Frances Willow is an alternative/indie producer and singer. She is one of many artists challenging the conventional parameters of her genre, and uses a variety of electronic and acoustic sounds within her set, and experiments with new age electronic hardware blended with a classic band set up to create her sound. Her music has an eclectic mix of strong narratives and highly metaphorical poetry, telling a story from start to finish and channelling a varied array of emotions from dark and intense to sweet and optimistic.
What or who inspired you to begin a career in music?
I’ve been into music since I was a kid, and I guess you could say my inspiration came from a mix of different influences in musical genre and role models. First off, I’ve always loved the sheer joy of playing with instruments and other people and seeing what can be created. As I grew up, I fell in love with songwriting. It became this emotional outlet for me, a way to express feelings I couldn’t put into words. I’ve always been fascinated by words and poetry, how they can tell stories and convey messages through metaphors. I’ve always felt that music lets me combine all these passions and ideas into one career.
What differs you and your sound from other artists in the music industry?
My sound stands out because it’s a fusion of diverse influences from loads of different genres. I trained classically with my vocals, which gives my voice a unique touch that is very adaptable, and I love being able to use my full range in my writing process. I grew up on rock music, bands such as Foo Fighters, AC/DC, Deftones, and loads more! I also record, produce, mix and master every track by myself, and have spent a lot of my adolescent years producing predominantly electronic style music, so being able to blend that area of music into my current style of writing means I can incorporate both acoustic and electronic elements! I’m lucky to have incredibly talented friends with strong jazz roots, and together, we create a musical blend that’s truly distinct and exciting!
Your debut single ‘anna banana’ is out now. Can you please describe the creative process and inspiration behind the release?
Anna Banana is an Alternative Indie Rock track that I started writing when I was 13, I had an argument with a friend as one does when they are a teenager, and wrote the chorus of this song. In my second year of university I decided to revisit it as a task to myself and ended up really liking the outcome, this song was also the beginning of my new alias and helped create and shape the sound I wanted to have for ‘Frances Willow’
Throughout your musical career, have you experienced any ‘wow’ moments?
I’ve been very fortunate in my musical career so far considering it’s only the beginning of my journey, I’ve experience a number of wow moments, and I tend to find them in the smaller things over playing big venues or having a certain amount of listens. I tend to find these wow moments in my writing process, in rehearsals with the band and in my performances. Things like finding a flow when I’m writing and loving what I’m making, bringing all my band mates together and perfecting a song and the energy being so electric, and having new audiences love the music when they see my performances are all moments that I will always cherish.
What personal advice would you give to someone wanting to pursue this career?
I’ve always been a big believer in the concept of if you truly want something enough, believe in your ability to achieve it. It’s not just about hope; it’s about having faith in yourself and your dreams. Stay dedicated, keep learning, and never underestimate the power of perseverance! Success often comes to those who refuse to give up, as I’m still in the early stages of my career, I remind myself to be persistent, stay focused, and remember that determination can take you far!
What does the foreseeable future hold for you as an artist?
The future’s looking pretty exciting for me as an artist! With my knowledge of different musical genres and overall excitement about my future projects, as well as the support of my talented jazz-influenced friends, I’m geared up to continue to keep pushing my creative boundaries, experimenting with my songwriting, and crafting unique sounds that resonate with listeners. Collaborations, live performances, and maybe even venturing into producing for other artists are all on the horizon. The possibilities are vast, and I’m ready to embrace every opportunity that comes my way in the foreseeable future!
Anything else you would like to add?
Thanks so much for taking the time to interview me, I’m grateful for every opportunity that I’ve been given so far, and I’m so glad you’ve enjoyed the track!!
‘anna banana’ is availbable now via all major platforms.
Connect with Frances Willow
Credits: All photography by Victoria Ralph
Leave a Reply