I want as many people to hear my music as possible, says 'perfectionist' Folly Rae
Folly Rae is one of the most exciting British female musical prospects for 2018. Having released her debut EP in 2017, the Hampstead born songstress caused a stir online and impressed tastemakers across the board.
With her magnetic vocals and a style that’s been described as a cross between Lana Del Rey, Zara Larsson and Ellie Goulding, Folly Rae has been making some serious vibes.
Her latest single 'Sniper' released on April 20 and is available for streaming now. Listen to it below:
Half Norwegian, half British, Folly fell in love with music from an early age. Surrounded by Motown or jazz records courtesy her family’s record player and trained as a dancer from the age of five, she would often pen songs and perform them to her peers; but getting the confidence took a long time as many would say her voice was too unusual.
Folly decided to follow her path as a singer and songwriter regardless, grabbing global attention with her single ‘U’, which has racked up 2 million+ streams since its release in summer of 2016.
Meaww caught up with Folly to discuss her journey so far, her musical influences, the new single and her upcoming plans among other things. Here's what we got:
What’s the story behind the title of your single 'Sniper'?
I wanted a strong metaphor to convey how much I wanted to outsmart the man I thought was cheating on me.
So, I came up with this idea.. it was like, one of those sniper-type characters you see in video games. Almost spy-like, quick and always one step ahead of their opponent.
When did you first start performing?
I danced from the age of three, but didn't start to sing in front of anyone until I was about 15/16 years old - then I couldn't stop!
Who are your biggest influences?
Joni Mitchell and Sia.
What kind of music do you like listening to? Can we have a link to a playlist/mixtape that you particularly enjoy?
Here's a Spotify playlist I made, it has something for every mood!
If you had to pick just one artist/band that you would like to collaborate with in the near future, who would it be?
Right now, I'd have to say Kendrick Lamar.
Any new collaborators that you’ve been working with/plan to collaborate with?
I've been working with Tre Jean-Marie (Craig David) quite a bit and of course Sky Adams who produced Sniper, which has been wicked! I have quite a few exciting collaborations coming up too!
What were some of the challenges / the greatest challenge that you faced while recording your music?
I'm not very good at explaining to a producer what I hear in my head. I hear the sounds I want but, technically I don't know what will create that sound on an instrument or computer, which can be hard as I'm quite a perfectionist. I can imagine this is probably really annoying for the producer too lol! Also, going through a relationship breakdown whilst recording is tough and emotionally draining, as is trying to get those emotions into the music but making sure it didn't bring down my energy in the process... Life!
Vinyl or digital? What’s your preferred format and why?
I think, maybe digital because I can listen on the go. But, saying that, there is nothing better than coming home, lighting some candles and listening to an album on the record player!
What do you think about music streaming? Do you think it’s helpful or harmful for up and coming artists?
At the moment I think its good because finding a new artist is easier and more accessible to the listener. For instance, at this stage, I want as many people to hear my music as possible. But I can't lie, I think it does slightly take the magic out of buying a piece of music, having it in your hands, cherishing it and playing it on repeat.
Any plans of touring soon?
Yes, lots of plans. I have some announcements that I can't wait to make!
What can we expect next?
a 'quirky AF' music video for Sniper, and more, more music!