London-based emerging artist Athena Skye breaks down her new single “Onlyfans” and more.
Last year, we instantly fell in love with Athena Skye’s catchy dark pop banger “4 Us”— an underrated track that has sadly gone under the radar. As an artist the London-based singer is known for her breathtaking vocals and raw lyrics paired with dark sonic elements.
She’s back with brand new single “Onlyfans”— a captivating song with mainstream appeal built over a stunning production. Lyrically, the song is inspired by digital culture and queer romance. We had an opportunity to have a chat with Athena about the single and more— read our conversation below:
How are you doing Athena?
I’m doing great, thanks for asking!
Where are you from?
Originally… Atlanta, GA, born and bred.
Nice! Is that where you’re based as well?
I’m actually based in London, England. Been here for quite a while now!
Amazing! Your sound reminds me of Ariana Grande and Madison Beer, but with dark undertones and a trap-infused vibe. Please name us five artists who inspired you to pursue a career in music?
Ah what a compliment! It’s funny, when I share new music on Tik Tok, people always think it’s Ariana Grande, which is insane to me… I feel like my voice might be more the Walmart version of hers (or Poundland version for my British people haha). She’s definitely always been a huge inspiration to me! Being from Atlanta, I grew up listening to a lot R&B and Rap music as well, so it kinda just felt natural when developing my sound. A few other notable artists I have a slight music crush on are Kehlani, Charli XCX, Ashnikko, and Lolo Zouaï.
No way! Guess those people have sharp ears too! And that’s an amazing list, artists we’re fans of too. Which one of those artists would you collaborate with first if you had the opportunity to do so?
Kehlani, 100%.
It’s been awhile since you last dropped a single, what have you been up to?
Writing loads, but also just living life— I think it’s healthy to take breaks sometimes just to experience new things… it gives me stuff to write about haha.
Do you plan on releasing more music this year?
YES! Let’s just say an EP is definitely on its way.
Looking forward to hearing it! Your new single “Onlyfans” is a bold and memorable dark pop track, what inspired you to write it?
I’m not gonna lie, by wanting to start an OnlyFans haha. During the pandemic, I was pretty broke (but aren’t all musicians starting out lol). At the time, I was also in a “situationship” with someone and wasn’t really sure how to DTR (define the relationship), so I did what any songwriter would do and wrote about it, which is how “Onlyfans” was born! Luckily, they loved the song and ended up co-starring in the music video.
Oh wow, that’s so interesting. Love how you managed to turn it into art. Talk us through the creative process.
So I wrote “Onlyfans” in a zoom session with two of my favorite collaborators, Julez and Eva- Lina. It was our first session together and we CLICKED instantly. After hours of back and forth voice notes and staring at my computer screen, I remember logging off that day with the biggest smile on my face, ‘cos I knew we wrote a BANGER!
That’s Amazing! What’s the message behind the song?
I think when you take away the word “Onlyfans”, it’s honestly a love song. It’s about being proud of the person you’re with, regardless of gender, sexuality or what you think people might say. As a queer woman, it’s definitely my gay anthem! I also feel like sex or sex work isn’t a topic I hear a lot of women sing about. Sex shouldn’t go unspoken or be taboo, like I’m young what do you expect?
What are some challenges you as a woman and emerging artist face in the music industry?
I think as an emerging female artist, it’s easy to compare yourself to others, especially other women. It’s something I’m still working on, but have learned to turn my insecurities into inspiration. Like instead of seeing a person and instantly comparing, I think ‘wow, they’re fucking talented, how can I learn from them?’
Well said! In your own words, what do you think the industry needs to do to protect women?
Lol this might sound bad, but just fix men. I swear they’re broken sometimes haha.
Couldn’t agree more! What’s next? Do you have any upcoming shows?
Ahh I NEED to do another show! I’ve got loads of new music lined up and a few gigs to be confirmed, so keep your eyes peeled! 🙂
Stream “Onlyfans” below:
