Q&A: Layla Black on Debut Single, "Let's Say"
WRITTEN BY AMRITA KUMAR
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The best way to emerge into the music scene is with a clear voice and a grounded sense of identity, and Berklee College of Music student Layla Black does exactly this with her debut single, “Let’s Say.” Blending genre influences like punk and indie pop, she blends raw storytelling with bold production, setting the tone for a promising start.
What sets Black apart is her commitment to authenticity. Instead of chasing trends and following the mainstream, she focuses on music that feels honest and relatable - whether she’s singing about growth, heartbreak, or everything in between.
Black opens about her creative process, the inspiration behind her debut release, and what she hopes audiences will resonate with in her music.
LIFE ON JUPITER: First of all, the single is amazing. I’ve been listening to it on the way to work all week. Congratulations! This is your first single, so how does it feel to have it out in the world?
BLACK: Honestly, it feels like a relief. I’m just so happy other people finally get to hear it, because I’ve been listening to it over and over during the editing process for months. Every time I’d show my friends a new “almost finished” piece, I’d say, “There’s more coming!” So I’m glad everyone finally has all the puzzle pieces.
How has the response been so far?
BLACK: Everyone really enjoyed it. I’ve had people at school come up to me quoting the lyrics, which is crazy. It’s so nice hearing people tell me their favorite parts of the song. As a music lover, I know what it feels like to have a favorite lyric, so when people do that with mine, I’m like “What?” I feel famous.
What made you choose this song as your debut?
BLACK: I actually wrote four songs in one week, and “Let’s Say” was one of them. I originally thought I’d turn them into an EP, but I didn’t touch the others again. “Let’s Say” had the kind of hook that sticks with people. It leaned pop but still had that indie rock feel I love. All the songs were about the same situation, but this one summed it up best. I also love unreliable narrator storytelling. Billie Eilish does that, where you’re not totally sure whose POV it is. I wanted to introduce that side of my writing right away.
How much did the song change from demo to final version?
BLACK: Production-wise, the beginning used to be all strumming and no fingerpicking. A few lyrics changed too, like tiny tweaks. I originally had one swear word in there, but it pulled you out of the story, so we took it out. My producer honestly read my mind, so most of what I imagined ended up in the final version.
Was the writing process a slow build or sudden burst?
BLACK: Total burst. All the songs from that week poured out of me. I went to bed and woke up knowing I had to finish it. The edits later were just little “I wrote this at midnight so let’s polish it” moments.
What’s your favorite part of the song?
BLACK: The guitar on the bridge! My friend Tessa Cullen played it, and she’s amazing. That descending line adds so much intimacy. And I love when the hums return at the end over all the chaos because it feels like how the relationship felt. Messy, but with something sweet glazing over it.
Did you always know you wanted it to start soft and build into chaos?
BLACK: 100%. I was really inspired by Olivia Rodrigo’s GUTS. Songs like “all-american bitch” that go from calm to explosive. I wanted more of a build rather than a sudden flip, and I think we nailed that.
So how would you describe your sound to new listeners?
BLACK: Indie pop meets indie rock. If you like the GUTS vibe, some sarcasm like Sabrina Carpenter, and a little bedroom angst, then I’m your girl.
Any other influences on this track?
BLACK: Production-wise, definitely “Better Than Revenge” by Taylor Swift. The drums on that track have this grit I love. My producer actually worked at the studio where that song’s drums were recorded, so he knew exactly what I meant.
Let’s talk about the cover art. What inspired it?
BLACK: I wanted chaos, so sunset colors, movement, energy. My photographer Noelle randomly told me to whip my hair around. We didn’t know we’d use the shot, but it just worked. We added purple streaks afterward. People at my music school talk about synesthesia all the time, like “This song sounds purple,” so it felt right. To me, the purple streaks are like the hums. Chaos with a little sweetness layered on top.
Since you mentioned Taylor Swift earlier, what era would you say you’re stepping into?
BLACK: Probably the Reputation era. I’ve always identified with that one because of the production and the writing. Maybe some Speak Now rock vibes too.
Can fans expect more music or live shows soon?
BLACK: Definitely live shows. I’m based in Boston right now for school. I want to stream shows too so people back home can watch. Music-wise, I’m focused on getting “Let’s Say” out there, but I’m writing and producing new stuff. Hopefully something at the very end of the year or spring.
What surprised you most in the making of the song?
BLACK: Honestly, how long it took for me to let go of my demo brain, especially for the bridge. We had two versions of the drums, and I was attached to the first one even though everyone told me the new one was better. It’s demo-itis! But I came around, the final version really captures the intimacy I wanted.
Anything you want to leave listeners with?
BLACK: I’m just glad people are resonating with it. I do all my own marketing, so I’m planning things like an acoustic live version, and the music video is on the way soon. Storytelling through visuals is such a big piece of the puzzle, and I can’t wait for people to see that side of it too.