Colin 
Emilie Leslie is preparing to release ‘Higher’, a dance-pop single shaped by attraction, momentum, and the rush that comes with giving yourself over to a new connection. The track builds on her growing interest in upbeat pop while keeping her songwriting grounded in real experiences rather than broad ideas.
Originally from Glasgow and now based in Liverpool, Emilie writes directly from moments in her own life. That approach runs clearly through ‘Higher’, which sits on the brighter side of her catalogue. The song centres on the emotional lift that comes from falling into something uncertain, where excitement outweighs caution and late nights blur into early mornings. Because of that, the track feels specific and personal rather than abstract.
Musically, ‘Higher’ moves with purpose. Bright synth lines and a tight rhythm drive the song forward, while the chorus arrives quickly and stays front and centre. The production keeps the pace steady and uncluttered, which mirrors the feeling at the heart of the song. As a result, the track feels made for movement, whether you are dancing at home or replaying it on repeat.
The lyrics focus on that suspended moment where everyday concerns fade into the background. Emilie avoids over-explaining the situation, choosing instead to capture the feeling itself. That restraint allows listeners to bring their own experiences into the song, which helps it connect without forcing a single storyline.
Writing from experience and finding direction
‘Higher’ was written during a period when Emilie was navigating a situationship that brought both excitement and emotional tension. That real-life context feeds directly into the song’s sense of lift and urgency. Instead of looking back with distance or regret, the track stays inside the moment, capturing the rush before consequences enter the picture.
The song was recorded while Emilie was studying for her master’s degree at Liverpool Media Academy, using her university studio as a creative base. That setting allowed her to stay closely involved in shaping the final sound while developing her skills as both a writer and performer. The result is a track that sounds clean and confident without feeling detached from its origin.
Live performance has played a central role in Emilie’s development. She has performed across the UK, including touring with HMV, playing King Tuts, and appearing as a guest performer at the Hey Dude x Lewis Capaldi launch night in Glasgow. That experience shows in ‘Higher’, which feels structured for energy and audience response rather than quiet reflection.
While Emilie also releases ballads, ‘Higher’ marks her second release rooted in dance-pop. It sharpens that side of her sound and suggests a clearer sense of direction. The track feels deliberate and focused, pointing toward a space where movement and personal storytelling meet comfortably.
Review
Emilie Leslie sounds confident and at ease on ‘Higher’. The song moves straight to its hook and keeps its focus there, which makes repeat listens feel natural rather than forced. The production supports the vocal without crowding it, allowing the emotion of the song to stay clear.
There is a strong sense of control throughout the track – for something bedroom produced it’s remarkably well defined. Emilie knows the feeling she wants to capture and commits to it fully. As a result, ‘Higher’ stands out as one of her most assured releases so far and makes a convincing case for her dance-pop material moving forward.
You will be able to pre-save Higher ahead of its release on 13th February and you can follow Emilie Leslie on Instagram.
Phil Wolvin