Establishing herself early with a series of high-profile collaborations with some of the biggest names in grime and UK Funky before moving on to work with respected names such as Stanton Warriors, Crazy Cousinz, The Manor and Yxng Bane, Lily McKenzie has built a reputation around her thoughtful lyrics, emotive vocal tones and distinctive flow.

‘Best You Had’ is an R&B-infused modern pop jam, pairing Lily’s soulful vocals with smooth-yet-punchy production. “I wrote ‘Best You Had’ a couple of years ago with producers Zdot and Krunchie,” says Lily. “For me the song is both emotional, touching on the sadness of losing something you thought was real and had put energy into, but also powerful; it’s about knowing you’re worth and what you are willing to compromise on, and what you won’t.”

She has now announced her Caged Bird EP is out April 23rd and her brand new single ‘Best You Had’ is out today on all streaming platforms.

Lily 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 started writing poems when I was little, I actually always wanted to write before I wanted to sing. Then I started singing with a grime crew who lived near me and I guess that sparked my passion for singing and performing.

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

I grew up listening to a lot of R&B, my favourite artist was Aaliyah, but I also loved artists like Jagged Edge, Nivea, Monica, Joe and Teedra Moses. I like a lot of different types of music, If I could work with anyone in the future it would be Jamie XX, Kendrick Lamar, Ghetts and Kaytranada!

3. What are some of the problems you have faced making and releasing the music during the coronavirus pandemic?

I’d say the biggest problem has been inspiration. Most of the time I’ve been able to draw from past experiences, or to talk about things I’ve learnt about myself within the space we’ve all been given - but sometimes you just need to get out and take a break in order to have something to write about, which we can’t do. There’s only so many isolation themed songs you can write! Ha.

4. How would you describe your sound?

I’d say it’s a mixture of R&B and electronic music, there’s a definite UK influence – I’ve always been into grime, UK Funky and Garage and those influences definitely come through in my sound.

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

I’d say releasing music is always a proud moment, particularly this EP as it’s an independent release– I made the whole thing down to the artwork, to the music – to physically putting it out there. Performing at amazing venues and festivals or hearing your music on the radio always feels really amazing, but actually putting music out, music that started from nothing in your bedroom is always the best feeling!

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

Just to trust your journey, it takes time – nothing happens over night, but as long as you are staying true to yourself that’s all that matters. My favourite saying is ‘there are no losers in this game, just winners who give up before their time’ and I really believe that!

7. Are there any artists on your radar at the moment that we should check out?

I love Tems, she’s got a song called ‘Free Mind’ that I’ve had on repeat. Also loving an artist called Meron Addis, and another artist called Samthing Soweto.

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

Ghetts - Conflict of Interest, Erykah Badu – Baduizm, Fleetwood Mac, and Arctic Monkeys – AM.

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

I like to exercise, mainly Yoga or boxing. I like to hang out with my friends, and I love to go out to hear live music or DJs I’m in to.

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

1. Tea! I drink so much tea, makes me feel at home in the studio

2. My note book, I like to write my lyrics on paper. I find it better than writing on my phone because I get distracted otherwise.

3. Snacks, when I’m in the studio all the rules go out the window, everything that’s unhealthy I’m eating it. chocolate, crisps, biscuits and sweets.

“Best You Had” is available now on all major streaming platforms.