Lee Lewis - HOWL (EP) + 10 Questions

Following a standout headline show in Los Angeles, rising R&B artist Lee Lewis returns with HOWL, a six track EP that blends vintage soul, contemporary R&B, trip hop and cinematic pop into his most personal project yet.

Rooted in vulnerability, HOWL explores love, identity and healing through the lens of Lewis' experience as a Black queer artist. His classically trained vocals and signature falsetto glide across rich, expansive production, creating a collection that feels both intimate and cinematic.

Opening track "Forever & You" sets the tone with understated instrumentation that allows Lewis' voice to take centre stage, while standout single "Your Love (What I'm Dying For)" pairs soulful guitars with sparse percussion to deliver one of the EP's most emotionally resonant moments.

Lewis also puts his own stamp on Nelly Furtado's "Maneater", transforming the pop classic into a sleek, soulful reimagining inspired by a relationship he describes as both magnetic and destructive. Elsewhere, the deeply personal "White Flag" and reflective "The Long Way" continue the EP's themes of emotional reckoning before closer "Bitter" brings the journey to a hopeful conclusion.

Raised in Los Angeles' Ladera Heights, Lewis' musical foundation spans gospel, jazz, classical training and vintage soul, with influences ranging from Sam Cooke and Jill Scott to Portishead and Amy Winehouse. That broad palette shines throughout HOWL, which was created alongside co-writer Bijou Choder and producer youthxl (Roméo Testa).

Already earning praise from publications including The New York Times, Wonderlandand Clash, Lee Lewis continues to establish himself as one of R&B's most compelling emerging voices. HOWL is a confident statement of artistic growth and a strong introduction to an artist finding his own sound.

Lee Lewis sat down with Wordplay Magazine to answer our infamous 10 Questions:

1. So tell me, how did it all begin? What sparked your love for music?

I've got a bit of an interesting musical upbringing I'd say. On one hand I grew up on much of black music (soul, r&b, jazz, blues, the music of my culture and people), and on the other hand I thoroughly studied classical voice from a young age. At home I'd listen to Sade, Maxwell, Prince, Ella, Luther, and so many more due to my family, and during the day in school or when practicing I was copying French classical singer Gerard Souzay, Bryn Terfel, and many other baritones. I fell in love with both and for different reasons. One was given to me at birth, and the other I developed as I aged.

2. Who are some artists that influence you and that you want to work with in the future?

My favorite question! I'll start with the OG's like Sade, Maxwell, Seal and Erykah Badu. These are the ones I grew up, so It'd be so amazing to work with them in some capacity. It's a dream of mine to open for Seal on tour. As for newer acts, I'd say Lianne La Havas, Nick Hakim, Michael Kiwanuka, and Sampha. Jai Paul is a dream collaborator as well!

3. Tell us about your latest EP release, HOWL.

Ah yes. HOWL is my new baby. Love this project so much! This is my second release, and my best yet. It covers my growth in my late twenties. It's me going from being a puppy to a dog. It's me learning to use my voice after years of not having it. The 'HOWL' is primal, and raw. It's a cry for help in a bad relationship, but also a howl of freedom. It's bad experiences turned into good ones.

4. How would you describe your sound?

Let's say Cinematic R&B/Soul! I think it all points back to my background in music. The mix of R&B/Soul and Classical music. I think those combined have thrown me into that Cinematic Soul bucket. With that said, that's how I'd describe it right now, but likely to change in the future. As long as there's soul in the music. That's all that matters to me.

5. What's your proudest moment to date so far as an artist?

Honestly, my most recent headline show at The Echo in LA. It was my biggest and longest show to date and we nearly sold it out. It happened two days before HOWL was released. I built out a proper story arch and presentation for this show, including two "Acts", a costume change, and some beautiful singing. Amazing way to celebrate my project coming out!

6. Do you have any advice for our readers who may be trying to play the mad game of music?

Rely on your network of friends and creatives. You and your network should be building each other up while you come up. I think often when people come into music they want to immediately work with the industry juggernauts. You'd be surprised by the amount of talent that exists at your own level and within your network. Also it just makes a much more interesting story imo!

7. Are there any artists on your radar right now that we should check out?

I always gotta plug the homies on this question. One of them is definitely, Dani Offline. She joined me on my LA Echo Show. Jesus, what a voice she has. Big fan! Also, my good sis Mai Anna, who is literally my favorite singer. She sang backup for me on White Flag. If I were Ursula, that's the voice I'd steal haha. And last, HAFFWAY, who is also a good friend of mine. He worked with me on my last EP. One of the best writers in the game.

8. What albums are on heavy rotation on your Spotify playlist currently?

My top album of the year is absolutely going to be DUMMY by Portishead. Frank by Amy Winehouse, Adore by I:Cube, and Through The Wall by Rochelle Jordan. Give me the feels and moods, and intensity.

9. What do you like to do when you're not making music?

I love to go on long aimless walks. I cherish my alone time. So, some sort of walk around LA (yes you read that right). A bit of people watching during the walk as well. I love to watch how people engage with each other. Listen to the tones of their voices and surroundings.

10. Name 3 things you can't live without when in the studio?

I usually need my Grether's Gummies. Best way to get the voice to loosen up outside of warming up. Definitely need an allergy supplement as my allergies are out of control. And lastly a good outfit on. Gotta dress the part in the studio!