IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Leon of Athens
There’s no doubt Leon of Athens is an artist you better start listening to. Leon of Athens, also known as Timoleon Veremis, is a singer-songwriter who was born in London, but was raised in Athens. He released his debut record, Global, on July 24, 2015 via Mimosa’s Dream. A little less than three years later, he put out his sophomore records, Xenos, on February 9, 2018, also via Mimosa’s Dream. Most recently, he released a remix of his newest single, “Communication” featuring Katerine Duska, done by Portugal. The Man, on April 13. Not only has he performed at a handful of venues all over the UK including Notting Hill Arts Club, he has shared the stage with artists such as City of the Sun. Just almost a year ago, he opened for Talos at Baby’s All Right.
Taking a pause from music, Leon kindly chatted about the process behind creating his newest single, artists currently on his own music radar, and his favorite superhero character.
Photo by Thanos Poulimenos
What’s the story behind your talent and passion for music?
Music has been an expressive outlet for me for as long as I can remember. I started writing and playing music with my first band Mimosa’s Dream in junior high school, and we’re still very close.
What was the first instrument (musical or non-musical) you started making music with?
Classical and acoustic guitar and that’s how I still write most of my songs. I always want the melodies to drive them.
Which song (released or unreleased) are you most proud of?
I think probably “Xenos.”
You released a new single, “Communication” featuring Katerine Duska on February 28. What was the process of writing, recording, and producing it?
I wrote it with Kat and David Sneddon in Corfu during my summer vacation. We make a great team. They are two of my favorite people to work with—we have great chemistry and it’s always effortless. We produced and recorded the song in London with Anu Pillai with whom we worked on my previous single “Anemos” as well, and I was extremely pleased with the outcome. It’s definitely the most pop I’ve gone before, and Anu was perfect for it. He understands super pop just as much as left field and he’s amazing with analog synths, so it was easy maintaining the balance I was looking for and creating an interesting blend of sound. I was also honored to have Portugal. The Man remix the track and basically reinvent the song. They are one of my favorite bands out there right now, and I couldn’t wait for you guys to hear it.
While on the road, what are some of your essential tour items?
I try to keep it as simple and minimal as possible. Just me, the guys, our instruments, and our suitcases. You don’t really need much, and the lighter the better when you’re constantly on the go.
What are you currently listening to?
Childish Gambino, Billie Eilish, Francis and the light, James Blake and Tove Styrke.
What’s your favorite food and/or restaurant back home in Athens?
In Athens, it’s Mavro Provato in the area of Pangrati.
If there were a pizza with the name “Leon of Athens,” what toppings would it feature?
Tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese and basil. Simple, I know, but fresh and tasty.
Who’s your favorite superhero character?
Spider-Man.
What’s a question you have wanted to get asked in an interview, and what’s the response to it?
What's next?
I’m recording a new EP, on 4/13, we released Portugal. The Man's remix for “Communication,” and I also have some cool US festivals—Shaky Knees and Bonnaroo planned for the fall.
Many thanks to Leon for taking the time and thought to respond to the questions, and to Sarah for coordinating!
Don’t miss any updates from Leon of Athens by following him on Twitter (@leonofathens) and Instagram (@leonofathens), and liking him on Facebook (/leonofathens)!