“Lifetime Supply” by Helena May
London collides with Vienna, funk blends with soul and we welcome Helena May. Helena May delivers a dynamically refined sophisticated pop that is seasoned with a lot of funk and enriched with soul.
Her musical "Sturm und Drang" phase started in the 90s and 00s, when she discovered her affinity for music, inspired by Incognito, The Brand New Heavies or Joss Stone. In 2021 she launched her dazzling debut album “Funkalicious” and on the horizon the next long-playing record in the form of “Puzzle Pieces” is already emerging.
The first sample that we have listened to from it is “Lifetime Supply”, a funky pop track that occasionally flashes light acid jazz nuances and will certainly appeal to the admirers of soul. A relaxed-cool, but above all catchy bass line captivates the listener and compels them onto the dance floor. Helena May confidently uses her qualities and dances, elegant and graceful like a cat on the roof, between the genres. “Lifetime Supply” is a virtuoso balancing act and a synthesis of the great styles of groove, in which quality enjoys the highest priority.
Helena May shows with her captivating new release what musical passion means and delivers vocally a gem that was shaped and polished in the forge of groove. Chapeau and onto the playlist!
Helena, thank you for your time. Let us begin with the following questions:
Who is Helena May as a person behind the artist and what or who ignited your passion for music?
Hey, thank you so much! Oh wow, well - I'm someone who loves brunch, the sea and nature. I discovered my love of Funk-Soul music when I heard Jamiroquai's "A Funk Odyssey" for the first time at the age of twelve. When I pressed play on the CD player, it was the "my whole world changed" moment.
What are the main influences on your musical style?
It has to be - the Drum Grooves, Bass-Lines, Horn Hooks and Vocal Melodies of the 70s, 90s and 00s. My fave bands of all time are Jamiroquai, Incognito and The Brand New Heavies - the pioneers of British Acid-Jazz, Funk & Soul. Your latest track, “Lifetime Supply”, creates an amazing sophisticated pop atmosphere. What inspired you to compose it?
Thank you! I initially thought "Lifetime Supply" would be a love-song about my partner - but whilst creating the melodies and discovering the recurring themes in the lyrics - the song revealed itself to be a love-song for myself and others who can relate to the struggles of self comparison. "Lifetime Supply" is all about finding a lifetime supply of happiness in you, before anything else.
What do you think is the most challenging aspect of completing a song and what did you struggle with the most this time?
I think speaking your truth in song is an exposing and challenging thing. Stories of self comparison seem to be a reoccurring theme in my writing. I'm learning to embrace these discoveries and encourage others to embrace theirs too, whatever it may be. That's the challenge - but a good healthy one. To enjoy the ride and see where it takes you - being vulnerable and truthful holds strength and it should be told and celebrated :)
“Lifetime Supply” will also be part of your upcoming record ‘Puzzle Pieces’. What can we expect from it?
Yes, that's right, wahooo! "Puzzle Pieces" will be my second original record releasing throughout 2024 - I'm so excited to reveal the pieces as we continue this journey. Expect funkiness, catchy melodies and truthful Lyrics. My aim is to always strive for relatability with some fun along the way,
Looking back on your catalogue, what are your Top 3 recommendations of Helena May for our readers?
Diamond 101 - Where it all started: the first single release from my first Album - "Funkalicious" Struggle - A song of reflection with sassy-eletronic-funk - it's the "you can do this" song for everyone!
Trying - My Funk-Disco-Baby - you can't help but dance.
When will your fans have the opportunity to see you live on stage?
I have dates in Europe and the UK coming up:
AUSTRIA - Internationale Jazzwoche Burghausen - Saturday 16th March
LONDON - Royal Albert Hall w/ Kokomo + Average White Band - Thursday 2nd May
LONDON - Scala supporting Matt Johnson (Jamiroquai) - Friday 10th May
MUNICH - Die Lange Nacht Der Musik - Saturday 11th May
What is your opinion on social media? Is it more of a necessary evil or a good tool to promote yourself?
It's a good place to promote and connect with like-minded people. I always aim to enjoy it in healthy amounts for positive community interactions. It's always a balancing act!
You live in Vienna and London. What is the biggest difference between the cities in your view?
Vienna is by far, a lot smaller than London! I enjoy Vienna for its beauty, coffee culture and creative head-space at a home in the studio. London excites me though and I'm thankful to travel there often have shows between the UK & Austria. The UK is Home but Vienna has become my Second-Home, I feel so welcomed there.
What are you currently working on?
I'm currently working on releasing the "Puzzle Pieces" record over the next few months with single releases on Sheep Hill Records. I have some live shows with my band and we're in the process of filming more video musics and have some studio recordings lined up - it's a wonderfully, busy, creative time. I'm happy about it! :)
photo credits: Martin Steiger
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