By: Josh Kitchen / November 20, 2024
Who is Alex Kolo?
I’d say I’m a very kind-hearted person who feels things deeply, which naturally led me to songwriting. I’ve also had the privilege of growing up with a love for travel since my mom has an international job. Experiencing different cultures and languages really shaped my worldview and, in many ways, my music.
Photo by: Fadwa Ward
Your new EP Maybe One Day has some great tracks. What’s the story behind "Amsterdam"?
"Amsterdam" is part of a trilogy on the EP that reflects my experience with one-sided love. I wrote it after a day with someone I had feelings for in Amsterdam. We had this wonderful time together, but then he mentioned wanting to explore the red-light district in Amsterdam with his friends.
These tracks all seem deeply personal.
"One of These Days," "Amsterdam," and "I’m Sorry I Love You"—are all about that one-sided love story. Another track, "In Circles," came from a completely different experience. It’s about the anxiety I felt during a gap year in Germany when I was trying to learn the language and make friends. It was a tough adjustment, but that vulnerability inspired the song.
Your is very relatable. Is that something you aim for?
Definitely. Writing music is my way of processing difficult experiences, and I hope that by sharing those moments, I can help others feel less alone.
Do you have a favorite live music memory?
Absolutely. When I was 15, I convinced my mom to take a train to Belgium to see one of my favorite artists perform at a festival. It was magical—even though I didn’t know anyone there or speak their language, the music created this incredible bond. It felt like I made friends just through that shared experience.
Who are some of your biggest influences?
Alice Merton, without a doubt. Her music is so authentic and not crafted to fit industry expectations, which inspires me to stay true to myself. Her vulnerability and unique songwriting are qualities I admire deeply.
Do you think about how your music might inspire others the same way Alice Merton has inspired you?
That’s one of my biggest goals. I want to raise awareness about mental health through my music. For example, I’ve scratched the surface with "In Circles," but I want to go even deeper as I continue to grow as an artist.
Above: Alex Kolo with Alice Merton
What’s next for you?
I’m excited about what’s ahead! In January, I’ll start doing small performances in Nashville. I’m also releasing a song in May for Mental Health Awareness Month, and I’m working toward releasing an album by the end of 2025.
What do you hope people take away from your music?
I want people to know it’s okay to be themselves. Vulnerability is a strength, and you don’t need to hide what you’re going through. That’s something I hope my music can help convey.
Follow Alex Kolo here and listen to her debut EP Maybe One Day below:
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