Rafael Leao has released an interview published by AC Milan's official website in which he talked about his career as a singer.
On the meaning of music for him:
"Music means love to me, it means escaping from problems and finding myself. I'm an introvert, I don't talk much but I love to write. I can't express my feelings in words, so I write them. It's a way to address issues both in football and in everyday life."
On the origin of his stage name:
"The stage name is WAY 45. 45 is the postal code of the neighborhood where I grew up and 'way' like the English word. The name means never forgetting: always remember your roots wherever you go."
On being an example both on the field and in music, Leao said:
"I always try to convey my experience because it's all about motivation. On the field, I try to motivate the guys who see me as an example. I encourage them to never give up and to dream of becoming a footballer. What I try to convey with music is the same. People only know Rafael Leao, the player, they don't know the person."
On what his artist alter ego represents:
"The artist WAY45 represents Leao as a person, not as a footballer. A person who talks about his feelings, life lessons, and his story."
On keeping the two lives separate, Leao said:
"I keep the two lives separate. When I make music, I focus on music, when I play football, I only think about that."
READ MORE | Stefano Mauri: "Milan’s real problem is injuries. Conte? He’d fit in well at Milan"
