Cara Frew living more intentional: Interview

Time melts away when Cara Frew sings. The South African-born singer’s voice gently snakes around lively production and her potent writing gives her work all the more energy.

Armed with an inescapable hit single in Rise. Cara Frew’s music is wrapped in pop vocals and an earthy feel, with organic elements that are driven by acoustic guitar and African drums.

Frew studied at Berklee College of Music and her first single, Falling, released five years ago was produced by The Kiffness.

Frew has also competed at the highest level in the equestrian sport at the World Equestrian Games three times, the first time as a vaulter, and twice as a showjumper.

Impulse Africa Magazine caught up with the multi-talented singer and songwriter as she gears up to release more music for her fans.

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• Briefly tell us about yourself?

I am a South African born singer songwriter, who also loves to ride horses and is fascinated by Psychology! On the music front, I released my debut album through Sony Music Entertainment worldwide, have collaborated with DJ Black Coffee, and performed on some of the biggest stages in the world, including at Coachella Music Festival in California.

I have also competed for South Africa as an Equestrian at the World Equestrian Games three times, have achieved my BSc Honours Degree in Psychology, and will begin my MSc Health Psychology Degree later this year at Kings College London.

Family is central to my life, and I love connecting with people in meaningful ways as my work takes me around the world.

• How would you describe your music sound/genre?

I would describe my music as an emersion of pop vocals and organic elements, with African drums and an earthy feel that is driven by acoustic guitar rhythms.

• How was the journey of finding your core sound and style in the beginning?

I have always been inspired by jazzy toplines and acoustically written melodies, however, I also loved electronic beats.

I initially began my career by collaborating with established artists in the electronic space and performing on the festival circuit before returning to my love of acoustic elements and stripped back production.

• Where do you draw inspiration from as a creator?

I draw inspiration from my everyday life, from the things that I have experienced, from the stories that I have heard and how I feel about these encounters. I use my creativity as a cathartic channel, through which I grow.

• What inspired your previous single Rise was well received, what would you attribute the song success to?

I originally penned RISE with an intended message of hope and strength for survivors of abuse. However, with Covid having brought uncertainty, vulnerability, distress, and the need to evolve into many of our lives, I thought RISE was what the world needed to hear.

The song reflects having the courage to speak out as a form of healing, finding a way to triumph over challenges, and celebrating how we can, and we will RISE again, together.

I think it experienced success due to its authenticity and relatability. In addition, I poured my heart and soul into its creation, and I believe this was what the radio program managers and my fans were drawn to.

ALSO READ: Cara Frew Inspires Hope With Breezy New Anthem Rise

• 2020 was a year like none of us have ever experienced. How did the pandemic change you or influence your decisions going forward?

The pandemic inspired me to not think twice about going after goals I aspire to achieve. It taught me that life can change in an instant and that I only have the here and now to do the best that I can in all aspects of my life.

It also showed me how family, health and happiness must be my priority and building strong relationships with others leads to the most value.

• Did you notice any difference in the way people consume music post lockdown?

I have had much more support than I could have ever imagined. I think my fans were hungry for music and content, as we were all looking for meaning in a confusing world.

• Any upcoming projects you are currently working on? And what can your fans expect this year.

I am currently releasing a series of my favourite four cover songs, which release six weeks apart from each other. On the 14^th of April, I released my rendition of Gnarles Barkley’s “Crazy”, which was the first song of the series.

Next, on the 26^th of May, my take on Amy Winehouse’s “Back to Black” will be available, then Nancy Sinatra’s “Bang Bang”, and finally Duffy’s “Mercy”. In addition, at the end of September, I will share my “Hurricane” EP, which will be comprised of three original songs. 

• How was the experience of performing at Coachella Music Festival?

It was absolutely incredible. It is still one of the best performances I have ever experienced, and it is biggest crowd I have had to date. It is definitely a memory that keeps me motivated when I am feeling disillusioned.

• Balancing music your studies and your other talents how have you been able to juggle everything?

My mum is my secret weapon, she shares in my entire journey, supports me emotionally, manages me logistically, and keeps my feet firmly on the ground while I dream in the stars.

• What are you most grateful for right now?

My family, my health, and my ability to follow my passions and remain positive in an often chaotic and uncertain world.