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.
At such a young age, Zola has already learned the importance of her individuality. She is not afraid to unapologetically express herself as an artist through her music and her aesthetic. Zola’s music manages to traverse the challenging terrain of being both deeply personal and undeniably relatable.
Hailing from Boston, Zola Simone has built a fanbase around the New England area and has already sold out her first concert as a headliner. With collaborators such as three-time Boston Music Awards “Producer of The Year,” The Arcitype, Zola continues to evolve her sound and produce music that refreshes the industry.
Tell us about the genesis of your new album Now You See Me.
Now You See Me is about acceptance, and identity. It’s about being okay with who you are and not caring what other people think.
What were some sources of inspiration for your lyrics and storytelling for the album?
The last 4 years, mainly my whole high school experience; my friendships, relationships, identity, mental health.
Who are your top 3 dream collabs?
Jon Bellion, Isaac Dunbar, Kehlani
Your style is very original and elaborate. How do you take care of your aesthetics?
Thank you! I don’t really put that much thought into my aesthetic honestly – but one of my goals in the future is to create a more well rounded aesthetic. I just need to find time to sit down and curate that.
What was the most memorable part of making your album?
Definitely when I found out “Easy” was going to be on Atypical! I was at a thrift store with my girlfriend and I got the message and I screamed so loud that everyone in the store stopped to stare at me, it was one of the best moments.
What is your favorite song off your album?
Top 3 – “Sideways,” “Love Me Right,” and “Easy”
Tell us about the inspiration of the “Sideways” music video and how it came about?
Honestly it was my mom’s idea, she came up with the whole photo aspect of the video, and then Gabe the director came up with the tv idea, and the rest we all just collaborated on, pretty much. My mom is a photojournalist and all of the photos were either taken by her or a friend of hers.
You seem to be fusing several musical genres. What inspires your sound?
I have very eclectic taste in music and listen to so many different genres. I love 80’s music like the cure, rock music like Joan Jett, hip hop like Vince Staples, indie pop like Clairo, beabadoobee, for example.
