Leyla Sabo steps into the spotlight with an impressive debut single, Don’t Underestimate Me, releasing on June 16, her twelfth birthday. The track arrives on a wave of anticipation from fans who have followed her journey from winning international awards to performing before ten thousand people. This context brings added weight to the song’s message of resilience and self-worth.
Built on a pop-rock foundation, Don’t Underestimate Me features a crisp drum groove and warm bass that support the melody without overshadowing it. The instrumentation is clean and energetic, and guitar accents add subtle texture to the chorus sections. There is a polished yet organic feel to the production, which mirrors Leyla’s blend of youthful exuberance and vocal maturity.
Vocally, Leyla channels soulful intensity reminiscent of Amy Winehouse and Adele, as noted in her press materials. She navigates the dynamic shifts between vulnerable verses and bold choruses with natural confidence. Lines like “You cannot define my story” resonate deeply because they come from someone who has already faced scrutiny, trained hard, and earned her place on the stage.
The composition uses contrast effectively. Quiet moments in the verses allow her voice to breathe, and the chorus then bursts with assertive energy. This gives the lyrics space to shine without feeling overproduced or theatrical. Her delivery feels authentic, forceful in the chorus, and reflective in the quieter parts.
Overall, Don’t Underestimate Me delivers on its promise of empowerment and freshness. At just twelve years old, Leyla Sabo has created a song that embraces bold emotion and strong melody. It is a statement of intent and a sign of even more potent music to come.