Words by Art Jefferson
Photography by Anna Victoria Best and courtesy of Liza Owen

Sexy, sassy, stylish and more importantly, talented are truly only a few words to describe London-based singer Liza Owen. Born to a Cambodian mother and a British father, Owen’s fierceness is practically embedded in her music and undoubtedly in her fashion. It becomes evident why thousands and thousands of people follow the bombshell on Instagram. However, within her world of glamour is also a bursting pride about her Khmer heritage which she holds near and dear. In fact, Owen is a shining model for the Cambodian community in the UK and abroad. Yet while she effortlessly walks the line between both cultures, Liza Owen’s status should honestly be marked as ‘global’. And one thing is certain, she knows that the world is soon to be in the palm of her hands.

Performing since she was a youth, Liza Owen joined the EMI-signed band Dolly Rockers when she was 18, instantly admired for her powerful voice and sex appeal. When the group decided to part ways, Owen focused on her career as a solo artist while also active in fashion. Her latest recording “Mind Blown” is a feisty and fiery urban pop anthem that lets you know that she is back and better than ever. Sit back and witness the explosion.

Art Jefferson – At what age did you understand the strength of your voice? It is quite powerful.

Liza Owen – It’s a tough question. I still don’t fully understand my voice! It’s always developing. I’ve known I could sing (in tune at least!) since I was about 7. That’s when I became obsessed with it but it’s not until quite recently that I’ve fully realised that my voice can really touch people. It’s so amazing when I get messages from people all over the world telling me that my voice has moved them in some kind of way.

Art Jefferson – You are half Cambodian (Khmer heritage) and half British. Talk about the inspiration that you draw from in terms of your cultural diversity and how it manifests into your music.

Liza Owen – Being half Khmer is a huge part of my identity. It’s such a rich culture so I’m constantly inspired by it and I take pride in paying homage to my Khmer roots in all my work. My next single “Young Guns” actually samples a monk chanting part of a Buddhist prayer. We started with the chant and then built a sort of marching band drum beat on top of it. My vocals and the melodies are much more influenced by my British roots. That’s just one example but I’m constantly blending the two cultures to come up with a unique sound.

Art Jefferson – Although you are from the UK, I’m sure that you’re looked at as someone who can carry the torch for England and Cambodia. Is there ever any feeling of pressure to have to fly both flags?

Liza Owen – There is always a small pressure as the two cultures are so different. Some things that are socially acceptable in the UK are not in Cambodia. So it’s just about finding the right balance. I don’t really worry too much though. I’m blessed to have the best of both worlds and hopefully I can teach the Brits something about Cambodia and vice versa.

Art Jefferson – Your track “Mind Blown” definitely has a lot of sass. It sounds like it’s a testament to say that the ‘storm’ is coming. At the end of the track you say that you’re “coming for the throne”. What’s the motivation behind the song?

Liza Owen – That’s exactly what I intended for this track to be. It’s just a cool sassy song that lets people know my intentions. In this industry there can be a lot of ‘no’s ‘, haters and people who will try to mould you into what they think you should be. Sometimes it’s not even about other people’s doubts. I’m my own worst critic and I need to learn to just trust myself more. The track is about being a force that can’t be stopped or controlled and proving all those people wrong. I think everybody can relate to that in some way.

Art Jefferson – You recently flew to Cuba to shoot a video. How was that adventure?

Liza Owen – CUBA IS AMAZING! That was an unforgettable trip. Firstly, it was my first music video but, also because it’s such a unique place. It’s like stepping in a time machine back to the 50’s! At first I found the lack of internet at phones a bit of a struggle. Especially when you’re trying to organise a music video! After a while though, it became really refreshing. People just hang out in the streets of Havana all day and everyone is so friendly. Of course there was a lot of rum…too much rum! But when in Rome…

Anyway, thanks to the help of the locals and a great director, Michelle Miglis, I think we really captured the Cuban vibe!

Art Jefferson – Your fashionable presence is unquestionable. People should also know that you’re a stylist as well. How long have you been working in fashion?

Liza Owen – Thank you! Well, it’s something that I sort of fell in to. I was looking for something to pay the bills but I’m definitely not one for the office job. I’ve always been obsessed with fashion and started posting my outfits and style inspiration on a blog, and after a while I started getting asked to style for photo shoots and for people personally. That was around 2 years ago and it’s been a lot of fun!

Art Jefferson – Finally, what can we expect in terms of sound on your forthcoming E.P?

Liza Owen – You can expect to see new sides of me. I’m a Gemini so if that says anything at all it’s that there are many dimensions to my music. There will be a blend of soaring chants, fun, sassy music you want to jam to and a softer more ambient side to me. I love old soul jams and beautiful melodies so there will be a bit of that in there.

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