Buckwild popstar: Betty Who on her sophomore album

Which are your favourite tracks from the album, and why?

After spending so much time with the album, that really does feel like asking which child is my favourite, but right now since it's fresh, “Mama Say” is definitely up there. It's so fun to perform and every time we do it live, the crowd goes nuts on the drop.

Which of the singles so far do you feel best represents the album as a whole?

I'm not sure if any single represents an album entirely. I guess I would say “Some Kinda Wonderful” because it's unpredictable and that's what I felt like when I was making the album.

How has the process behind the creation of this album differed from that of your debut?

The first album was a bunch of old songs thrown together from my EPs, plus a few new songs. It definitely wasn't as involving or deeply trying as making this album was. I think people call it the sophomore blues - you've made your first record... now what?

Fundamentally the entire experience of putting this album out has been different. I think I'm much more self-conscious because there's a lot more of me in this one.

Can you describe the progression in your sound between the two albums?

I think this new album is significantly more pop sounding, if not for any other reason than the vocal production. I decided very early on in making the new album that I wanted people to know that I was a singer, not just a vibe tech. I think that decision has influenced the sound of the album a lot.

What's the story behind the name The Valley?

I hadn't named the record and it was almost finished but I knew I wanted to write an intro to the album still. So one day I locked myself in my studio and sat for like eight hours, just tying a bunch of stuff out until "The Valley" was born. After I finished I was so sure I was naming the record after it, it was a no brainer. It meant so much to me: the place I'd made most of the record, the state of my emotions while making it. It felt really perfect.

What messages do you hope fans will take from the songs on this album?

I hope there are a few songs they can dance to and sort of switch off to, but also a few they can turn on the water works to as well. You know I love a good tear-jerker!

For anyone who hasn't listened to you before, why should they check out The Valley?

If you are a sucker for pop music, then we are one and the same. I made an entire album based on that love.

How would you describe Betty Who in 5 words?

Energetic sunshine complicated fairy woman

How would you describe The Valley in 5 words?

Hopeful romantic buckwild pop jams