Noé Solange
London-based singer/songwriter Noé Solange unveiled her debut single “Running Away” on May 10th.
Written by Noé Solange herself, the ambient electro single is about the complexity of a toxic relationship.
“It describes the difficulty of leaving someone who you know isn’t good for you, yet who you are still in love or infatuated with. With the repetition of “running away” throughout the song, I aimed to express the struggle of escaping,” explains Solange.
The singer/songwriter was featured on house tracks “Go Till Light” with Tewax and “Dancing With You (Baby)” with Juice OB.
In addition to her work in the music industry, Solange is also a professional photographer.
“Running Away” is now available worldwide.
Photo credit: Iona Taberham
Introduce yourself - where are you from?
Hi, my name is Noé Solange. I am Dutch, Czech, Indonesian and Surinamese and currently live in London.
What's your story?
I’m what people would term a ‘Third Culture Kid’. I grew up around the world, having lived in 8 countries before moving to London.
I technically don’t consider any country to specifically be my ‘home’. As I would constantly have to say goodbye to everything and everyone I became acquainted with, music was (and still is) the one thing that I could bring with me that gave me a sense of familiarity. Prior to London, I went to university in the Midlands. On the side of getting a Sociology degree and a Masters, I worked on music and was featured in tracks signed by LoveStyle Records, Teoria Do Groove Records and Night Shift Sound.
After university, I decided to take a chance and move to London to do what makes me happiest – photography and making music. I have been recording and writing nonstop, as well as working as a photographer on the side of my 9-5 job - cause a girl’s gotta pay rent!
How would you describe yourself today?
I’m a very curious person. I thrive off of uncertainty – it makes life more interesting!
When did your love for art and music begin?
From a very young age! I was always actively involved in music, being in choirs and bands and playing piano, guitar and violin. I was lucky to grow up in a family who appreciated the arts. My dad would always have music playing in the house, which varied from David Bowie to Ryuichi Sakamoto to Miles Davis!
When did you start writing songs?
I started writing songs when I was 16, however I never shared them with anyone. Looking back, I’m happy I didn’t show anyone because they were really cringe! For me, writing music was the easiest way to express myself and it still is now!
When did you decide to pursue music as a career? What did your friends and family think of it?
When I moved to London because the city has such an incredible and varied music scene. Being surrounded by so many talented musicians is so motivating and it’s constantly driving me to follow my passion. I’m also learning a lot about the industry whilst doing so!
Both my family and friends are so supportive, which I am so grateful for. I think a support system is very important, especially when working in the creative industry, as it can be very disheartening and challenging.
"Running Away" is your debut single. What's the story behind this song?
The song details the complexity of a toxic relationship. It describes the difficulty of leaving someone who you know isn’t good for you, yet who you are still in love or infatuated with. With the repetition of “running away” throughout the song, I aimed to express the struggle of escaping.
I like to write songs that can be related to in different ways. In this case, the song can be perceived to be about a toxic relationship, friendship or possibly a negative state of mind that you are trying to break free from.
When did you start working on it? Who did you work with?
I wrote the song in early 2018. I worked on the instrumental with Maxi Million, a brilliant musician. The track was then mixed and mastered by the talented Jose Manuel Cubides.
How does it feel to release your first single?
It’s still so crazy to me! I feel so grateful to be able to showcase my art.
What is your goal for this first single?
I hope the words and the music send a powerful message and evoke emotions in listeners. I also want ‘Running Away’ to help people who resonate with the song, but who can’t quite articulate their emotions, feel more understood.
You are also a photographer. What appeals to you the most about photography?
Every single image tells a story that then lasts forever. I believe photographs are like music in that they have the power to evoke emotions and challenge you to go beyond one single perspective.
What advice would you give to young photographers?
There is no one way to photograph – experimentation is key! Go out and take as many photos as you can to try and find your own unique style.
What message do you want to convey through your art?
With regards to photography, there isn’t one specific message I want to communicate. Portraits can receive totally different responses to the landscapes I’ve shot. I want to entice the viewer and show them the world through my eyes.
Who are your current favourite artists?
Some of my favourite photographers are Michael Yamashita, Anton Corbijn and Jessica Kobeissi.
In regards to music, I am currently loving Catching Flies, Bonobo and FKJ!
Where do you get your inspiration from?
I think inspiration comes from everywhere - from everyone around you and from within. I can’t really control when or what I am inspired by. It’s often at the most unexpected time or place that inspiration hits.
What does music make you feel?
There’s an infinity of different ways music can make me feel. I think it depends on elements within the song, how it was produced, how it’s performed and where I am when listening to it.
How do you want to be remembered?
I want to inspire people to follow their passion and do what makes them happy, even if you know the journey is going to be challenging.
My main goal is to send a message through my lyrics and music. I am currently working on tracks that embrace experimentation and different types of sound. I hope people will notice this and realise that there isn’t one specific way to make music. What someone may find weird or unsettling can become an artist’s unique signature.
In your opinion, what would make the world a better place?
Empathy, support and generosity. We need to be more considerate and share with others without expecting anything in return. We also need to live in a more cosmopolitan society, embracing diversity, as that’s what makes the world unique.
And treat mother nature kindly!
What biggest life lesson have you learned so far?
Don’t let anyone rush you with their timeline. There is no set of guidelines on what to do in life and when to do things by.
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