Noa Kirel Explains the Meaning Behind Her Latest Single ‘Please Don’t Suck’
Israeli pop sensation Noa Kirel is a massive star in her native country, and with the release of her English debut single "Please Don't Suck," we think she's destined to become a big deal here in the U.S., too.
The new track, out today, starts with the familiar jingle of The Chordettes' "Mr. Sandman" before evolving into something unique and quintessentially Noa, and the song's message, about asking life to hand you the good rather than the bad, is all too relatable. For us, it was love at first listen, and we got the chance to ask Noa all about how the track came to be in the interview below.
Sweety High: What was the songwriting process behind "Please Don't Suck"?
Noa Kirel: I got the hook and I immediately felt I had to have it and to finish it with my co-writers and The Monarch, who produced it. We actually had a transatlantic Zoom session when we were all quarantined in different places.
SH: What does the song mean to you? Was it inspired by a real person?
NK: "Please Don't Suck" is a very universal song. It can be about a relationship or hoping for better times. 2020 definitely sucked and I think we are all looking forward to a better 2021 and 2022.
(Image courtesy of Noa Kirel)
SH: How did you decide to sample "Mr. Sandman"? Why did that feel like the perfect thing to bring this song to life?
NK: It's such a gem! And I think that young audiences need to know some old beautiful songs. Samples are a great way to respect the past.
SH: In a relationship, what are the biggest red flags you DON'T want to see to ensure they "don't suck"?
NK: I would say if someone is disrespecting you—red flag. Not getting along with your parents—red flag. Bad kisser—red flag! Watch the video!
SH: What's your favorite lyric from the track?
NK: "Better not waste my time cuz boy I got an ego, my jealousy is lethal. Better not hurt my pride might be too late."
SH: How did the idea for the music video come about, and why was it the perfect way to represent the song? Do you have a favorite memory from the shoot?
NK: I think that music videos are the best way to share a song's vibe or story. I had an incredible connection with Jake Wilson (the director) the moment we met over Zoom. We brainstormed and felt like we wanted to do something that could be polished, humorous and fun at the same time. I wanted to work with Sean Bankhead forever and he flew in to choreograph the video—I feel blessed to work with all these amazing creatives. We also shot the video on my 20th birthday! The entire crew surprised me at the end with cake and balloons and it was the perfect way to celebrate with my first global video.
SH: Is there anything you'd like to add?
NK: Please don't suck!
Love discovering new music? Click HERE to read our interview with band The Warning about their song "Choke."