Leah Williamson, the England and Arsenal footballer, has opened up about her musical tastes, from childhood favorites to songs that still give her goosebumps. In an interview, she shared the tracks that define her life, both on and off the pitch.
Early Musical Influences
Williamson's first musical love was Enrique Iglesias' 'Hero' and LeAnn Rimes' 'How Do I Live', which she played on repeat via a cassette player with fuzzy foam headphones. She also fondly recalls downloading 'Michaela Strachan' by Scouting for Girls as her first single, fascinated by the song's subject even before knowing who Strachan was.
Karaoke and Party Anthems
For karaoke, Williamson's initiation at Arsenal was Ben E King's 'Stand By Me', but now she'd opt for a Justin Bieber number like 'One Less Lonely Girl'. Her favorite party songs include older classics like Luther Vandross' 'Never Too Much', perfect for multi-generational gatherings at 50th birthdays or wedding anniversaries.
Songs That Stir Emotions
Williamson admits that Robyn's 'Dancing on My Own' once made her cry at a New Year's Eve party when she was 16, leading her to call her mum for a ride home. She says, 'Even though it's a great tune, I think it just still got a bit much for me.' Meanwhile, 'Where Are Ü Now' by Jack Ü featuring Justin Bieber is a song she can no longer listen to due to overplay in the Arsenal changing room.
Football Anthems and Secret Favorites
Her favorite football song is 'Three Lions' by Baddiel, Skinner & Lightning Seeds, associated with the 2022 Euros and the feeling of singing 'It's coming home'. She also gets goosebumps from Louis Dunford's 'The Angel (North London Forever)'. A secret favorite is Elvis Presley's 'Return to Sender', which accompanied her to football practice.
Life-Changing Music
Williamson credits her grandmother for introducing her to live music, including Paul Simon, Florence + the Machine, and Teddy Swims. Seeing Norah Jones perform 'Come Away With Me' without phones out was a revelation: 'I thought: This is what music is about.'
Morning Motivation and Funeral Wishes
To wake up, Williamson listens to Texas' 'Inner Smile' or Fred Again's 'Billie (Loving Arms)'. For her funeral, she wants upbeat songs like Cher's 'Believe' or The Spinners' 'I'll Be Around' to ensure people have a good time rather than cry.
Williamson is an ambassador for Cadbury. England women's next World Cup qualifying game is against Greece on 9 October.
