The Black Editorial ™
The Black Editorial ™
The Raw. The Rebellious. The Real Lydia Lutudi.
April 2025
Inspired by Betty Davis, Lydia places her own spin as she released her latest EP Psychedelic Millennial.
Building From the US, Ghana & the UK
Lydia Lutudi is a rock artist blending psychedelic, alternative, and classic influences, visual artist, and performer living in London. Her music is raw, electric, and deeply spiritual, blending ‘70s-inspired sounds with the untamed energy of rebellion and freedom. Her artistry isn’t just about sound; it's about healing, breaking barriers, and awakening something primal in her audience.
Just releasing her debut EP, Psychedelic Millennial, independently, is deeply personal to her. Writing and co-producing her songs alongside Producer Alex McGowan, she sees storytelling through music as more than just performance. It’s about owning her narrative, refining her craft, and pushing herself as an artist. Her sound is shaped by the worlds she has moved through: through her time living in Ghana, to her roots in North Carolina, and years in the UK. Each place, each culture, and each reality has exposed her to different sonic dimensions. Weaving those influences into her music-whether it’s the raw grit of Southern blues, the rhythmic spirituality of Africa, or the underground alternative scene in London.
Beyond music, she is relaunching The I Love Me Project, a community interest company founded nearly a decade ago that delivers self-love-focused creative workshops and events, including inclusive fashion shows, empowerment parties, and artistic self-discovery sessions. She believes self-love is the foundation of confidence and success, but in today’s world, it’s often neglected or damaged. Through this project, she’s making self-love both fun and practical, using creativity to help people embrace their individuality and power. Her past work has been featured on BBC, ITV, and international media outlets in Zimbabwe and the USA. Through workshops and events, she has reached over 2,500 people.
The Artistic Journey & Transition
Your music and artistry lives at the crossroads of Jimi Hendrix’s Black Rock & Roll legacy and the broader Black diaspora. How did you first discover this space, and what drew you into it?
“I didn't really have much of a good singing voice until my late teens singing R&B, Soul, and Pop, but inside I always felt I had more to say with my voice. I was going through some life experiences that were soul destroying and caused a lot of restriction in my life leaving me full of rage that I suppressed. It wasn’t until I attended a black history workshop when I was 19 and learned how pretty much all music genres today were influenced by the Indigenous/Black diaspora; this blew my mind. I felt empowered and curious to find what else we created, excited to learn something positive opposed to the typical slavery/civil rights history we were drowned with as a children.
That’s when I spent hours researching and watching videos of Jimi Hendrix, Tina Turner, Betty Davis, Muddy Waters and so many more. Jimi Hendrix spoke to my soul in a way I can't explain. After watching him perform on YouTube I decided that I was going to be a rock artist. I could understand exactly what he was saying through his guitar, the freedom on his face and body felt familiar and it empowered me. You don't see many artists like that today and that was what made me commit to being authentic and free even when it makes me uncomfortable.”
How has moving to London impacted your artistry?
“It’s been liberating. Leicester grounded me, but London electrified me. The city’s chaos, ambition, and sheer creative energy has pushed me to embrace my presence; being seen and stepping into my power as an artist. Opportunities feel endless here and for the first time I feel like there’s actually an audience out there for me. It's making me more disciplined and believe in myself. I don't have too much time to worry and doubt as time moves so much faster here.”
How has London reshaped your sound?
“What's funny is I was still living in Leicester when most of my debut EP was recorded and produced. I recently found out that the studio I recorded in (Space Eko East Recording studio in Forest Gate) was just a block away from where Jimi Hendrix wrote his hit track ‘Purple Haze’! He follows me everywhere. So in a way I'd say my sound initially wasn’t influenced directly by London but at the same time traveling and recording in London was exciting and something I looked forward to. My live performances however have been influenced and caused me to lean deeper into my rebellious essence. Being in a space where everything is moving so fast has given my artistry an urgency; it’s no longer just about sound, it’s about impact.”
Embodying rock ‘n’ roll defiance and untamed femininity, a fusion of psychedelic nostalgia and futuristic self-expression.
Lydia Lutudi electrifies the stage, channeling the raw spirit of rock ‘n’ roll as she performs in Glastonbury as a guest lead vocal for the Tina Turner tribute.
Moving from Leicester to London is a significant shift, especially for an artist breaking onto the scene, what has this transition unlocked for you creatively and personally?
“Leicester gave me a foundation, but it also felt like a cage for my vision. I had so many ideas, but the music scene was quiet, and I struggled to find spaces that felt like home for my sound. It was hard to connect with like-minded artists or even an audience that truly engaged with what I was doing. My dreams felt like they were shrinking there.
Moving to London changed everything. I’ve gone from living in a small city where opportunities felt scarce to passing multiple stadiums on my daily commute, constantly reminding me of where I want to be. I see people everywhere hustling, chasing their dreams, heading to gigs, living boldly. There’s so much movement, so much life in the pursuit of something bigger. It’s made me want to dream even bigger too. My goal is to sell out stadiums, and being in this environment has shown me that it’s not just possible—it’s inevitable if I keep pushing. London has reignited my vision, my ambition, and my belief that I belong on the biggest stages. It’s been a challenge however to balance health, work and the hustle but I feel alive and blessed to be able to go after a dream.”
The energy of London’s music scene is electric and ever-changing, when immersing yourself in this space how has it reshaped your sound and artistic vision?
“It's made me think about what sounds I'd like to experiment with and work with in my next releases. I love all types of music and being experimental. Rock is at the core but I’m certainly not one that can be boxed in a cage, I’ve been told many times I’m very versatile and living in London has inspired me to explore that in my next project. Vision wise it was a catalyst in making me want to relaunch The I Love Me Project as I get to be creative, support other artists and create opportunities and platforms for them as well as myself. I see a gap in that market in London and am excited to embark on this next.”
Lydia’s newest EP, Psychedelic Millennial.
Psychedelic Millennial & Artistic Identity
Psychedelic Millennial is such a bold debut—both in name and in sound. What does this project represent for you, and the world you were trying to build for yourself and others?
“It’s a reclamation, a rebellion, and a revolution. This project is about creating something different, something that reflects the world we’re living in now. I was inspired by Nina Simone’s belief that “It’s an artist’s duty to reflect the times.,” and it made me ask: What is the millennial story?
We’re a generation navigating chaos, self-discovery, and reinvention, and I want my music to capture that. I want it to feel like a psychedelic-something that opens minds, expands hearts, and offers a sense of freedom. Something electric, raw, spiritual, and fun. A space where people can lose themselves and find themselves all at once. It’s about breaking the mold, embracing the electric, the raw, the spiritual.”
Psychedelia, ties deeply to Black artistry through Psychedelic Soul and Funk, but has often been overshadowed by a whitewashed narrative. How does your work reclaim and reimagine this space, honoring its roots while pushing it forward for a new generation?
“The industry erased the legacy of Black rock pioneers, but their spirits still linger. My work calls them back. Through my sound, visuals, and performances, I honor the past while pushing forward-blending Rock, Funk, and Afro-futurism to create something that feels both ancestral and ahead of its time.
I’ve spent years not just studying their music, but diving into their lives—their struggles, their families, their economic realities, their political views, and their flaws. Understanding them as full, complex humans made me realize how deeply connected we are. So many of the battles they fought-against erasure, exploitation, and resistance to change are still happening today. It made me ask: How can we push forward? How do we break these cycles for good?
Many of these artists weren’t just pioneers in music; they were revolutionaries. They pushed boundaries in politics, culture, and consciousness, shifting power back to the people-mind, body, and soul. That kind of transformation is a threat to oppressive systems, which is why so many were silenced or erased.
That’s why The I Love Me Project is so important. It allows me to share my message beyond music, beyond entertainment and showmanship, and into something tangible-real self-love, empowerment, and change. This work is deep, vulnerable, and at times terrifying, but it’s also the most freeing thing I’ve ever done.”
Lydia Lutudi is a bold visual statement of power, rebellion, and sensuality.
Your visuals, sound, and presence all exude a sense of rebellion and reinvention. When did this imagery start, and how has it evolved over the years?
“I’m all about watching performances from any and every kind of artist-whether it’s the Nicholas Brothers' insane moves, Marilyn Monroe’s iconic charm, Ike and Tina Turner live shows, Beyoncé, Michael Jackson’s electrifying videos, or even those bold Blaxploitation movies. What did they all have in common? Bright pops of color and that they are raw, with vibrant energy. That’s what I’m drawn to! I’ve always loved that sexy, classy aesthetic, especially since I was more modest growing up and a little shy to fully embrace my body. Fashion and style are so wildly diverse, so I had to push myself to dive in and really explore. Jimi Hendrix is a huge style icon for me, he had this amazing way of thrifting unique pieces to create his own vibe, and I totally vibe with that. I do the same thing, hunting for those one-of-a-kind items that make my style pop.
I’ve had so many people tell me my hair looks “unkempt” or too wild and that I should try something sleeker, but then I get so many compliments about my big, bold curls and how people are inspired to try something different because of me. That’s the beauty of it all! It’s about embracing what’s uniquely mine - bold lipstick, wild hair, and owning it unapologetically. That’s my rebellion. My visuals have evolved into something that's so me - an extension of my inspirations, but now it’s got my own twist. From the fierce costumes my sister, Alma Jean, designs to the cinematic visuals in my music videos, every single creative risk I take just adds another layer to my artistry. Alma has been a huge part of this journey, creating bespoke, one-of-a-kind pieces that perfectly match my vision. She’s not just my designer - she’s with me behind the scenes, helping to shape my concepts and visuals. I lean on her a lot because we share similar interests, life experiences, and artistic visions. I’m beyond blessed to have her create clothes that truly reflect who I am, and to have her by my side in this creative process.
My love for style also comes from my roots. Growing up with an indigenous mother from the South who loves to dress up, do her makeup, and embrace beauty in all forms, and a Congolese father who wore a suit everywhere and took us to countless Congolese weddings, parties, and even thrifting, has been a huge influence on my style. My parents are the ultimate cool kids, and their love for fashion and self-expression shaped me in ways I can’t even describe. They made me feel that style is not just about clothes it’s a way to tell your story, and I carry that with me every day. One of my proudest moments? Conceptualizing and starring in my own music video where I even learned to ride a horse and do my own stunts. Now that’s next - level!”
Breaking Barriers & Industry Impact
As a woman in the Rock and Alternative music space, have you faced resistance or challenges in being fully embraced and how do you push past those barriers?
“Absolutely. The industry overlooks Black women’s founding position in Rock and always wants us to do R&B / Hip Hop / Soul. I push past this by forcing myself to network, even when I feel like I'm getting funny looks or resistance. I always introduce myself as a Rock artist, producer, and businesswoman to affirm who I am and make it clear that I’m here to stay. There can be skepticism, but I know there's no denying my presence. It's also a challenge when you're seen as a sex symbol before an artist or businesswoman, or when having sensitivity, kindness, and empathy is seen as a weakness. I push past that by constantly putting myself out there, but when it gets overwhelming, I take a step back for my mental health. I’ve learned to understand that it’s part of the journey, and even though it can feel tough at times, I know it will all work out for my greater good. Things always have a way of falling into place when I stay true to who I am.”
Your presence in the industry is making waves, how do you balance the shock wave you have made thus far and your personal lifestyle?
“I’m still learning. I love cooking my own meals, spending time with my family, and staying grounded through exercises and talking to my mom, who always reminds me to stay grateful and appreciate the journey. That balance is key for me honoring my ambition while staying connected to what keeps me whole. The truth is, I’m overwhelmed by the response so far. When people send fan art or tell me that my music has touched them, that’s when I feel most at peace, and it truly keeps me grounded. It’s those moments that make everything feel worth it and remind me to stay rooted.”
With voluminous curls framing Lydia’s face like a halo of unapologetic energy, garments match her aesthetic where punk-meets-glam.
Looking Forward: The Future of Lydia Lutudi
If you could curate your dream sonic world think festivals, collaborations, and artistic direction what would it look and feel like?
“It would be immersive, multi-dimensional, and unapologetically electric, a festival that’s part Rock show, part art installation, part spiritual awakening. I’d create a space where people don’t just listen to the music they feel it, see it, live it. Think grand, psychedelic visuals, live painting, and performances that blur the line between reality and dreamscape. There would be healthy food fueling the body, and everyone would leave with more knowledge, freedom of the mind, new skills, new friends, big smiles, and a true sense of community. It’s all about uplifting and connecting people in the most vibrant and transformative way possible.”
Five years from now, when someone hears the name Lydia Lutudi, what do you want them to associate it with?
“Freedom. A movement. I don’t just want to be an artist; I want to be a force. A pioneer in the resurgence of Indigenous rockstars, the resurgence of live music standards, raw singing, and showmanship. A performer who leaves people with a piece of her. A leader in self-love-focused creativity-whether through music, fashion, or empowering events. When people hear my name, I want them to think of freedom, authenticity, art, sensuality, fun, raw, and real energy. It’s about electrifying performances that redefine what it means to be a headliner, pushing boundaries, being unapologetically myself, and inspiring others to do the same.”
Lydia Lutudi
In this story: Photographer, (Portraits) Lovell Cook; Photographer, (Stage Performance) Ben Williams.
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