“I know, I know, I know what you’re doing. You think you’re so clever with your plans.” With these sharp lyrics, Alex Kolo‘s ‘Amsterdam‘ is your new heartbreak revenge anthem. Her bold, confident sound, combined with catchy songwriting, makes her an artist you absolutely need on your radar. In our interview, Alex talks about her latest single “Amsterdam”, her musical journey so far, and her plans for the near future. Make room in your playli(z)st – Alex Kolo is an artist you won‘t want to miss!

How and when have you started getting into music?

I remember loving music ever since I was a toddler riding in my parent’s car listening to the radio. I started to take vocal lessons at the age of 9.

Did the way you listen to and experience music change since being an artist yourself?

In being an artist myself, I’ve found myself being extra attentive to the lyrics of songs while listening to them.

I saw you were part of the short film “Nothing, except everything.”I watched it myself, and was surprised to see you also played a role in that! Can you tell me a bit about how you ended up in this short film and what that experience was like?

As an artist, I’m always looking to explore different creative outlets. What struck me is how many times we had to film one scene to get it good enough. Recording a song is similar. Sometimes when I’m recording a song, I can sing it 50 times before we feel it’s right.

Is acting something you would like to pursue outside of music?

My priority is getting more music out, but I certainly enjoyed the time I’ve spent on movie sets and would be open to doing more.

What would your dream job be if you could be anything (besides a musician)?

Likely anything that would keep me in the proximity of music – on the business side or scouting talent perhaps.

If your music could be the soundtrack to a specific character, who would it be?

That’s a hard one. I think pick the romantic lead of any rom com – one who endures heartbreak but ends her story confident and victorious.

You are originally from the U.S. but moved to Berlin a year ago! What is your favorite thing about Berlin/Germany?

Berlin is just such a great city for artists – the industry, the opportunity, the environment. What I also love about being there is how easy it is to travel to other parts of Europe, where I have a lot of friends.

Do you listen to German music/artists from Germany?

Some of my favorite artists are from Germany including Alice Merton and Wincent Weiss.

What is your favorite German song or song by a German artist?

My favorite German song is “Hier mit Dir” (Here with You) by Wincent Weiss.

Can you tell me about the song writing process behind Amsterdam?

To be honest, the process wasn’t linear. A friend made a comment, it prompted a reaction in me and from that a song idea was born. I worked on it on my own and brought it to my co-writer, Lydia Laird, to develop it further. Then we pushed on it – in the studio and in post-production.

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photo by Fadwa Ward[/caption]

What is your favorite part of the song & why?

My favorite part of the song is the beginning. It’s subtle, but it draws you in. And, I hope, it’s unique.

At the end of Amsterdam, one can hear a railway station announcement. I think this is pretty cool, because I like unconventional and fun elements like this in songs! How did that come about?

I am glad you think it’s cool! I think it’s cool, too. And all of the credit goes to Benny Meza, my producer.

Have you yourself actually ever been to Amsterdam?

Yes, I have!

Do you have any travel recommendations when in Amsterdam?

My biggest recommendation is the Vegan Junk Food Bar. No lie, I went there every single day while visiting.

You mentioned in another interview that your dream collaboration would be Alice Merton. When I first listened to Amsterdam, even without having seen that interview, I was reminded of her music too!

I’m touched and honored that my music reminds you of Alice Merton because she is my biggest inspiration.

What exactly is it that you admire about Alice’s music style and how do you think one can hear this influence in your songs?

I admire how vulnerable she is in her lyrics and how it sometimes seems like a diary entry in song form. I try to be just as raw and vulnerable as she when I am writing my own music.

Were there any songs by other artists that inspired your track?

I don’t think there were any songs in particular. I just admire Alice Merton’s approach, her authenticity and her vulnerability.

What is a song by another indie artist that you believe deserves more recognition?

“Night Moves” by Tomsy.

What are your goals for the rest of this year? Personally or music-wise?

My goal is more songs, more time in the studio and releasing an album. And I hope to start performing live before the end of the year.

What should we be looking forward to in future?

I’ll be releasing an EP next month – Maybe One Day – that includes my already released singles along with a new track. And then, more and more music.

Where can people find you online if they want to support you and your music?
Instagram

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