LÉON - 'Pretty Boy'
Newly independent and ready to enter a new chapter in her career, Swedish singer-songwriter LÉON makes a dazzling return in her latest synthy pop single ‘Pretty Boy’.
The songstress initially made a name for herself in 2015, with her contemporary pop records taking elements of sounds from the ‘80s and offering a refreshing twist. Three EPs and LPs later, LÉON is back with her first release since her 2022 album ‘Circles’.
Taken from her forthcoming album, ‘Pretty Boy’ symbolises new beginnings and welcomed change. Drawing on themes of nostalgia and time passing by, the track serves as a powerful reminder to make the most of every moment. An earworm chorus offers the perfect balance of sentimentality and progression, with thought-provoking lyricism stating ‘Hey, where you been all this time / If the end is near / We better make it count’.
Discussing the track, LÉON explains “‘Pretty Boy’ is a song about time. About making up for the time you’re lost and what kind of future you’re hoping for. About choosing to be happy, in a way, and how you can remain connected to certain people and places without seeing them for the longest time. Right after it was written I knew it has to be the first single.”
Showcasing a synth-laden sound reminiscent of MUNA and CHVRCHES, the new track has a liberatingly weightless feel, while holding space for more sombre moments. Simultaneously mellow and energetic, subtle guitar riffs and driving drumbeats provide an ambient backdrop to LÉON’s ethereal leading vocals. With gospel-infused harmonies forming an inescapably catchy hook, the track offers just under 4 minutes of blissful pop escapism.
While LÉON has been steadily proving herself as a promising rising name for some time, ‘Pretty Boy’ secures her as a force to be reckoned with in the pop scene. Thriving in her newfound sense of autonomy, LÉON has undeniably kickstarted her career as an independent artist and we anticipate that there is far more to come.
Words by Emily Savage
