2025 Competition Entry:

Troubled Girl by Ama Lia

Genre

Folk

Artist

Co-writer(s)

yes

Performer(s)

Amalia – vocals
Michael Bailey – bass
Richard Bailey – drums
Tim Cansfield -guitar
Chicco Alotta – keys
Tony Maronie – percussion
Paul Silver – saxophone
Gavin Broom – trumpet
Tom White – trombone

Description

A childhood best friend who as a teenager was devoted to her family becomes the glue caring for a poorly father who passes, a workaholic mother who later passes years and unruly dependant brother. Her misplaced youth leads to an adulthood with low self worth, unsavoury sexual liaisons, unrequited love, addiction, depression, suicidal attempts and despair.

Bio

A singer-songwriter with a sound of raw funk and old soul.

Australian born and London based Ama Lia has steadily etched a sterling reputation for herself performing for the likes of royalty and A-list alike. With a 20-year singing career her undeniable stage presence and distinct vocals have lit up the UK and European music scene. Having played in London venues as Jazz Cafe and Koko in Camden, Club 606 and Pizza Express, and The Verdict Brighton.

Lead and backing vocal duties have featured on releases from a wide ensemble of established music acts crossing genres from soul, funk, pop, rock, Latin and House music. Whilst tours and travels have seen her sing in multiple languages including Greek, Spanish and Portuguese.

Her turning point was a royal invitation to perform for HRH Prince William at Windsor Castle. Further credits followed with support slots for global artists as Lionel Richie, Beyonce, John Legend, Chris Brown and UB40.

Radio and TV credits include BBC1, Ras Kwame Show, GMTV and Tommy Hilfiger Sessions along with Glastonbury, V Festivals, Beach break, Secret Garden, 02 Wireless and Cannes.

Lyrics

Troubled girl addicted
To thrills of addiction
Saving troubled souls of the night

Lost without a purpose
Desires still unsurfaced
Requires a little work to reach higher heights

Well it’s not love but blinding lights
Turn a corner, change your life
Save yourself, save your time
Regret won’t satisfy

Troubled girl in a troubled world
Save yourself
Troubled girl in a troubled world
Save your soul

Troubled girl misguided
Burdened and divided
Living all her life for the pride
Heavy on her shoulders
Looking out for her elders
What a world to carry for a child

Well it’s not love but blinding lights
Turn a corner, change your life
Save yourself, save your time
Regret won’t satisfy

Troubled girl in a troubled world
Save yourself
Troubled girl in a troubled world
Save your soul

Blinding lights won’t satisfy
Blinding lights they don’t see
Blinding lights they paralyse
Don’t paralyse your dreams

Troubled girl in a troubled world
Save yourself
Troubled girl in a troubled world
Save your soul

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