Alessia’s growth as an artist is evident on this record. Love & Hyperbole represents an important shift from her past work. “Sonically, it feels a little different. It feels like a step forward,” she says. “It’s more sophisticated, more live-sounding. I’ve always been inspired by music from the ’60s and ’70s, and I wanted to incorporate that energy into this album.” The result is a more grown-up sound that showcases her evolution as both an artist and a human. The album was crafted with so much authenticity that reflects her true self, and yet it also brings listeners into new, unexplored territories.

The album’s lead single, Dead Man, already has fans talking. The track represents a deeply personal experience, born out of Alessia’s reflections on past relationships. “It’s about holding on to a person who isn’t who you thought they were, and feeling alone in that,” she explains. “I wrote it toward the end of the album process, as I was reflecting on these experiences.” With its emotional depth and raw honesty, Dead Man sets the vibe for the entire album, which is a self-discovery, lovey type journey.

But it’s not just Alessia’s voice that stands out on this record; Love & Hyperbole also features an unexpected collaboration with the one and only, guitar legend, John Mayer. On the song Isn’t It Obvious, Mayer delivers an indescribable guitar solo—one of his longest ever recorded. “It wasn’t like an official feature, but it’s such a special moment,” Alessia says. “I reached out to him, and he was so supportive. He just came in and played the solo on the spot, and it was perfect.” The experience left Alessia in awe of Mayer’s musicianship and friendliness. He pulled up, locked in, and got to work. 

The timing of Love & Hyperbole’s release couldn’t be more fitting. With Valentine’s Day serving as its launch date, the album arrives at a time when love is at the forefront of everyone’s minds. “It just felt right,” Alessia admits. “Valentine’s Day is all about love, and this album covers love in so many different ways—romantic love, self-love, the whole spectrum.” What started as an October release grew into something more serendipitous, and now the album will land on the world stage at a time when its message is most desired.

Alessia’s journey to this point has been one of massive growth, both as an artist and as a person. “I feel like I’ve stayed the same in a lot of ways, but in other ways, I’m a completely different person,” she reflects. “I’ve let go of a lot of fears, shyness, and anxiety. I’m more free now, more at peace with myself.” It’s this newfound freedom that has allowed her to fully embrace her artistry, sharing her innermost thoughts and emotions with the world. But it hasn’t always been easy. “There’s a vulnerability in sharing personal experiences, but I’ve learned to write songs in a way that’s both honest and protective of my privacy. It’s about striking a balance.”

The album’s creation process was another pivotal moment for Alessia. “It took three years to make, which is a long time for me. But I got to travel more than I ever have before—Nashville, England, Miami, LA, and Toronto,” she explains. “I was able to get creative in a new way, and I wasn’t afraid to just improvise and have fun with it.” The time she spent in different places and working with a variety of people contributed to an album that feels both spontaneous and thoughtfully crafted.

Songwriting has become an organic process for Alessia. “It’s become second nature to me now,” she says, referring to her ability to blend poetry and music. “In the beginning, it was challenging to combine the two, but now it’s just what I do. It’s in my body now. It’s fun to stretch an emotion and fit it into a song.”

Despite her massive success and billions of streams, Alessia remains grounded. “I don’t feel pressured to innovate for the sake of it. I’m stubborn enough to stay true to myself,” she says. “I know why I’m here—I’m here because of who I am. I don’t need to change to prove anything to anyone.” That authenticity is what has endeared her to fans worldwide, and it’s what will continue to drive her forward.

As the world continues to change, Alessia’s music will remain a constant source of comfort and connection. “I think the last few years have definitely shaped my outlook on life and my music,” she says. “I’m still trying to process everything that’s happened. But the one thing I know is that I want to keep growing, keep evolving, and keep making music that’s honest.”

Looking ahead, Alessia is gearing up for her next chapter. Love & Hyperbole is just the beginning. “I’m already thinking about the next steps, new music, and the future. This feels like the start of something new,” she shares. “I’m really excited for what’s to come.”

With a tour on the horizon and a new album about to drop, Alessia Cara’s journey is far from over. Love & Hyperbole is a bold and beautiful declaration of who she is today, and it’s only a glimpse of what she has yet to share with the world.

Photographer: Alex Loucas