With “Under The Stars” out now, we took some time to hear from Sophia Bolinder. Read below to learn more about Sophia Bolinder, the story behind “Under The Stars,” and what’s to come.
Hi Sophia Bolinder! Let’s start with how did you get your artist name?
It is my actual name.
What city are you from, and where are you based now?
I am born and raised in Stockholm, Sweden, but I am currently living in Malmö, Sweden, which is in the south, very close to Denmark.
At what point in your life did you decide to pursue a career in music? How did you get started?
I have always wanted to pursue a career in music – I had thought about it since I was a teenager, but hadn’t found a suitable producer for me, up until a few years ago. I got an ad on my Instagram showing Soul Family Entertainment, a music company located in Falkenberg, close to Gothenburg , Sweden.
I was so thrilled seeing what the producer, John Soul (or John El-Khoury) was offering – his main genre was Soul and R&B, which I also love! So, it was an easy choice to start collaborating with him. It came clear that we had many similar visions and taste in music! When we started working together, I was impressed by his amazing talent and musical ear.
Has your upbringing played a role in shaping who you are and defining your sound today? If so, how?
It definitely has. My parents listened to a lot of good music and music has been a natural part of our family. Growing up, especially my mother, listened to a lot of Soul and R&B. I remember my mom listening to a lot of Chaka Khan, Al Jerrou, Stevie Wonder, and George Michael – just to mention a few.
Since I was a child, my personal main vocal heroes have been Toni Braxton, Celine Dion, Mariah Carey, and Whitney Houston. I also love Usher, Mario, and a lot of the R&B stars that were big in the early 2000’s.
How would you describe your sound to readers who may not be familiar with you?
I would say that my sound is similar (definitely aiming to be at least) to Toni Braxton!
Do you have any hobbies outside of music? What do you do to stay creative?
I love to do Zumba, play tennis, and to be with my dog, Ozzy, a ten-year old chihuahua. I actually also love going out doing karaoke! I especially go to a locally famous bar in Malmö where I live.
Who are some of your main musical influences?
Chaka Khan, Toni Braxton, Usher, Whitney Houston, and Mariah Carey.
Who would be a dream to collaborate with?
Definitely working with Toni Braxton and/or Mariah Carey! That would be my ultimate dream come true.
What’s one of the proudest moments of your music career so far?
It is definitely to be featured in this interview, among others! Also, it has been amazing getting added to some of the biggest playlists worldwide. Just knowing people stream and like my music is amazing!
What would you say are the greatest lessons that you’ve learned so far?
To never give up, always do your best, and never stop believing in yourself and what you do.
Now onto your release, ‘Under The Stars.’ What inspired this song? What is ‘Under The Stars’ about?
Mainly the song is written by John Soul, who is an amazing artist and producer. It is about knowing someone is the one, no matter location or circumstances. We chose the beat together, and I definitely wanted it to sound like something from late 90’s and early 00’s. I love the sexy and romantic vibe that I think we managed to achieve well.
What is your favorite lyric in ‘Under The Stars’ and why?
I love the ending verse the most , ‘No more waiting, let’s escape the night, lose ourselves in the neon lights’ (…) It’s something so thrilling about that feeling, to be with someone and going on an adventure together, not knowing what’s going to happen. John Soul did an amazing job mainly writing the lyrics, while I contributed with some parts.
How did the collaboration with John Soul come about?
We have done another song together, ‘What I Want,’ which was released in February. We wanted a similar soul sound, but I wanted a more slow jam tempo this time. We thought our voices blended well together, so we decided to do another duet!
What message do you hope fans take away from your music and from ‘Under The Stars?’
I want them to get a great feeling and hopefully have a great time with someone that they love while listening to the song!
What’s next for you? Are you working on any upcoming projects, or do you have any upcoming shows that we should be on the lookout for?
Yes, I have a few ideas about upcoming songs in the nearby future. I am very keen on making a cover of a great R&B song, just to mention one thing.
Where can we follow you on social media?
Instagram: sophiabolindermusic
https://www.instagram.com/sophiabolindermusic
Facebook: Sophia Bolinder – Artist/Singer
https://www.facebook.com/people/Sophia-Bolinder-ArtistSinger/61572624179377/
Spotify: Sophia Bolinder
Thank you for the great interview; wish you much continued success!
