Imogen Heap discussed her career and views on AI in music during an interview. She reflected on her experiences with her album Speak For Yourself, collaborations, and her unique song The Listening Chair. The article was published on 2025-10-03.
Career beginnings and challenges
Imogen Heap created, advertised, and marketed her album Speak For Yourself almost entirely solo. She gained recognition after her songs were featured in The OC and on the radio. Heap remortgaged her flat in Waterloo, which she bought for £120,000, to finance the album. She spent four years working on an album with the electronic duo Frou Frou, but it never recouped.
Heap met Jeff Beck at a songwriting camp when she was 19. She sang on his record, Nadia, and performed shows with him. Heap described Beck as a sweet man and appreciated the humility of artists from that generation.
Innovative music projects
The Listening Chair is an autobiographical song that updates every seven years. Heap asked audiences for song ideas, receiving varied responses based on their ages. She plans to release a final piece titled I Am, reflecting on her current identity.
Heap created The Happy Song for Cow & Gate, collaborating with scientists and 50 babies to develop music that would cheer them up. Her daughter Scout contributed to some melodies. The song is also calming for stressed-out parents.
After 11 years since her last proper album, Heap has been involved in various projects, including the Harry Potter album and an Audible podcast. She expressed excitement about creating music in real time rather than adhering to traditional song structures.
Perspectives on AI and audience engagement
Heap’s ambition to use AI in live performances continues. She views AI as a collaborator that can enhance her music by identifying natural rhythms and sounds. Heap believes AI could help humanity navigate current challenges, stating, “we’re making such a horrendous job of existing.”
Heap is not possessive over her tracks and appreciates when others sample her music. She mentioned Jason Derulo sampling her song Hide and Seek, which contributed to her financial stability.
