With a combination of raw emotion, soulful lyrics, and an epic production from Will Snyder, “Slowly” is a powerful anthem that explores the moments following a confession of romance to a long-time friend. Following themes of love, potential loss, and facing the unknown, Oglu’s unique mix of vocal textures makes for a soulful story of a relatable experience.
What’s your story?
I grew up between two musical worlds: my mother’s midwestern roots of country and pop, and my father and adoptive mother’s love of classic rock, 80s pop, and jazz. While moving around a lot and as a kid, I was always writing songs and emulating the artists I heard. I remember feeling like the singers I listened to were my peers.
Initially, I moved to LA to pursue acting—not music. I think there was a little fear
there. After working in a karaoke bar and gigging around town, I started booking way more as a singer and went with it.
What do you want your music to communicate?
More than anything, I want my music to be authentic. As people we change, go through experiences, and feel a range of things in the process. As long as I’m capturing all of that honestly, I’m pretty open to whatever the message may be.
What are some sources of inspiration for your storytelling?
Up until this point, relationships and love have been my greatest source of inspiration when writing. Anything I feel strongly about can ignite those gears, but I definitely lean heavily into the heartbreak material. I think that will change as I age and grow, perhaps on my next album.
Who is an artist that you look up to more than others today?
That’s such a hard question—so many for different reasons. Miley Cyrus comes to mind because she’s such an unapologetic performer and light. I also love the grit and soul in her voice. Sia because I’m always blown away by her songwriting and the unique textures of her tone. Billie Eilish for her originality… a ton more.
What’s the record or artist that made you realize you wanted to be an artist?
I was lucky in that I always knew I was a singer and that I wanted to pursue it. The artistry came pretty organically as I began writing songs for my voice and as a tool to express myself as a young kid. I definitely have influences, but there was never a “come-to-Jesus” moment or particular artist.
Tell us about your latest single “Slowly” and how it came about.
I started writing “Slowly” in 2019 and then shelved it because I couldn’t quite figure out its voice. I had just professed my feelings to a close friend and was in the period of (torturous) suspense before their response. I remember feeling like I was free-falling, but finding a strange comfort in it because I was still living in the possibility of them feeling the same way. I wasn’t quite ready for a response, and I ended up getting exactly what I asked for in my lyrics: they responded slowly. A year later in fact. We got together, the song found its voice and he ended up producing the track written about him (and killing it). It was a wild full circle experience.
What inspires your sound?
On my upcoming EP in particular, film. I wanted an epic, cinematic production style. I have a guilty pleasure for the dramatic elements I hear in a lot of the music used on movie soundtracks.
What’s a favorite tune of yours?
I have so many! Some that come to mind are: “Crazy” -Willie Nelson, “Creep” -Radiohead, “Let Go” -Frou Frou, “Speechless” -Lady Gaga, “Back to Black” -Amy Winehouse, “Crazy On You” -Heart, “Medicine” -Grace Potter & the Nocturnals, “Ain’t No Sunshine” -Bill Withers, “Titanium” -Sia and “I’ll Be Seeing You” -Billie Holiday.
What are some things you really want to accomplish as an artist?
To have my songs consistently placed in films. That’s when music moves me the most, I want to amplify moments for the audience to really connect with the story.
Favorite lyric you ever wrote?
I’m really proud of “Slowly.” Particularly, “why is it that right before the rise we feel so small?” It articulates something deep and universal, despite its simplicity.
Was there ever a moment when you felt like giving up?
During the pandemic, when work was slow, my therapist (hilariously) mentioned that I may be good at being a therapist. I considered going to school for it. That was short-lived.
I definitely get down and frustrated at times, but I’ve thankfully never considered giving up. At least not seriously.
What is the best advice you’ve ever gotten?
From my Dad. He always tells me to “just keep swimming!” (Yes, he stole it from Finding Nemo). I think it’s crucial to put blinders on sometimes, stay in your own lane and just keep going.
Where do you think the next game changer will be in the music industry and entertainment scene?
I heard a producer mention releasing an album as an NFT… not going to lie I was (and still am) very confused about that. I think in general the music industry is becoming less of an “absolute monarchy–” the artist is a bit more autonomous. Labels are great, but with technology and social media they’re not the only way anymore.
Also, WOMEN. I think a shift for the better will happen as more and more feminine energy is integrated within the traditionally male roles of the industry.
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