Laura Pieri – Frankie

By starrymag | August 12, 2024

By: Jamie Steinberg

 

 

Q) How would you describe your sound?

A) If I had to, I would say eclectic pop, but it’s really an ever-changing thing for me.

Q) Who are some of your musical influences?

A) I never really had a solid influence that singularly inspired me. I’m influenced by different artists for different things. I love Cher, Prince, Michael Jackson’s performances, Taylor Swift’s lyricism, Billie Eilish’s delivery and so forth. Together they’re like a kaleidoscope of inspiration, you can always turn it around and see something new.

Q) Talk about the story behind your song “Daughter of Demeter.”

A) “Daughter of Demeter” is the most metaphorical song of the Frankie EP, while also being the most on the nose. It’s loosely inspired by Persephone, the Greek goddess and queen of the underworld. I’ve always loved her story and how, even though it seems like she’s powerless in her fate, that’s not really how I approach things, and sometimes I feel powerless and want to just burn everything down, me included.

Q) What is it about Persephone and her journey that you feel so connected to?

A) I feel like she’s often described as this powerless thing, and we know so little about her myth throughout history. You wanna talk about Zeus’ escapades? We have so many! Yet, Hades and Persephone are kind of always just doing their own thing. You can’t tell me that was a kidnapping. Plus, on a more abstract level, I really enjoy the duality and the juxtaposition of her character. She’s the maiden of spring, wears flowers in her hair and runs in the gardens barefoot but also is the queen of the dead, rumored to be more ruthless than her husband.

Q) What do you think it is about the song that fans connect to?

A) I think everyone has at some point wished they were in a position to go after the justice they feel they deserve.

Q) How does the video for the track play into the message behind it?

A) The video serves as a visual extension of the track’s narrative. It’s crafted to reflect the emotions and themes embedded in the lyrics for a more immersive experience. For example, in “Sea of Tragedy,” the visuals really hoe in both the feelings of entrapment and struggle, which is central to Frankie’s journey, and the poetry of it all.

Q) What is your song writing process? Do you need music before you can create lyrics?

A) For this project, specifically, I had the specific story in mind, and from there Sky [Cocco] and I built both the lyrics and the music. I don’t necessarily need the music first, but it often helps set the tone.

Q) How much of a hand do you have in the production of your music?

A) For the Frankie EP, I came into the writing knowing what I wanted the songs to sound like. I had the opportunity to work with an all-female team, which was incredibly important to me. I collaborated closely with producer Skyler Cocco and this partnership played a significant role in shaping the overall sound and direction of the EP. I could not have done it without her. Having someone who understands your perspective and gets what you are trying to say is more than half the battle, for sure, so I am so grateful for her being in that room and helping me bring this to life.

Q) Your EP Frankieis out now. What are some themes you explore in it? 

A) Frankie delves into themes of self-discovery, empowerment and resilience. Each track represents a different phase in Frankie’s journey, from feeling trapped and disillusioned to finding strength and embracing her true self. It’s a narrative about a girl breaking free from her constraints and celebrating individuality.

Q) Where did the idea come from to make a short film to accompany Frankie?

A) That was always the idea with this project. I wanted to do something that was multisensory, and give the listener more to visualize the sound, I wanted to add a visual dimension to the EP’s narrative. I felt that a visual representation would help convey the emotions and journey of the protagonist, Frankie, more effectively. Each track on the EP transitions into the next, creating a cohesive story that I wanted to bring to life through film. It’s one thing to hear references to Persephone, or hear about a goddess, but when you watch and listen at the same time, those things fuse together.

Q) What message or emotion are you hoping listeners take away from exploring this EP?

A) I hope listeners take away a sense of empowerment and self-acceptance from Frankie. The EP is about reclaiming one’s voice and power and I want it to inspire people to embrace their true selves, regardless of expectations or limitations. Each song on the EP reflects different aspects of this journey, from anger and frustration to acceptance and love. I want listeners to feel that it’s okay to go through these emotions and that they can emerge stronger and more self-assured on the other side.

Q) Where are some of your favorite places to perform and what makes those locations so significant to you?

A) Some of my favorite places to perform include intimate venues where I can really connect with the audience. For example, I love performing in New York because it’s where I started my journey in the music industry. The energy and diversity of the city always inspire me. Los Angeles is also special because of its vibrant music scene and the opportunities it has provided for me to grow as an artist. Each of these locations holds a special place in my heart because they represent different stages of my career and personal growth.

Q) Who would you most like to collaborate with on a song in the future?

A) There are so many artists I’d love to collaborate with, but one of my top choices would be Banks. I admire her innovative approach to music and her ability to convey deep emotions through her lyrics and production. I personally think she has been killing it for a while now.  Working with her would be an incredible experience, I have no doubt.

Q) What artist/musician are you currently listening to and why do you dig them?

A) Right now, I’m really into Rosalía. Her fusion of traditional flamenco with modern pop is incredibly unique and refreshing. I love how she stays true to her cultural roots while pushing musical boundaries. Plus, she is a FANTASTIC performer. Her Glastonbury show in 2019 was out of this world.

Q) What would you like to say to everyone who is a fan and supporter of you and your work?

A) To everyone who has supported me and my work, I want to say a huge thank you, and I could not have done any of this without you. Your encouragement and love mean the world to me. This journey hasn’t always been easy but knowing that I have such amazing fans keeps me motivated and inspired. I hope my music resonates with you and helps you in your own journey. Thank you for believing in me and for being a part of this incredible ride.