Leslie Grace Unveils New Single and Playlist for ‘Flow With Life’ Era
Leslie Grace has made her return to the music scene with the release of her vibrant new single, “Ayayay.” This marks the beginning of a bold new chapter for the 30-year-old Dominican American singer and actress, characterized by self-discovery and creative freedom. In an exclusive interview with Us Weekly, Grace shared, “I’ve been allowing myself to just flow with life a bit more.” She reflected on a time when she felt the need to control her artistic expression, stating, “For a long time, I tried to stay in control, to rationalize everything. But now I’m embracing love, emotions, and creativity in a much more open way.”
As Grace prepares to release her first full-length studio album in twelve years, she is drawing inspiration from her musical roots while also evolving her sound. The new work blends elements of R&B, tropical pop, and bilingual storytelling, showcasing her growth as an artist. In between rehearsals, studio sessions, and filming her next movie, Grace took the time to share a playlist that reflects her artistic journey, childhood memories, and emotional connections to music.
Defining Musical Influences
Grace’s playlist includes various tracks that have shaped her artistry. One standout is “Run to You” by Whitney Houston, which she describes as a source of inspiration. “Any Whitney song, really — I’m inspired just hearing her voice,” she said. The ease of Houston’s vocals resonates deeply with Grace, who admires how effortlessly the iconic singer conveyed her gift.
Another key track for Grace is “Strength, Courage & Wisdom” by India.Arie. While many artists may pump themselves up before a performance, Grace prefers to ground herself. “This song is so perfect — lyrically and rhythmically — to get me centered mentally,” she noted.
Reflecting on nostalgia, Grace named “In the Heights” from the musical of the same name as a song that evokes cherished summer memories. “When we shot In the Heights, that was the best summer of my life — no doubt,” she remarked. The film’s production coincided with a time before the COVID-19 pandemic, adding to its sentimental value.
Personal Connections to Music
Songs from her childhood also play a crucial role in Grace’s music journey. She fondly recalls “Luna” by Ana Gabriel, a favorite of her mother’s. “We’d clean the house every weekend, and Ana Gabriel was always playing,” Grace said, emphasizing the strong emotional ties to the song.
Grace also shared her affection for “I’m Not a Girl, Not Yet a Woman” by Britney Spears, which she described as her first concert experience. “Looking back, it’s kind of hilarious,” she reflected, recalling how she performed the song at karaoke as a child.
The playlist also features “Lifetime” by Maxwell, which Grace considers one of the most romantic songs. “Maxwell just gets it,” she expressed, highlighting the emotional depth of the track. Another poignant selection is “Still Feel It All” by Amaro, a multilingual artist whose music evokes strong emotions for Grace. “Every time I hear this one, I cry,” she admitted.
Finally, Grace pays homage to her Dominican roots with “La Bilirrubina” by Juan Luis Guerra. She stated, “You hear it, and it just makes you want to dance. That’s my Dominican blood right there.”
As Leslie Grace embarks on this exciting new phase of her career, her connection to music remains as strong as ever, blending personal history with a vibrant artistic vision. With “Ayayay” as a herald of what’s to come, fans can anticipate a rich and diverse album that captures the essence of her journey.
