Melbourne’s Leyla Sabo is already delivering a voice and presence that make you pause and ask, “Wait, how old is she?” as she sets to release her upcoming single, “Don’t Underestimate Me,” on June 16, coinciding with her 12th birthday. This song is a testament to the fact that raw talent and fearless conviction can have a profound impact, regardless of age.
The track comes with significant anticipation, not just because Leyla has already performed in front of 10,000 people at John Cain Arena, won five major singing competitions, and earned an international songwriting award by age 10, but also because she possesses a rare mix of grit, soul, and spark. Imagine the smoky rasp of Amy Winehouse combined with the emotional depth of Adele and the electric punch of Teddy Swims, funneled through a pre-teen powerhouse who writes her songs and invests meaning into every word.
“Don’t Underestimate Me” is more than just a debut single, it’s a rallying cry. With bold lyrics and a rhythm section that exudes self-assurance, the song stands as a fierce, youth-led anthem of resilience, growth, and recognizing your worth even when the world views you as “too young.” From the opening line to the final hook, Leyla commands attention. This is not a gimmick or a cute-kid moment, it’s a rising storm wrapped in melody.
“This one’s for the broken-hearted with unfinished business,” Leyla says, and you can feel it. Whether you’re 12 or 42, her delivery resonates universally. Her vocal phrasing is instinctive and emotive, allowing her pain and power to coexist in each breath. Backed by crisp, contemporary production that leans toward soul-pop with just the right hint of grit, the single manages to sound both modern and timeless.
As a songwriter, Leyla is already pushing boundaries. She’s not just sharing her own story, she’s voicing the experiences of anyone who has ever been overlooked, dismissed, or underestimated. The brilliance lies in her ability to channel those feelings not into anger, but into triumph. It’s clear she knows her path, and she’s ready to accelerate down it.
“Don’t Underestimate Me” is about to break records. Please keep your eyes on Leyla Sabo, as she blasts your speaker with good musical sounds. She’s already arrived.
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