Lyves is the alias of Francesca Bergami. Her emotive lyrical themes and alternative route into performing have set her apart from most other artists and earned critical acclaim for her early releases
Lyves is the alias of Francesca Bergami. Her emotive lyrical themes and alternative route into performing have set her apart from most other artists and earned critical acclaim for her early releases.
Shying away from a career in music, fearing it was unattainable, Francesca went to Goldsmith’s to study psychology before embarking on a career as a support worker for young people in care and later a mental health advocate where she worked at a psychiatric hospitals. It was at this point – nine years ago – that Francesca realised there was something missing in her life. Her secret needed to become a full-blown creative endeavour. Francesca got her hands on a keyboard and embarked on the task of learning to play, she advertised for a band on Gumtree and started to perform live to an audience for the first time since she was thirteen. Citing influences as diverse as Enya, Tupac, Moby and Philip Glass, Francesca is deeply inspired by music that speaks to the quiet of one’s heart.
The world started to take notice when she publicised her first release ‘Visions’, which paved the way for her debut EP ‘Like Water’ released in January 2017. These early releases consistently earning her top positions in Hype Machine along with critical acclaim.
With a voice that can be both emotive and empowering at once, Francesca sings of loss, adaption, and survival. “That’s my aim, to be as honest and real as possible, my hope is that it speaks to people,” says Francesca. “I don’t want it to be about me. I want the music to speak for itself and possibly give something. That’s what fuels my passion”
Lyves is currently writing and recording her debut album.