Leigh-Anne tells us about launching a new era with ‘Been a Minute’ and shares BTS images from the music video

As Leigh-Anne returns with her new song ‘Been a Minute’, the former Little Mix star has told Rolling Stone UK about going independent to kick off a new era, as well as sharing behind the scenes photos from the track’s music video after she masterminded its creative vision.

“It’s been the most freeing experience watching my vision come to life,” she told us. “For the ‘Been a Minute’ music video I wanted to create a space where everyone feels like they can be themselves unapologetically.”

You can check out our full interview with Leigh-Anne below, as well as checking our exclusive BTS photos and watching the new video in full.

‘Been A Minute’ marks a bold new era for you. Tell us about the track…

For me, ‘Been a Minute’ was the perfect way to introduce this new era. It represents freedom, being fully in control and a sound that I feel needs to be heard and celebrated this summer. I didn’t lie when I said it’s the song of the summer, I dare you to try not to dance once you hear it. 

This is your first release as an independent artist – what’s the biggest lesson you’ve learnt so far?

To always trust my gut, I don’t think it’s failed me once. Always stay true to myself and what’s authentic to me. And just enjoy and savour every moment and every win no matter big or small.

You’ve overseen the whole creative direction for this music video. Tell us about the concept and what’s it been like fine tuning and creating your own vision?

It’s been the most freeing experience watching my vision come to life. For the ‘Been a Minute’ music video I wanted to create a space where everyone feels like they can be themselves unapologetically. It’s giving afterparty carnival vibes, everyone’s sweaty, there’s zero fucks given and we’re all living life. I wanted to capture the essence of the song, and to me that’s all about freedom and fun. I have an amazing team around me who just get it. Feeling grateful to have found my tribe. 

How was it working with director Femi Lade?

I think it was one of the easiest shoots I’ve ever done, it was such a smooth process. Femi absolutely smashed it, we really clicked and brought our vision to life. 

There’s a lot of strong choreography throughout the video – how did you decide on this movement?

I love a bit of choreo so had to give a little taste of what’s to come! I love how this movement feels a bit more loose and free. Literally like you and your girls have taken over the dance floor and living your best life! 

The music video captures the essence of carnival and has a very warm palette. How important was that to portray?

The warm palette and energy of the video were really intentional. I wanted it to feel rich, vibrant, and alive. It was about paying homage to heritage, not just in a visual sense but in spirit too. My culture is colourful, it’s expressive, it’s bold and I wanted all of that to bleed through. Now that I’m in control of my artistry, I can really bring those influences to the forefront unapologetically. This era is about embracing all parts of me, and I can’t wait to show more of what I’ve been working on. 

The video takes a turn towards the end as we see a doppelgänger dressed in red take your place. Who are they and what do they represent?

There’s a shift happening, and that moment at the end is a small glimpse into something bigger. I don’t want to say too much yet, but everything you’re seeing has a purpose. The story has only just started…you’ll have to wait and see how it all unfolds.

Are there any details in the video that only you would notice?

I had a day to learn the choreo! But I’m really hoping the fans don’t notice that!

What can fans expect in this new era of control and independence from you?

Everything done on my terms, taking more risks, worrying less about what people think and other people’s expectations of me. We’re coming to disrupt. No more miss nice girl…

CREDITS:
Creative Director – Leigh -Anne 
Co-Creative Director and Stylist – Natalie Westernoff 
Make Up Artist: Hila Karmand @hilakirmand
Hair Stylist: Molecia Seasay @momoshair
Nails: Stephanie Staunton @stephie_nails 
Photos: Lucy and Lydia @the.twins.shot.this