Leslie Grace: Embracing Love, Emotions, and Creativity Through Music
Leslie Grace is making a triumphant return to the music scene with her latest single "Ayayay," marking the beginning of a new chapter filled with self-discovery, sensuality, and creative freedom. The Dominican American singer and actress is preparing to release her first full-length studio album in over a decade, blending R&B, tropical pop, and bilingual storytelling to create a unique sound that reflects her musical roots and evolving artistry.
In a recent interview with Us Weekly, Grace shared her journey of embracing love, emotions, and creativity in a more open and free-flowing manner. As she navigates between rehearsals, studio sessions, and filming her upcoming movie, she took the time to curate a mixtape of songs that have influenced her artistry, evoke childhood memories, and still resonate deeply with her.
Among the tracks on her mixtape is Whitney Houston's "Run to You," a song that showcases Houston's unmatched vocal talent and effortless delivery. Grace also highlighted India.Arie's "Strength, Courage & Wisdom" as a grounding anthem that helps her center herself mentally before performances. The nostalgic tune "In the Heights" from the musical of the same name holds a special place in her heart, reminding her of the best summer of her life and the pre-COVID era in New York City.
Growing up listening to her mother's favorite artist, Ana Gabriel, Grace developed a deep appreciation for the singer's music, particularly the song "Luna." She also reminisced about her early fangirling days over Britney Spears, whose track "I'm Not a Girl, Not Yet a Woman" was a karaoke favorite during her childhood. Maxwell's "Lifetime" and Amaro's "Still Feel It All" are songs that resonate with Grace on a romantic and emotional level, while Juan Luis Guerra's "La Bilirrubina" taps into her Dominican heritage and love for dance-inducing music.
As Leslie Grace embarks on this new musical journey, her mixtape serves as a reflection of the diverse influences and personal connections that have shaped her artistry over the years. With "Ayayay" setting the tone for what's to come, fans can expect a vibrant and authentic expression of Grace's unique voice and creative vision in her upcoming album.