When did you first start singing and performing?

I was born in Finland, in a small lake town near Helsinki and since I was really young I’ve always had a drive to sing and perform. I used to perform songs to my family and also sang in local rock band.

So what brought you to the UK?

Well, I realized that music was my calling and what I wanted to do. As there really isn’t a music industry to speak of in Finland, the UK seemed like the best place to go. So I moved to London in 2004 and began working with producers and songwriters here.

What happened next?

The first song I wrote was called “I Get Up”. I guess it was quite an angry, sort of raging rock song.

What’s it about?

It was about a young woman who had taken the plunge and decided to change her life around and do exactly what she wanted to do - and not give a damn about what other people think! I guess I can be like that sometimes and I think that side of me comes out in my lyrics and also in live sets. I don’t just want people to go “Oh, that’s a nice song”, I want people to remember it and be affected by it in some way.

I think they will, especially because quite a lot of the vocals are either quite fierce or quite quirky. What singers have inspired you?

When I was growing up I loved people like Madonna, Belinda Carlisle, Cher, Cyndi Lauper..80’s girl power!

…They’re all quite dominant women.

Yeah, absolutely. I really liked their attitude and how they came across as independent, strong-minded artists. Powerful and sexy. When I was young I really connected with all of those things about them. They seemed like super-vixens.

And nowadays?

I still really respect Madonna. She’s 50 and look, she’s got it! I think Gwen Stefani’s got hot swagger and I’ve always loved Alanis Morissette’s energy – she just doesn’t care what people think about her! “You Oughta Know” is so brilliant! When I started writing and recording songs I was just naturally influenced by the connection I felt with them (artists), so in that respect I’ve always been focused and clear about what kind of music I want to make.

And how does that come across in your songs?

Well, “Break the Chain” for example is quite dark and powerful, but it’s a passionate song too. Lot of the stuff I make is quite energetic because my music is aimed for dance floors. I think lyrical substance is really important so I focus on that side a lot when I create new ideas.

Sonja Holly is currently making new material with her team.

This smashing pop, electro invention is fresh and clean due to take over, so watch this space!!

By Beth Lees