People: Lisa Kowalski

From busking on the streets of Paisley to headlining at King Tut’s in Glasgow, teenage singer-songwriter Lisa Kowalski has come a long way in a short space of time. She tells us more about her burgeoning career.

You turned 18 this year. When did you start writing songs?

When I was 13. I started recording when I was 16, and released my first EP when I was 17. When I was 11, I got a guitar for Christmas, but I never really used it for a long time. I didn’t know where to start, but one day in music class I went up to my teacher and said, “Please help me!” He pointed me towards a website that showed you how to play basic chords. I basically just taught myself from there.

Career highlights so far?

Headlining King Tut’s on my eighteenth birthday was definitely one of them. That was cool, and such a nice way to celebrate, with lots of love. I’ve also played at St Mirren. Obviously people are there for football, not to hear me sing, but they’re always so nice and supportive. 

What inspires you to write?

All my songs are based on true stories, my thoughts, feelings and opinions. They’re always based on something I’m passionate about. Real life inspires me, as do other songwriters like Taylor Swift and Bruce Springsteen.

Paisley obviously means a lot to you, so much so that you wrote a song, Hearts of Gold, in tribute to the town.

My first public performances were busking in Paisley, and if it wasn’t for that I probably wouldn’t be where I am now. I really owe a lot to Paisley. 

The video for Hearts of Gold depicts you dancing in the streets with various Paisley residents. How did that come about?

We invited people to come down and take part. It was an uplifting thing to show how amazing Paisley is after the bad result of the 2021 campaign.

When can we expect another EP?

Either later this year or early next year. I’ll promote that next year, play more gigs, maybe some festivals. I just want to get more music out there and build an audience, not only for next year, but for all the years afterwards.

You’re in this for the long haul?

Oh yeah, for sure! 

Q&A

Favourite musical artist? Bruce Springsteen

What song do you wish you’d written? Travelling Song by Ryn Weaver

First album you ever bought? Fearless by Taylor Swift

Best gig you’ve seen? Kendrick Lamar at Glasgow Green in 2018

Keep up to date with Lisa on Facebook.