Irish pop sensation LYRA recently unveiled her new single “Freak” providing an empowering anthem that celebrates womanhood. Taking a departure from her usual focus on love and heartbreak, LYRA declares 2025 as her own, focusing on the people and things that build her up and make her happy. “Freak” does just that! A feel-good track to raise up women and champion the power of a woman’s sexuality, “Freak” is liberating, uplifting and oozes with confidence and sass.
Last year, the Cork-born artist released her debut, self-titled album which skyrocketed to number one in the Irish album charts, outselling Beyonce. As she enters into this year continuing to evolve and push boundaries, the future looks bright for LYRA.
Noctis Magazine spoke to LYRA about the new single, female empowerment and future plans for this unstoppable force.
“Freak” is a powerful anthem about embracing your sexuality and confidence. Can you tell us about what inspired this shift in focus for you, away from writing about love and heartache?
I was sick to death of writing about my ex-boyfriend so from now on it’s all about me, my sexuality as a woman, the wild side to me, the fun side, the freak side. I want listeners to realise it’s okay to let your guard down and leave that freak you have inside out. I know society has us all scared to death to be different but this track is all about being that inner freak. It’s time to celebrate ourselves.
The track has a very bold and addictive energy. How did you and your collaborators—Bill Maybury and Kingdoms—bring that vision to life in the studio?
When I went into the studio I knew I wanted it to sound sassy, bad ass and have a lot of grit. The boys welcomed this idea with open arms and although I was a bit mortified to start sharing my lyric ideas, everyone threw themselves into the freaky side of things.
You’ve said “Freak” is about the power of a woman’s sexuality. Could you share more about why you felt it was important to write a song like this at this point in your career?
I’m finally accepting myself for who I am. My womanly curves I was told to hide for so long I have embraced and I wanted to share the beauty of self acceptance. I am a woman and I do have a sexual side so why wouldn’t I show it in my songwriting.
“Freak” has an edge to it that’s very different from your past tracks. Do you think this is a sign of the new direction you’re taking with your music in 2025 and beyond?
I think it’s a sign of growth as an artist and a woman. I think it’s a sign of self love and the power to not be scared anymore in my creativity. Before I would not have had the confidence to write a song like this. My self esteem was too low and I was too worried about what people would say. Now I’m writing for myself.
Your musical journey seems to be full of fearless moves. What do you think has been the biggest risk you’ve taken so far, and how has it paid off?
I took some time out when my nan fell ill to look after her until she passed. It was a big turning point in my career and taking time out at that moment stopped some momentum in my career. It’s a decision I would make over and over again no matter what the effect it would have on my career. I would also have my voice but my time with my nan was coming to an end. This was my first real heartbreak and it taught me so much about myself and my priorities in life. Once I realised it’s ok to say no, it truly was freeing.
Last year, you performed in front of 30 thousand people during your headline Irish tour. Can you share any funny stories or memorable moments from the tour?
One night while walking out to the intro of my set the arse of my jumpsuit completely ripped! I didn’t have time to turn back so I had to do the full set with a massive hole in my pants!!!!!! I’m not one to hide so I told the audience to be aware and we all have a big laugh about it.
Looking ahead, after this powerful anthem, what’s next for you? Any new collaborations or exciting projects you’re working on that you can share with us?
2025 is going to be such a fun year full of very exciting songs and sounds from me. I feel like it’s the year I’m really going to test myself and break some rules along the way. It’s the year of me and not giving a fuck!
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Photographer: Mikey Aldridge
Words: Alexander Williams