Seat At The Table; Episode Five with Alex Kolo

In this exclusive interview for Secrets Behind the Sounds, I sit down with indie pop singer-songwriter Alex Kolo, a rising artist whose music whose a captivating blend of global influences and personal storytelling. With a deep passion for music and fluency in multiple languages, including German and Dutch, Alex's sound is a vibrant reflection of her experiences living abroad and studying various cultures. As she continues to carve out her unique place in the indie pop scene, Alex opens up about her creative journey, how different languages shape her music, and the secrets behind her recent releases.

How did your journey into music begin? Was there a defining moment that made you want to pursue a career as a singer-songwriter?

My journey into music began when I started taking private vocal lessons when I was 9. I remember being in high school and listening to the song “Why So Serious” by Alice Merton while thinking about what I wanted to do with my life and deciding that I wanted to pursue songwriting because it’s my true passion and I “don’t want to live with regrets.”

What drew you to indie pop as your primary genre, and how do you feel your background as a music aficionado influences your sound?

I have always preferred to listen to pop music on the radio. When I started getting into songwriting, I was really inspired by Alice Merton’s songwriting and alternative music. I felt that the indie/alternative genre really gave me more room to express myself through my lyrics and gave the song a deeper meaning. I feel that my background as a music aficionado has given me the ability to incorporate multiple genres into my music.

With your fluency in German and Dutch and your studies in Polish and Russian how do these languages and cultures shape your lyrics and melodies?

I have yet to write a song in another language, however I love to listen to both German and Dutch mainstream pop. Sometimes the content of these songs can inspire me to write lyrics about a certain topic.

Can you walk us through your songwriting process? Do you start with lyrics, a melody, or a particular concept?

Usually, melodies for a chorus just come to my head along with some core words. I then go to my keyboard or pick up my ukulele and I try to come up with some more words and at least get a full verse and chorus. My final step in writing is collaborating with another songwriter and completely solidifying the song.

How do you balance influences from various genres to create something that feels authentic and true to your personal sound?

I usually try to stay in the indie pop category but certain songs I write venture into different genres. For example, my latest song, In Circles has a hint of country in it! I find that the genre of music my co-writers normally write always has a slight impact on how the song comes out.

What differences, if any, do you notice between the music scenes in the countries you've lived in compared to your home country?

I’ve noticed that the music scene in the United States is much different and more diverse than in Germany. I think this is because the United States is such a young country which means there is still so much influence from other parts of the world!

How has your sound evolved since your first release, and what have you learned about yourself as an artist along the way?

In Circles was actually recorded months before the other songs on the EP. My sound after recording In Circles evolved into more of a solid indie pop style. I have learned that it’s completely okay to have a different style than the other musicians around you, and it doesn’t make you less-than -It makes you cool.

What are some of the biggest challenges you've faced in your career so far, and how have they shaped your growth as an artist?

Honestly, I am at the very beginning of my journey as an artist, but so far my music has received a lot of positive feedback (especially One of These Days)! After recording my EP, I’ve unfortunately had to take a step back from my career because I was struggling with my mental health. These past few months, I’ve been extremely emotional, which has had a profound impact on my writing. Of course I am not happy that I struggled with my mental health, but I do know it has turned me into an artist who will write about vulnerable topics that will hopefully touch and help people.

If you could collaborate with any artists, dead or alive, who would it be and why?

If I could collaborate with any artist it would be Alice Merton. She is my complete inspiration because all of her music is amazing and her songwriting is incredibly authentic and personal, which can be few and far between these days.

Can you share any "Secrets Behind the Sounds" of your latest releases? Were there any unconventional techniques or personal stories that went into its creation?

The secret behind the song In Circles is that I wrote it when I moved to Germany, and was insecure and anxious about making new friends.

As our conversation with Alex Kolo comes to a close, it is clear that her passion for music and her global experiences have shaped not only he sound but also her perspective as an artist.

From her early inspirations to the challenges she has faced along the way, Alex's journey is a testament to her authenticity and dedication. Her openness about mental health and the personal stories behind her songs reveals a depth that resonates with listeners on a much deeper level. As she continues to evolve, blending languages, genres, and heartfelt emotions, there’s no doubt that Alex Kolo’s music will continue to inspire and connect with audiences around the world. We look forward to seeing where her unique voice and talent take her next.