The young talent is taking the region by storm with two new releases
By Culture Hub Middle East Staff
At just 17 years of age, Dubai-based, British-Indian singer Leah Depala is making waves in the music scene. Most recently the talent has dropped her new EP, Stages, with Universal Music MENA. Comprising two evocative tracks that reflect the different phases of a relationship, Stages marks a new chapter of Leah’s foray in the international music world.
“Everyone’s journey in music is unique, and I feel like my journey has been a huge learning experience,” enthuses the young singer-songwriter. “Over the years, after having released four singles and now an EP, Stages, my music style and preferences have changed dramatically, and I’m still trying to find the sound that best fits me. While this has been challenging, it’s been an essential part of the process.”

Above: Singer Leah Depala
The first song, Free Fall, is an ode to the elation felt during the honeymoon phase of a relationship, when one enters the realm of the unknown and risks vulnerability. The second song, Love Better, represents the final stage of a relationship, when two people have decided to split ways but still find themselves magnetically drawn back to each other.
“The inspiration for my music comes from a combination of personal experiences, as well as the experiences of people and things around me, such as TV shows or movies that I watch,” she expresses. “I do prefer to keep my lyrics as true to reality as possible, because I aim to evoke emotion from my listeners with the music I put out.”
While this is a new page in the young musician’s career, Leah actually began composing her own music at 12 years old and by 16, she had already released three singles. She’s also the recipient of the Emirates Woman of the Year Award in the Young Talent category in 2019.
“As I go on to university later this year, I plan to continue making music and remain as consistent as possible, as it acts as an escape from the real world for me. In the far future, I dream to be able to go on international tours and perform my original music live for thousands of people who resonate.”
Listen to Stages by Leah Depala here.