Fresh from the 2017 series of ‘The X Factor,’ whereby she was mentored by Nicole Scherzinger, Tracy Leanne Jefford has already made quite the impact on the music scene.
Since coming off the show, she has been writing and recording her own music, including releasing several singles, which include ‘Wish I Didn’t Love You’ and her current single, titled ‘Raise Your Hands.’
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Her new single ‘Raise Your Hands’ is the ultimate feminist and empowering anthem. The track is written for women all over the world and definitely will leave you feeling empowered! Through her music, she wants to be an inspiration to women in all situations and sending a positive message to listeners.
Here at CelebMix, we had the opportunity to exclusively speak with Tracy Leanne Jefford about ‘Raise Your Hands,’ her time on ‘The X Factor,’ what she has planned music-wise in the coming months and more. Keep reading to check out our exclusive interview with her!
You have recently released several of your original tracks. How does it feel to be able to release your own music, most recently ‘Raise Your Hands’?
“It feels absolutely amazing to release my own music. I was held back for so many years, being told I was never good enough and being put down for the way I looked. That’s why ‘Raise Your Hands’ is such an important song to me – it’s based on my own personal experiences. To have four singles out in under a year since leaving ‘The X Factor’ still feels surreal to me.”
‘Raise Your Hands’ is a very feminine song, with a strong message of empowerment throughout. Was it important for you to release a track about empowerment?
“Yes! Empowering women in such an important thing for me. Sometimes it is hard for a woman to find her voice and say enough is enough. Luckily, I found my voice and I got out of something so toxic. I want ‘Raise Your Hands’ to inspire and empower women to hold their heads high, be proud of who they are and never let no man tell them no!”
Will there be a music video for the single? If so, what can be expected from the video?
“Plans for a video are currently being spoken about. I want to get loads of women of all ages, sizes and ethnicities into a big white room and all dance to the song!”
Who are your musical influences?
“The Shirelles, The Ronettes, Amy Winehouse, Aretha Franklin, Etta James, Sam Cooke, The Temptations and Solomon Burke. There’s too many to name, but they are the stand-outs. I love Cardi B at the moment too – she is so sassy! I also love Lauryn Hill. Her ‘Miseducation’ album is an amazing piece of art. I’m seeing her live in Wembley in December – I can’t wait!”
Going back to your time on ‘The X Factor,’ what was your stand-out memory from your time on the show?
“My stand-out memory has to be being told I made Live Shows by Nicole. I was not expecting that in a million years – I was up against some great contestants. Performing for Stormzy was amazing too – I love him and his music!”
What was it like to be mentored by Nicole Scherzinger? Are you still in contact with her?
“She honestly is the most lovely, genuine and down to earth person I have met in this industry. She taught me to love myself again and I am forever thankful to her for that. She is such a laugh off the screen too. I have some amazing memories with her! I haven’t spoken to her in a while, but I hope to catch up with her soon.”
Are you watching the new series of the show? Who are you supporting in this series?
“I’m supporting my girl Scarlett Lee. We were on the show together last year. She always comments on my posts and writes lovely comments about my music and damn that girl can sing! I’m also supporting Bella Penfold. I see a lot of myself in her when I was that age. I think with the right direction and songs, she could be amazing.”
If you were auditioning for the show this year, what Judge would you have liked as your Mentor and why?
“I would love to be mentored by Ayda. I love her! She has brought something new and fresh to the show. As the only female Judge, she holds her own against Simon, Louis and Robbie. I reckon we would have a right laugh.”
Aside from your new single, what can be expected from you music-wise in the coming months?
“I have been recording non-stop with some amazing producers. I have a single ‘In The Rain’ coming out November/December. We are shooting the video for it in Kent next week actually. It’s such a beautiful song with piano and violins.
I’m having a listening party and performing all my originals acoustically on Wednesday 17 October at the ‘Finborough Arms’ in Fulham. It is a free event. If anyone would like to come, they can DM me on Instagram for Guest List.”
Finally, do you have a message for your supporters?
“I honestly cannot describe how truly thankful I am to everyone who has supported my journey thus far! My fans give me the support and motivation to keep recording and share my stories with them through the music.”
‘Raise Your Hands’ can be bought on iTunes by clicking here and the track can also be streamed on Spotify through the link below. In addition, the track is also available on all responsible music purchasing outlets.
Do you love ‘Raise Your Hands’ as much as we do here at CelebMix? Are you looking forward to hearing more music from Tracy Leanne Jefford in the coming months? Make sure you tweet us and let us know: @CelebMix.
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