Amidst the kaleidoscopic changes and pulsating rhythms of the music industry, the soul-stirring essence of music continues to echo unchanging. Today, the industry reverberates with vibrant innovation, boundless creativity, and digital revolutions that have not only redefined the way music is produced but also how it is consumed. In such a dynamic landscape, artists who bring an authentic voice and original talent stand out, carving their own paths through the undulating waves of change.
From the vibrant stages of Lollapalooza in Chicago to the heartwarming melodies of “Barnas Superjul,” Aida Frantzen is a name that resounds with versatility and unparalleled talent. Oslo has gifted the world a prodigious artist who seamlessly melds the realms of choir, television, and mainstream music.
It’s impossible to talk about Aida without mentioning her standout performance with “The Norwegian Girls Choir.” Leading them to resounding victories in national choir competitions, her presence has consistently been a beacon of inspiration. Yet, Aida’s solo endeavors are equally compelling. Her tracks “Talk About What” and “You Need to Leave” didn’t just find a place in listeners’ hearts but also marked prominent playlist inclusions.
A notable chapter in Aida’s illustrious career is her involvement with the trio “Super 3” in the much-celebrated Christmas Television series “Barnas Superjul.” Their album, “Barnas Superjul – Musikken fra Julekalenderen,” didn’t merely resonate with fans – it became a phenomenon, clinching both gold and platinum accolades and earning a Spellemann Award nomination, the zenith of Norwegian music honors.
Likewise, she left an indelible mark at The Writers Block Showcase at Hotel Cafe in Los Angeles, a nexus for industry insiders and budding songwriters alike.
We had the privilege of interviewing this extraordinary artist, diving deeper into her journey and her captivating live performances. Aida’s performances at renowned events and venues such as Lollapalooza Chicago, Washashore, Pride Oslo, Brighton Music Hall, The Peppermint Club, Viper Room, and the Grant Owens showcase “WFNM” demonstrate her stage presence and her remarkable ability to wow audiences. Her musical renditions come alive with catchy hooks, clever lyrics, and glittery performances that resonate with her audience, leaving them in awe of her talent.
From her early career in Norway to her burgeoning success in the global music industry, Aida Frantzen’s journey is an inspiring testament to the transformative power of music. As she continues to break barriers and redefine norms, she illuminates the path for other artists, demonstrating that with passion, authenticity, and resilience, the world truly can be your stage.
Thank you for gracing us with this opportunity, Aida. Can you share with us a memorable experience from your performance at Lollapalooza Chicago? How did it feel to be part of such a renowned music festival?
Where do I even begin, indeed! Seeing my name on a poster alongside some of my musical heroes never loses its charm. Witnessing countless faces sing back my songs and hearing my band and the live arrangements gel so harmoniously – it’s a joy that’s simply out of this world. Just when I thought that was the pinnacle, I was inundated with messages across my social media platforms from people moved by my songs. That connection is what I value most as a writer and artist. Furthermore, having the opportunity to observe and mingle with so many brilliant artists and musicians was tremendously inspiring.
You’ve had the opportunity to perform at diverse events like Washashore, Pride Oslo, and the Grant Owens showcase “WFNM.” How do you adapt your performances to cater to different audiences and atmospheres?
I always strive to align with events and festivals that resonate with the messages inherent in my artistry. When this alignment occurs, I feel that both parties extract the most fulfillment from the experience. Ensuring the music sounds exceptional and the performance is highly interactive with the audience is also crucial to me. Regardless of the setlist, the goal is to make them feel part of the show, as if it touched their lives in some way. My commitment to providing any audience with an unforgettable performance, one that’s worth their time each and every time, is a principle I hold dear.
The Peppermint Club, Viper Room, and Brighton Music Hall are well-known venues. What was it like performing at these iconic locations, and how did the energy of the crowd contribute to your performance?
The experience was truly phenomenal. Playing in venues with such formidable reputations brings immense gratification. But what’s even more rewarding is the palpable energy and enthusiasm from all those who attend the shows – it’s an incomparable feeling. Watching them cheer, dance, and laugh to music that I’ve spent years creating is deeply special. Additionally, the conversations with them after the shows, hearing directly about their experiences, are precious moments that I treasure. This connection is the core reason behind why I do what I do. It infuses my life with an extraordinary amount of warmth and love.
Your performances are known for their catchy hooks, clever lyrics, and glittery stage presence. How do you ensure that your live shows bring out the best in your music and connect with the audience on a deeper level?
I make a conscious effort to share the stories behind the songs, introducing themes that I believe people can relate to. These might encompass experiences like enduring a devastating breakup, growing up queer, feeling different, or navigating through a tough situation and ultimately feeling empowered.
My aim is to ensure they feel acknowledged and heard, both in the music and through my stage interactions. By crafting catchy hooks, I encourage audience members to catch on and sing along, thus becoming part of the performance. All the rhinestones and glitter represent my declaration of fearlessly being oneself and claiming space, irrespective of societal norms. I choose to be big and bold, hoping to inspire anyone watching or listening to do the same!
Can you describe a particular moment during one of your live performances where you felt a strong connection with the audience? How did that influence your performance and overall experience?
I performed a cover of “Landslide” by Stevie Nicks as part of a collaboration with Primary Wave Publishing. The lyrics deeply resonated with me and my family as we were dealing with the loss of my father. I make a point of mentioning this when I perform the song. There were many tears in the audience when I played it live, and I subsequently received messages and had conversations with individuals who, having experienced loss themselves, felt deeply supported and seen during the performance. This connection impacted my performance to such an extent that I almost started crying myself. I will never forget the deep bond that the song helped establish between me and the audience.
Being able to captivate crowds is a remarkable skill. Could you share any strategies or techniques you employ to engage the audience and create an unforgettable experience during your live shows?
I make a concerted effort to elevate songs during live performances, adding a twist to ensure they don’t sound like straight-off-the-record renditions. I always incorporate powerful hits and expansive arrangements to enhance the live experience of hearing the songs. This approach definitely sets the tone right off the bat, making it easier to engage the crowd and encourage their participation in the singing. I often employ tactics such as call-and-response and pose questions to maintain high energy and fun throughout the performance. And, of course, sprinkling a little glitter on myself and the band certainly adds to the spectacle!
As an artist who has performed at various renowned venues, how has your stage presence evolved over the years? What elements do you incorporate to make your performances stand out and leave a lasting impression?
When I was younger, I was definitely more prone to nerves, and I found it easier to lose my focus. Now, however, I use those nerves to intensify my performance and remain super present during each show. I firmly believe that practice leads to improvement, and I make a habit of analyzing my performance the following day, always striving to make the next show even better. I also keep the setlist varied to ensure a fresh experience every time.
Importantly, I strive to keep everything personal and authentically express the sentiments in the songs, as I’m truly pouring my heart out on stage. I want everyone listening and watching to know that. While I’m undoubtedly there to entertain, I also aim to convey the more challenging and heavy emotions that can be difficult to process. I believe it’s important to represent both the highs and lows, as they both contribute to being a complete person!
The Grant Owens showcase “WFNM” had a sold-out crowd. How did it feel to be part of such an event, and how did it impact your career and exposure as an artist?
I had the time of my life! After the show, I was able to connect with numerous incredible artists and we’re already crafting some truly remarkable and heart-wrenching songs set to release in 2023. The show also significantly expanded my audience, and I’m thrilled that so many people resonated with me as an artist after attending the performance. There are a few new events and projects in the pipeline as a result of this show, which I can’t discuss at the moment. However, rest assured, when I can, I’ll be announcing them with all the enthusiasm I can muster!