Fresh off the release of her latest single, ‘Runaway,’ we caught up with LEA KEY to discuss the inspiration behind the track, the importance of embracing new beginnings, and bringing her immersive KEY MOMENTS event back to her hometown of Hamburg. From personal growth to creating meaningful connections through music, she reflects on the moments that continue to shape her journey.

WWD:Hi Lea! Where are you speaking with us from?

I’m speaking with you from Hamburg, Germany, where I was born and raised. It’s the city where my journey as an artist began. Hamburg shaped me both personally and creatively – it’s where I wrote my first songs and played my first shows. 

I came here to celebrate the release of my new song, “Runaway,” through a very special fourth edition of KEY MOMENTS in my hometown.

WWD: You recently released the single ‘Runaway.’ Can you tell us a bit about the track and the meaning behind it?

‘Runaway’ is about growth, freedom, and having the courage to step into a new chapter of your life. Sometimes we hold on to places, versions of ourselves, or situations that no longer fit who we’re becoming. The song is about listening to that voice that tells you to let go and start again.

I think everyone has experienced moments where they felt the need to break free and rediscover themselves, and that’s what ‘Runaway’ represents for me.

WWD: Why is the theme of freedom and new beginnings so important for you?

I think life is constantly asking us to evolve. Some of the biggest and most beautiful moments happen when we dare to leave our comfort zone and trust ourselves enough to take action. Moving to Amsterdam five years ago was a big turning point for me. I know I wouldn’t be where I am today without that chapter of my life.

Personally, I’ve experienced a lot of moments where I had to choose between staying where things felt safe or following a feeling that there was something bigger waiting for me. Freedom, to me, means having the courage to choose growth, even when it’s scary. 

WWD: You also held your KEY MOMENTS show in your hometown of Hamburg on the same day as ‘Runaway’ was released. How important is your home audience and was that deliberate timing with the release of ‘Runaway?’

Yes, it was completely intentional. I wanted the release of ‘Runaway’ to become a real-life experience. After celebrating three editions of KEY MOMENTS in Amsterdam, it was time to bring the show to my hometown because Hamburg has supported me from the beginning. 

There is something unique about sharing new music with people who have been part of your journey for so long and creating new memories together in the same room.

At every show, I invite people to write down their Key Moments on small cards and share them with me throughout the evening. So many people open up and share their stories, and those life experiences inspire my new songs. It creates a really special connection with the crowd every single time.

WWD: What makes Hamburg audiences so special to you? 

Hamburg audiences are incredibly open and genuine. People here really appreciate authenticity and emotional storytelling. 

I also love how international and creative the city is. There’s a real sense of community here, and you can feel that energy during live shows. It creates an atmosphere where people immerse themselves in the experience, and that’s what happened last week at KEY MOMENTS at The Cloud One Hotel in Speicherstadt. 

WWD: When you are not in the studio or traveling, how do you like to relax?

Working out, being outside near the water, or simply watching a sunset invites me to slow down and recharge creatively. I also love spending quality time with friends and family and having meaningful conversations.

Life isn’t perfect, but it’s filled with perfect moments.

WWD: That it is! Thanks for the chat 🙂 

‘Runaway’ is available here

Photo credit: niickuscha