Singer-songwriter and producer Cimo Fränkel has established himself as a force to be reckoned with over a decade in the music business and several hit productions including “Sex” by Cheat Codes and Kris Kross Amsterdam.
The Amsterdam-raised musician who began experimenting with music production at the age of 15 has grown steadily over the years. The rising pop act who began releasing original material in 2020 is marked by sonic diversity that swings from earworm melodies to raw, vulnerable productions.
Speaking to Earmilk, he delves into the inspiration behind his latest track “Closed The Door,” the self-love laden message he wishes people would take away from his artistry, the most challenging and rewarding parts of the music-making process and more.
1.What is the inspiration/message behind “Closed The Door”?
On an emotional level, the song is more about finding the courage to break up with someone when you know it won’t work for you. Being true to yourself is sometimes really hard and it’s a heart-breaking decision to make especially if the other person doesn’t see it the same way. It’s that type of emotional juggle that really inspired me to get this track out.
2. How would you say your sound has evolved over time and where do you hope for it to go from here?
My sound has evolved over time with a distinct vibe. In a way, it's clearer for me and the listener to recognize my songs as a ‘Cimo Frankel’ song. Getting that signature right is more a matter of being closer to my centre, what defines me as an artist.
3. If listeners could take away one message from your music what would you want it to be?
Love yourself and don’t be afraid to be looking out for yourself instead of others all the time. It’s easy to be brave for others, but you need to be brave for yourself before you can take on the extra weight.
4.Where do you draw inspiration from in your music – is it more personal or from stories around you?
Sometimes it’s very personal, most of the time, really, but I also wrote songs that are either inspired by something that happened to someone else or something that is a familiar feeling but not necessarily my story. Art is about relating to others and creating that space where you can convey their story.
5.What’s the most challenging part of the music making process and what’s the most rewarding part?
The most challenging part is making decisions when it comes to your own creations. When you write for other people, at the end of the day, they tell you what needs to be changed to fit their project best. With my own music sometimes I have three options per section of the song. Making the right decision is challenging, because there is no right answer. It’s funny, but when I follow my gut and just do what I feel is best, I am always the most satisfied with the final product.
The most rewarding feeling is when the song is out. It’s there, in public, for everyone to hear, that’s it. You can’t go back, no more changes. It’s out. With that release I can finally let go of the creative part that’s been fighting the whole time, and just enjoy my own song.
6.What’s been the most surreal moment of your career so far and what’s on your bucket list?
Touring with Armin van Buuren was probably the most surreal moment. The arenas we went to, the performances we made, the raw energy of the cities we’ve seen, it was amazing completely extra ordinary. I added the experience on my bucket list not long after, there is a big tour but this time I am headlining.
7. Finally if you could describe your artistry in 3 words what would they be and why?
“Unformulated Pop Music” a lot of people consider my music pop, and I do too. However have I never intentionally looked for the catchiest melody, it’s just how I write. So yes, it’s pop, but completely approached from an organic feeling, rather than wanting to make a generically catchy tune.
