Pennsylvania-born, LA-based artist Frex is a fast-growing name in the alternative R&B scene. A lifelong misfit, she uses her music to process feelings, experiences and push boundaries with the hope that her artistry helps others embrace their own vulnerability and overcome what they’re going through. Now, following her breakthrough moment, with the viral hit “Oxford Circus”, in 2022, she unveils her latest single, “Postcard”, a classic sad girl love story.
“Postcards” is a laid-back, unbothered tune drenched in heartfelt lyrics, ethereal guitar chords and a rhythmic production, where we see Frex putting human connection at the forefront of her genre-blending artistry. Here, we connected with the singer-songwriter to discuss the single, her artistic upbringing, love for London and some exciting features coming up.
Listen to the single…
Read the full interview…
Hey Frex! How has 2023 been treating you so far?
It’s been quite a year! a lot of firsts.
Can you take us back to when you first fell in love with music?
I’ve always loved music, it’s always been a part of my life. it fascinated me as a little kid.
Who has been a major influence to you both musically and personally so far?
Probably Madonna, SZA and Rihanna. so many more but I think they have been the most impactful throughout my life.
What was it like growing up in a small town in Pennsylvania?
At the time I was really frustrated at the environment I was in, but looking back I do actually appreciate being from PA.
I was always jealous of kids who lived in the city because I felt like didn’t have the freedom they did. I didn’t have anything interesting around me either. central PA is pretty conservative and I went to a catholic school so I also felt like my creativity was stifled, especially if it was anything out of the box of what a good catholic would approve of.
How do you tap into your creativity when writing new music?
I just try and make music that makes me feel things. I try my best to be honest in my writing and if I can arrange some words with a melody that makes my chest flutter then I’ll be happy.
Congratulations on your single “Oxford Circus”! Can you talk us through the message and inspiration behind the track?
Thank you. That song is about a friend of mine who lives in London. before I went to that session I spent about two hours journaling about my trip to London so I feel like I kind of knew what I wanted to say.
The single was an overnight viral success, racking up over 12 million streams. What was this experience like for you?
It was really exciting. it’s been life-changing. I remember being so frustrated around that time because I felt like nobody was paying attention or taking me seriously, and then boom. I still have so much work to do but I feel like that was the first milestone in the next chapter of my career.
This summer you did your first UK live debut performing at All Points East Festival. What was your opinion of the London scene and how did the performance go for you?
You guys must know by now that I love London. I love the city and I love the people. the performance was great and I was happy to see people who already knew me and also people who didn’t but were vibing anyway. it was raining outside and we were under a tent, but there was a rainbow while I was performing which was sweet lol.
Where do you wish to take your artistry in the near future?
Two things I really want to improve on are visuals and my ability to play instruments and incorporating that into production and live shows.
Who would be a dream collaboration of yours to work with?
This list is ever-changing but the top ones that come to mind at the moment would be Thundercat, Thee Sacred Souls, and Steve Lacy.
What are you working on currently? Any exciting projects on the horizon?
Anyone who has been following me for a while has probably heard me say that I’ve been working on a project for some time now.. well it’s on the way and there are also some exciting features coming up!