- Words Charlotte Gornall
TikTok LIVE's Breakthrough Star Fiaa Hamilton talks her latest single 'Boy Like You', her creative process and the importance of collaboration.
As Fiaa Hamilton’s rise to pop stardom continues to captivate audiences, the alt-pop singer-songwriter is redefining what it means to be a modern storyteller. With the release of her latest single ‘Boy Like You’, she has taken a bold leap into the darker side of pop, blending foreboding synths, haunting vocals, and a twist of gothic elegance that perfectly complements the track’s horror-themed music video. ‘Boy Like You’ dives deep into the aftermath of a toxic relationship, showcasing Fiaa’s knack for turning personal pain into art. From her sweetly sinister lyrics to the chilling visuals, the single marks a thrilling evolution in her sound and storytelling.
It’s been an exciting journey for Fiaa, who first captured the public’s attention as the winner of TikTok LIVE’s Breakthrough Star Award. Her engaging presence on the platform has made her a standout, amassing fans who connect with her raw, authentic voice and cinematic approach to pop music. But while TikTok may have launched her career, her determination and creative vision continue to propel her forward. A self-taught artist who grew up in the foster care system, Fiaa has always used music as a form of expression and escape—and now, she’s sharing that journey with the world.
Here, she opens up about her latest project, the creative process behind her haunting music video, and the importance of collaboration in bringing her vision to life. Get to know the artist behind ‘Boy Like You’ and find out what’s next for this rising star.
What inspired you to start making music?
I started writing music when I was 8, I was a carer for my mum and it made her happy so we would write together. I absolutely love writing music, it’s always been my favourite way to communicate how I feel and what I have been through.
As the winner of TikTok LIVE’s Breakthrough Star Award, how did you get into sharing your music on TikTok?
I honestly have no idea how it happened but one day I was live on TikTok and I started having a mini listening party with my angels, they had never heard any of my tracks and they couldn’t believe I had kept them all secret. After that, every week I’d show them a new song, next thing you know, I started to release the songs, which I had previously held back due to self-confidence.
The video for your single ‘Boy Like You’ has got a horror aspect to it, what was the process behind making this and why did you choose horror?
Because the song highlights the horror aspects of my life; it’s about a relationship I was in. He cheated on me, got me into debt and played me like a toy; it made me incredibly ill. I truly hit the scariest time of my life and I wanted the listener to see that dark side of me. We have all been there, we can all go there! On the edge of madness.
What is the story behind ‘Boy Like You’?
It’s about that ex-boyfriend who makes you crazy, but you can relate it anything. We all need to lose ourselves to find ourselves and this song is where I close the door to the darkness of my life and slowly begin to heal. But with healing, you do have to face your demons, so be prepared for more crazy dark moments!
How does collaboration fit into your creative process?
I always collaborate, I’m a social butterfly! I love bouncing off of others – that’s when the best songs are made. I sometimes sit and write alone and then share what I make with the creatives I work with.
What do you hope listeners take away from your music?
Just a story, a journey, something to make them feel like they belong and what they are feeling is normal and what they are going through will get better.
If you could collaborate with one artist, living or dead, who would it be?
Mark Ronson and Lady Gaga at the same time. Sorry, I gave you 2! I just feel we would create something deep and adventurous.
You have been described as a ‘storytelling artist’ before, can you explain the importance of storytelling in your work?
I’m a Gemini, the star sign of communication, and my whole life has been about telling a story and I have a big one to tell! The lyrics and meaning behind my songs have to be totally aligned with my soul.
What’s been Fiaa Hamilton’s favourite track this year that they haven’t made themselves?
What is next for you?
Something huge, like the peak of my career to date, but I’m not allowed to say! My live streams will be based around what I’m about to do for the next two months, so keep watching and you’ll find out!