Georgia Ku on her creative process, new single, and self-care
Georgia Ku is a multiplatinum singer and songwriter who’s penned tunes for Rita Ora, Fifth Harmony, Skrillex, and Kiiara as well as the platinum collaboration “Scared To Be Lonely” by Martin Garrix and Dua Lipa. Her voice also powered NOTD & Felix Jaehn’s chart-busting international smash “So Close” [feat. Georgia Ku & Captain Cuts]. In 2019, she introduced her own sound with her single “What Do I Do?”, which Billboard called “the perfect electro-pop breakup anthem.” Now, Georgia’s 2020 EP Real [Atlantic Records] invites you to follow along her journey, beginning with her newly released first single “Lighthouse.” We spoke with Georgia about her creative process, new single, and how she’s practicing self-care during these uncertain times. Here’s what Georgia said!
First of all, congratulations on releasing your new single, “Lighthouse”! What was it like releasing the single? What emotions did you feel sending it out into the world?
Thank you so much! I felt a few different emotions as I was a little nervous to release music when there’s so many major movements happening right now and I didn’t want to veer away from the focus but at the same time felt that it was a perfect song to encourage people to be a light for someone.
Creativity is such a personal thing. What does your songwriting process look like? Do you have any rituals or routines to help boost your creativity, or is your songwriting more spontaneous?
It really depends on the day. Sometimes if I have something on my mind I want to talk about, I will bring it to the session, but most of the time I go with the feeling. As soon as I hear chords or instrumentation that inspire me, my mind will fill with melodies and the lyrics will follow.
We’re living in wild, changing times. Do you have any advice for creatives, especially creatives who are being hard on themselves for not creating as much during a pandemic?
Yes! It’s okay! In any creative industry you have to be so careful not to burn yourself out. It’s so important to take that time for yourself, no matter how long it may be. Rest, recharge and get re-inspired! In a world that’s so fast-paced we should be grateful for this unplanned time of rest.
Let’s talk about self-care. What does self-care mean to you? Do you have any favorite self-care practices (particularly ones for your mental and emotional health)?
It’s really important to me to live a healthy lifestyle. When I eat good and take care of my body, I feel good. I start every day with working out and I find journaling to be very helpful too! Surrounding myself with people who love and support me and who I can do the same for brings me so much joy.
We always love asking people this question. Every day on Womaze, we send out daily “Push Motivations,” which are messages of love and support. What’s one message you think the world needs to hear right now?
“Make sure your friends are okay.” This is not only my answer but also a company I am partnering with in release of my EP! It’s just an important message right now to open up deeper, darker conversations so we can really be a light for someone, anyone who needs it. Keep the ones you love close and check in! It may seem all good on the outside but you never know what kind of battles people are facing within. Invite them into a safe space. Make sure your friends are okay.
Follow along Georgia’s journey on Instagram, and watch the music video for "Lighthouse” below!