Emerging artist Little Dog Star captivates with her debut single “It’s you,” a genuine and luminous indie pop anthem about love, personal growth, and resilience through change. In our discussion, singer/songwriter Izzy Steele shares insights into her Manchester beginnings, the hurdles of relocating to London, the musicians who inspire her, and the steady presence of love in her music.
Stream: “It’s you” – Little Dog Star
I wanted my origins to be evident in the music. Embracing what distinguishes you is crucial instead of trying to conform, both sonically and lyrically.
* * *
Manchester native and now London-based indie artist Little Dog Star has made a stunning debut with “It’s you,” a shimmering indie pop dream wrapped in an alternative style. Her luminous vocals combine with guitars that glisten like urban lights after a downpour, while the unfiltered emotion reverberates through every rhythm. This debut is one that captivates, tugs at your heart, yet uplifts by the last chorus. “It’s you” blends charm with intensity—it’s a love song, a homesick ballad, and a coming-of-age declaration all in one.
It’s you – Little Dog Star
I’m wide awake
But my thoughts are still swirling
Will it, will it take you somewhere
Get you, get you somewhere
I’ve stumbled
For the thrill of it, pondering
Will it, will it take you somewhere
Get you, get you somewhere
I want to drive
Want to drive with you, darling
Will it, will it take you somewhere
Get you, get you somewhere
I’m trying to leave
But something keeps pulling me back
I guess you’re the answer.
Inspired by a moment of reflection and emotional reassessment, Little Dog Star (aka Izzy Steele) navigates the trials of starting anew in a different city and the stabilizing influence of love. “I started recording with Manta Tatton and Jamie Stewart back in February,” she shares with Atwood Magazine.
“During that time, I had been listening extensively to MOIO, Beabadoobee, and The Japanese House, reflecting on my experience of moving from Manchester to London and the difficulties it entailed. I often questioned whether it would ever feel as I had hoped. Ultimately, my girlfriend was my motivation to persevere, reminding me of my purpose during such changing times.”
“In the studio, the song took shape in just a few hours, and we nearly wrapped it up by the end of the night. I wanted to highlight my background in the music. It’s essential to embrace what makes you unique rather than trying to blend in, both sonically and lyrically. I remember playing it on repeat for days afterward, so when it was time to finalize the song, I aimed to keep it as close to the original demo because it had an energy I didn’t want to lose.”
That energy permeates every moment—starting from the gentle flow of the opening lines to the gut-wrenching refrain, “Wait! wait! wait! wait! / Don’t leave me / Say you love me / ‘Cause I can’t be something without you.”
And it doesn’t really matter
what we’re discussing
It’s still the same, every time
It’s you, my love
You, you complete me
Could you maybe
See this through?
Wait! wait! wait! wait!
Wait, don’t leave me
Say you love me
'Cause I can’t be something without you
Wait! wait! wait! wait!
It’s a song about holding onto—love, purpose, and the reasons that make us stay despite the urge to run. The ambiance evokes a phone call from a train platform, capturing the conflict of wanting to leave yet yearning to stay: “I called my mum / From a southeast station / Saying I want to be there / She told me to take my time, dear.”
For anyone who has left home, experienced deep love, or simply needed a person or thing to cling to, “It’s you” resonates on a profound level and provides solace. It showcases a young artist discovering her voice and letting it resonate, vibrantly and fearlessly. Though Little Dog Star is just starting her journey, she is already shining brightly. Atwood Magazine spoke with Izzy Steele about her pride in her hometown, her musical influences, and love's ability to ground us in uncertain times.
— —
:: Stream/purchase “It’s you” here ::
:: Connect with Little Dog Star here ::
— —
Little Dog Star “It’s you” © 2025
A CONVERSATION WITH LITTLE DOG STAR
Atwood Magazine: Izzy, it’s a pleasure to connect! For those discovering you today through this article, what would you like them to know about Little Dog Star and your music?
Little Dog Star: I simply want them to enjoy the music
Up-and-coming artist Little Dog Star makes a striking impression with her debut single “It’s You,” a heartfelt and vibrant indie pop anthem centered on love, personal growth, and discovering strength amid change. In our discussion, singer-songwriter Izzy Steele shares insights about her Manchester origins, the difficulties she faced relocating to London, the musicians who motivate her, and how love has served as a steadfast influence in her music.
