Alla Ray
Her earliest memories are that of wanting to hit the stage and perform. Being the daughter of a professional dancer only fuelled those flames: "being backstage with my mother, desperately wanting to try on her dresses and ballet shoes" are some of the recollections plucked from her childhood days.
Dreaming of becoming her mother and emulating her dance success, Alla Ray began her journey of chasing stardom. However, it was male relatives who then had a major impact on her proceedings, and the world of pop music was soon where she wanted her career to lie.
During the time, Western music wasn't so easily accessible in her native country of Russia, but her father - a scientist - managed to build radio equipment that picked up both British and American stations, bringing stars including Elton John and The Beatles into the family household.
Big names in the world of jazz continued to inspire the rising star - such as Nina Simone and Ella Fitzgerald - and when it came to stagecraft, names including Freddie Mercury were to thank for her learning.
After a debut UK show at London's Dingwalls, Alla Ray was offered support slots on a number of arena tours both in the country and mainland Europe.
Now, she's writing new material that represents exactly how much she's changed as a songwriter and a performer, and she draws influence from "my own emotions and experiences" - even leading to a track called 'Revenge', about a close family member's love affair.
However, her music is absolutely upbeat at the best of times, and her debut single 'On Fire' is evidence of that - a great slice of dance-pop perfection that explores the joys of being young, alive and romantically involved.
Energetic with infectious pop beats and hooks, the song has been remixed by Grammy nominated stars including David Aude (Katy Perry, Rihanna, Lady Gaga) and K Klass (Kylie Minogue, Pet Shop Boys), as well as contributions being made from Nathan C (Example) and Tom Stephan (Basement Jaxx, Missy Elliot).
Alla Ray - 'On Fire''On Fire' is to be released for download at all major online music retailers on January 26, 2014.
Check out the music video for the song below.