Before she had recorded a note of her debut album, Lolene had already chosen its inspired title: The Electrick Hotel. “I call it The Electrick Hotel because when you put the album on, you’re my guest. I’m going to take care of you,” says the British singer, songwriter, and performer. “You’re invited to come and stay a while in my world, which I see as like a hotel where each song is a room that captures a different part of my personality and expresses different emotions. So if you’re feeling happy, you can go to the penthouse and dance to ‘Sexy People.’ If you’re heartbroken, you can visit the first-floor and have a cry to ‘Beautiful Disaster.’”
Lolene began writing songs and singing backing vocals for trip-hop artist Martina Topley-Bird (known for her work with Tricky) and local drum-and-bass pioneer Roni Size. After completing school, she moved to London and fronted an all-girl pop vocal group signed to a development deal at BMG Records. She wrote all the group’s material and realized she had a knack for writing melodies and lyrics.
It was during this time in London that Lolene acquired her nickname “Miss Foo Foo,” bestowed on her by a friend who watched Lolene drool over expensive items she couldn’t afford as the two window-shopped on London’s swanky Kings Road. “’Miss Foo Foo’ is the name of my company as well as my naughty alter ego,” Lolene says. “She’s the heightened, fabulous, eccentric part of my personality — the girl who wants it all right now. She lives in a world of heartbreak and handbags. She’s a chaser of dreams.” Miss Foo Foo is boujis (a British expression meaning to be fancy or posh) — the type who hangs out in London’s chic, ultra-private nightclubs.
Glam as it may have been, the London scene wasn’t enough to contain someone as driven as Lolene. Armed with nothing but a suitcase and a demo CD, she moved to Hollywood in search of her big break. Based on Lolene’s songwriting talent, multi-platinum producer Jonathan “J.R.” Rotem signed her to his publishing label Beluga Heights/Sony ATV. She went to work collaborating with such heavy-hitters as Andreas Carlsson (Backstreet Boys, ’N Sync, Celine Dion), Christopher Rojas (Pink, Backstreet Boys, Joss Stone), Makeba Riddick (Jennifer Lopez, Rihanna, Beyonce), Evan Bogart (The Writing Camp), Danja (Britney Spears, Nelly Furtado, Timbaland), Harvey Mason Jr. (Underdogs), and Christina Milian, for whom Lolene penned the single “Diamonds” featuring Kanye West.
Recently, I had the chance to ask Lolene about things such as her music, goals, and musical inspirations. You can read about it below.
When did you first realize you had an interest in music and what sparked that interest?
I went to my first dance class at age 2 and since then I have been dancing, singing and performing in some way or another. I specifically remember listening to Mariah Carey and Kylie Minogue in my bedroom and realizing that this is what I wanted to do.
How did you break into the music industry?
I broke in through the back window, turned the nob and ran up the stairs! But seriously, I got my break through song-writing.
How would you describe the sound of your music, and what makes you feel like your album is different from the other artists in your genre?
I would describe my music as awkward universal pop. I make music to uplift and inspire people in some way. So there is definitely positive elements to my music. It’s also very electrosexual! But I don’t feel I’m in a position to describe how my music differs. I leave that to the good ears of my listeners.
What are some of your plans for promoting your album – do you plan on doing some touring?
Absolutely, I love to perform live, so you will definitely be catching me at a venue near you. I plan on being everywhere, including under your bed.
Musically speaking, what are some of your short term and long term goals you have lined out for yourself? What are your hopes for the upcoming year?
Universal pop domination and to continue making great music for the most amazing fans in the world.
Lyrically speaking, where do your song inspirations come from? Is it easy for you to sit down and write lyrics, or is it a bit of a challenge sometimes?
Writing lyrics comes naturally to me. i started as a poet and this is a gift I’ve been blessed with. I am truly inspired by tragedy and triumph and everything in between, I could literally write a song about anything, and I am really thankful for this gift.
Who are some of your musical interests and influences?
I am hugely influenced by Madonna, Kate Bush and Rick James. They are true showmen and entertainers. I also love Joan Collins and Cher. I really like music from the 90′s.
Who are some artists you’d like to work with?
Without a doubt Kate Bush. I would also really like to collaborate with Blondie, Ace of Base, Empire of the Sun and Prince.
What is the experience like to be out somewhere and be recognized by a fan?
It’s all still very new to me and I have to admit the first time did trip me out for a good minute. This is because you are in your own private world of creation for so long, like the studio or rehearsal room and so you forget there is a world out there sometimes. It can catch you off guard for sure. But I appreciate it and understand this is something I signed up for.
Besides music, what are some of your other interests and hobbies?
Food, I love to cook and eat. I am a total spa enthusiast also. And of course, cocktail mixologist!
