A COVENTRY College student who hopes to become a professional singer-songwriter is launching her first ever single on the national airwaves.
Unique James, from Holbrooks, will see her song – called Lockdown Love – released on Radio 1Xtra, as well as on BBC Music Introducing during June.
The single – a mixture of RnB and pop and also featuring Leamington rapper C2 – was written by the 19-year-old during the latest lockdown, and explores the impact of lockdown on relationships and mental health.
Unique, who studies Travel and Tourism, said: “I have always wanted to become a singer-songwriter, and this single is my first big step towards trying to achieve that goal.
“The song itself was easy to write – as it is based on my own personal experiences – and I can’t wait for everyone to be able to hear it.
“Lockdown has given me a lot of time to not just reflect, but to also dedicate some time to creating a single that carves out my own identity as an artist, and shows off my range of singing ability.
“While my dream is to be a professional singer-songwriter I also know that I have to have a plan B in case things don’t go according to plan.
“Travel is another passion of mine, and being able to study towards a qualification in this sector at Coventry College means I have another career path to fall back on, and the tutors have been really supportive.”
Lockdown Love’s video has a romantic feel about it after being shot on the scenic grounds of Coombe Abbey and in Coombe Abbey Park, while the single itself was recorded at the premises of FRIDAYS – a community project for young people in the city.
Janine Sansom, Unique’s tutor at Coventry College, is tipping her to go far.
She said: “Unique stood out as a talented character from the start of the course, and she is a fantastic role model for other students.
“If her application and hard working attitude is anything to go by, then I would not be surprised to see her making the big time in the near future.”
Lockdown Love can be heard on Spotify later next month.