Q & A With Siri Neel

Tomorrow, the Danish pop singer/songwriter Siri Neel will drop her debut album, Drawn Like A Magnet. Coming to this point has been a long and challenging journey for Siri, and this is reflected in the upbeat and empowering mood of the record. She was so kind to answer a few questions ahead of the release.

When did you realize that you wanted to write songs and sing them? Who were your inspirations?

I discovered my ability to write songs later in life, thanks to the encouragement of a teacher at BIMM University. I had already completed the singing course, but she saw a potential in me that I hadn’t yet recognized. She suggested I apply for the songwriting program, giving me three months to write three songs for my audition—which, luckily, went very well. I began to feel a whole new dimension to singing, as I realized that I could project my own stories rather than conforming to other´s stories or musical styles. Through songwriting I began to sense that I could channel my emotions in a way that created a balance deep inside of me.

You went to the Institute of Music in Brighton, England. What did you expect from studying songwriting? Were your expectations met?

A defining moment was when I started at Brighton institute of Modern Music and met who was to become an inspiration and mentor to me – producer Mark Flannery who has worked with amazing artists such as Depeche Mode, Def leppard, Mutt Lange etc. He was the first in the music industry who truly believed in me and my potential. He has given me a lot of courage to vocally express myself which is something I have found very vulnerable to do so and very revealing to my inner emotions. The most memorable thing he told me was: Siri, when you sing, your voice is so authentic and says ’listen to me’. These words  were so  powerful for me, as I began to realize I could connect with others simply by being myself. My expectations were fully met, but more importantly, I grew personally from being around other musicians—I finally felt a true sense of belonging.

Speaking of Brighton – we are going there next Spring for the Great Escape. Is there anything we should not miss at the festival or in the city in general?

Brighton is the most beautiful, authentic, and diverse city I’ve ever known. The openness, warmth and happy energy you feel there are truly unique. Leaving was difficult because the atmosphere—the music, the people—brings out the best in you. You’ll feel welcome and have an amazing time. Maybe I’ll even see you there! Just don’t forget a raincoat—it may come in handy.

You lost your voice for many years due to an injury. How did you keep up hope of ever singing again?

Great question—it’s something I’ve thought deeply about. In many ways, it would have been easier to pursue a different path in life rather than spending six years trying to regain my singing voice. But I knew I’d be working against myself; I couldn’t escape it. Expressing myself through singing is a fundamental part of who I am, something I hadn’t fully realized until I was limited by it. That’s when I understood there was only one way forward. 

Pushing through those barriers took resilience, drive, and self-determination, but the best part is that now I get to do what I truly love—singing and writing songs. Creating this album has been a healing process, a powerful testament that something beautiful and meaningful can emerge even from hitting rock bottom. It shows that when you have the courage to face challenges, a new beginning can take shape—a journey toward freedom and authenticity. I genuinely hope my music can bring inspiration to anyone listening.

It took you time to be ready to release a very personal album with Drawn Like a Magnet. What do you wishlisteners get out of the record?

´Drawn like a Magnet` is a deeply personal album that represents my journey of self-liberation, both mentally and physically. For years, I struggled with losing my voice, which left me feeling trapped and unable to express myself or pursue my dreams. Mentally, I faced intense self doubt and a constant fear of failure. 

I'm incredibly proud of this album because it represents my refusal to be held back by fear, obstacles  or self-doubt - embracing vulnerability and strengths at the same time.  It’s my hope that this album will inspire others to find their inner strength and follow their own path, no matter where they are in life. 

You work with several collaborators on the new album. Did you approach them because you had a specific musical idea in mind?

Songwriting is such a personal process, and having people around who create that safe space, and allows me to be vulnerable makes all the difference to me. I have to admit, I also work with some incredibly patient people and I think all my collaborations have seen me cry when songwriting —LOL. True collaboration in songwriting goes deeper than just musical ideas; it’s about trust and shared vision, which brings out creativity and authenticity. That’s where the best work happens. I´m very proud of all my collaborations on this album. . 

After the album release on November 1, what is next for Siri Neel?

First, I’d like to thank you for giving me the opportunity to talk about my album and for providing a platform to share my music. I genuinely cherish and admire people who cares so much for music. 

As an independent artist, I cherish the creative freedom I have, allowing me to remain true to myself in every project. This journey has been incredibly exciting, filled with growth and exploration, and I’ve already written new songs that I can’t wait to share in the future. Who knows—maybe my next move will be New York 😄

Thank you, Siri, for the insights. We wish you the best for your album release, and hope to see you soon in New York, indeed.

Connect with Siri Neel here.