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Born in Finland, raised in Belgium, and now residing in Sweden, Fredrika’s unique multicultural background has undeniably shaped her musical palette. Being multilingual, Fredrika’s music transcends language barriers, with most of her lyrics being in English rather than her native Swedish. She believes this allows her to authentically connect with a broader audience, emphasizing relatable themes that resonate regardless of geographical boundaries.

In her exclusive interview with us, she opens up about her origins, genre, and the evolution of her sound.

Photo by: Elvira Glänte

How would you define your music?

Gah. That’s so hard haha. It’s like defining yourself. Okay, it’s dramatic, awkward, brave, fun, wise, sexy and spellbinding. It’s music to make you dream, dance in the kitchen or kiss someone. Yup that’s it, nailed it.

Growing up in different countries like Finland and Belgium before settling in Stockholm, how has this multicultural background influenced your music?

Uuuh, love this question. There’s a real mishmash of influences in my head. I grew up in an ex-pat bubble, watching MTV Europe (that was a thing) and music shows on BBC in the 90’s and anything that reminds me of those early musical discoveries feels like home. It makes me want to make music without borders I think, with themes that are relatable no matter where you live. That’s probably also why I prefer to write lyrics in English rather than my native Swedish. It’s just closer to who I am.

Can you tell us about your new single “So It Goes”?

It’s a vibey end-of-summer anthem about finding love in a heat wave, with a hook that makes me want to dance. I love it. It was co-written with Anton Öberg, Calle Mantefors, Adam Dylte and Hampuz Nyström. And there’s a beautiful video out on my youtube, directed by Matilde Feeley.

Photo by: Elvira Glänte

Your recent singles like “Ghost town,” “MAGIC (featuring James Wilson),” and “So It Goes” have showcased an evolution towards an electro pop sound. What prompted this shift, and how do these songs represent your growth as an artist?

This is the kind of music I’ve been wanting to make, but haven’t had the skills to produce before. So my recent singles really represent my growth as a producer. I feel kind of naked letting everyone along on the evolution but I had to start somewhere.

You’re currently working on original music for the play “Nick the Dick,” set to premiere in Stockholm. How does composing music for a play differ from creating standalone singles, and what do you enjoy most about this collaborative process?

The main difference is obviously that the songs for the play tie in to a given storyline. But I’ve really enjoyed writing lyrics that fit the story and the characters. I’ve also loved writing songs in this theatrical style. It’s so freeing cause it can be funny and dramatic and over-the-top all at once.

What is a message you would like to give through your music and why?

I hope I can inspire someone else to do that thing they want to do, even if they feel like there’s a million reasons not to (been there). I’m a better person now that I’m not in a constant state of regret about what I’m not doing. That’s kind of what my song MAGIC is about, there’s magic in creativity and there’s magic in whatever that thing is that you want to do, and you’re allowed to be in it, right? It’s your life.

Write here something you want to let people know.

Don’t ignore your inner voice. Find your magic. Listen to So It Goes. And come dance, kiss or cry at my live show in Stockholm on 7 September. All feelings welcome.

Photo by: Elvira Glänte

Listen to Fredrika Rei’s new single “So It Goes” on our Spotify playlist:

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