For 18-year-old singer-songwriter, Zola Simone, music is much more than just a passion; it’s a way to make sense of the world and move through the ever-changing conditions of life. Her unique and refreshing sound that blends indie, pop, and R&B matched with her raw, vulnerable, and honest lyrics is what sets her apart from many of her peers. Zola is gearing up for a phenomenal year with new singles and an album, Now You See Me, set to drop later this year.
How would you describe the highs and lows of being an artist?
One low about being an artist is when you accomplish something unique, the bar is set there, and everything from that moment doesn’t feel like an accomplishment unless it’s greater than the one before. A high is when you carry out the vision you had for something, something that was just an idea or a goal, and now it’s reality. When everything aligns like that, it’s the most amazing feeling.
What’s a musical guilty pleasure of yours?
Sometimes when I’m really angry or really anxious, I listen to scream-rap, $uicideboy$, Jasiah, City Morgue. Most of the lyrics are misogynistic and go against most of what I believe in, but when I’m angry, all that kind of flies out the door.
Who is an artist you admire more than others?
The artist I look up to the most is definitely Jon Bellion. He’s a visionary, a Jack of all trades, and I look up to him more than any other artist. He’s so passionate about his music, and that’s something I can relate to and celebrate. Seeing him make music and seeing him perform is like a master class; it just fills me with so much joy and respect.
Tell us about your latest release and how it came about.
My latest release, “Iridescent,” was very much spontaneous. It came about so naturally, and the response has been really positive, which I’m so happy about since it’s nothing like anything I’ve made before. I wrote it the morning before a studio session and then went in and recorded it. The meaning of Now You See Me lies in the title itself. It’s about me finally maturing, growing up, and putting my whole true self out there for the world to see, and most importantly, not caring about how that’s perceived. It’s about just being.
What inspires your visuals, videos, looks, etc.?
Clairo, beabadobee, Isaac Dunbar, and Jon Bellion.
What are the most embarrassing memories and the proudest moments of your career so far?
The most embarrassing memory was when I was performing the national anthem at a college basketball game. I got to “the rockets red glare” and completely choked; it was horrifying. I performed it again at a roller derby game, though, and killed it, so I suppose it was okay in the end. My most proud moment is finishing this album. Seeing it all come together and hearing it for the first time was amazing.
What is the best advice you’ve ever gotten?
One day at a time.
Where do you think the music and entertainment industry is headed after this past year?
I think it’s going to be a lot more accessible now, having shows online as well as in person. Still, obviously, the pandemic took a huge toll on independent music venues and was a tough year for the entertainment industry all along. Like most things, there’s good and bad, but I think once it recovers, it’ll be stronger than ever.
