal growth and resilience. Can you tell us about a specific experience that inspired your songwriting?
Highs And Lows
I think modern life throws a lot at us, and we have highs and lows. My lyrics are from the heart, and in the back of my mind, I also feel sure other people have these same feelings and experiences. I know that music has always been a source of resilience for me, and songwriters are to me like friends who are helping you through – when I feel low, I usually reach for the classics: The Beatles, Dylan, R.E.M. Fleetwood Mac and of course, Taylor Swift – She is one amazingly strong woman!
What was your favourite song to write on this album, and what makes it so special to you?
My favourite song to write was ‘Whatever Makes You Happy’ its about someone who was mean to me and who seemed to only care about themselves and it was fun to be calling out bad behaviour and to release some negative feelings. Writing songs is really good therapy !!
Collaboration
If you could collaborate with any artist, living or dead, who would it be and why?
Paul McCartney – without a doubt. Although I would be so in awe, I might not be able to speak, let alone sing! I’ve seen him in concert, and I was very starstruck. The Beatles are my all-time favourite band – they basically mopped up pop music in a decade and barely left anything for anyone else. They were hugely influential in everything that followed.
The live launch at The Water Rats was a significant moment for you. How did that experience compare to your expectations?
It definitely exceeded expectations. I had a lot of fan support and friends and family, so it felt really special. I was surprised people were singing the words! It’s an amazing feeling when people sing along to the song you wrote – it’s such a brilliant feeling of connection.
Music
How do you connect with your audience through your music? What do you hope they take away from your songs?
I tend to focus on the feelings I feel because I think they are relatable to any human. I always say writing a song is like turning your insides out and showing everyone ‘which is a bit of a gruesome image – but it is unfiltered, unabashed, and raw. I think people respond to that sort of honesty.
As a rising artist in the Indie Rock scene, what challenges have you faced so far, and how have you overcome them?
The biggest challenge has been social media for me because it doesn’t sit that comfortably with me to promote myself. Instagram and TikTok are really important platforms, so I have realised I need help from media folk to promote myself. It feels weird saying, “Yeah, I’m really great – so you should be a fan of mine” So, for me, it’s more about raising awareness of the music and the chance to come and connect with me at my live shows.
Different
Helen king – Podcast
What do you think sets you apart from other singer-songwriters currently in the industry?
I have a lot to say about a lot of things (lol!) and I genuinely want to move music forward in a progressive way. I want to grow into becoming more brave in experimenting with music and creating exciting, fresh material that has its own life.
Can you describe a defining moment in your musical journey that made you realise you wanted to pursue this career?
I remember singing in my bedroom at a young age, pretending to be Madonna. I just decided there, and then I wanted to be on stage (perhaps not in a pointy bra!), but it took time to actually have the guts to do it.
I have had a lot of help along the way from people who have supported and encouraged me, and without them, I wouldn’t have believed in myself.
London
How has living in London influenced your music and artistic perspective?
London is an amazing City full of very cool people 😎. You can be weird and different in London or just be whoever you want to be, and London will give you a home. I guess London taught me to be who I am and be proud. There are so many amazing artists and musicians everywhere you look in London, and so much talent and potential – but what I don’t see are the A&R people. Where are they? They should be in music venues, not monitoring likes of line.
What’s next for you after this album release? Are there any exciting projects or collaborations on the horizon?
I am already writing and recording my second album, and that will be my focus for the rest of the year. I will be playing with a new band set up in the autumn which Im also really excited about.
Finally, if you could give one piece of advice to aspiring musicians, what would it be?
Go for it, work hard, and never give up.
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