Songwriting takes sixteen-year-old Sophie Rose (SR) to another world. It creates a space that she can express herself in and it is an art form she can connect to others with. She is unlike most young songwriters, though, because rather than scribing down her ideas in a diary, she is busy at work in the center of the music industry. Sophie Rose has already written well over 250 songs for herself and other artists, working with leading industry professionals like Ester Dean and Dr. Luke. The music she creates is infectious, containing danceable rhythms and dark, experimental lyrical content. With her creativity, songwriting prowess, and ambitious drive, it is quite possible that Sophie Rose could be the artist that gives pop music genuine meaning again.
Was there any specific moment in your life that it clicked that you knew you wanted to go into songwriting and performing?
SR – I’ve been singing since before I could talk, and for as long as I can remember I’ve wanted to be a pop star. I started writing songs when I was nine years old, and that’s when I really started working hard to make my dream a reality.
What sort of creative space does song writing provide for you?
SR – I feel like I can say anything in a song, especially when I’m writing for someone else. I like to write without limits and just go with what feels good. Whether the song turns out to be pop, vibey, rhythmic or disco, as long as it sounds fresh and makes you feel something, that’s magic.
With the increasing amount of song writing that you have been doing, where have you found yourself drawing creativity from?
SR – My writing environment influences me a lot. Also, co-writing is a great source of new ideas and creative energy. When I connect with someone on a creative level, it makes the writing process incredible.
You said that your goal for every song you write is that it resonates with someone. What do you do to make this possible?
SR – I like to write about things that I feel and experience. If I connect with a song, I know listeners going through the same experience will connect with it as well. The most beautiful thing about pop music to me is writing a song that people can sing along and dance to that also has meaning. So many pop songs today are catchy melodies with filler lyrics. I’m all about mixing infectious melodies with lyrics that will move people.
You got signed through such an insane process and have already worked with such notable people. In what ways does life feel surreal?
SR – It still feels insane to be in the position I’m in, but I’ve worked really hard to get where I am today. I try to study the careers of the people I look up to and learn as much as I can from everyone I work with. Long lasting careers are not accidental, so I work hard to create as many opportunities as I can for success.
What still feels surreal to me is writing with Ester. She is the most incredible songwriter I’ve ever worked with, and watching her create in her element is amazing. What is it like writing songs for other people? Do you feel detached from the art you create for other artists, or does it still feel just as personal?
SR – I hardly ever go into writing process knowing if the song will be for myself or another artist, so I mostly draw from my own feelings and experiences. Every song is different; some are very personal and some are general themes that anyone could sing. I just always try to write the best song I can in the moment.
You have done so much already and you are only sixteen. Has there been a moment thus far in your career that stood out to you as especially reassuring that you are on the right track to success?
SR – I think the moment that stands out the most is the day I met with Luke and Ester to talk about signing to their joint venture. The fact that two of the most successful creators of pop music believed in me and wanted me on their team was a game changer for me and definitely validated my work.
There are so many young female singer/songwriters like yourself, what about your vision makes you unique?
SR – I believe what separates me from other girls my age is my songwriting and my work ethic. I know that the songs I write are great and can potentially be hits someday, and I’m working every day to hone my craft and become the top songwriter in pop music. I am only sixteen, but I’ve been writing for over six years now and am always trying to transcend my previous work. I take my career very seriously, and I know I can achieve my goals if I work hard and build the right team.
Do you feel as if you are leaving behind a “normal” teen-hood to pursue your career?
SR – No. I’ve never been a normal kid. I’ve never really cared to be around other kids my age, haha! All I’ve ever wanted to do was make music, and now I’m living my dream. Most of my friends now are songwriters, and it’s amazing to have people around who understand me. It’s hard for me to make conversation with normal teenagers because my whole life is music. I’m more comfortable talking to strangers in the music business who understand what I do than kids in my neighborhood I’ve known since I was born.
“Voices” in a way explores internal fears. What are your fears going into such a challenging industry like the music industry as a young woman? Have you faced any challenges thus far?
SR – A lot of people have told me to stay away from the music industry, but this is what I was put on this earth to do. When you think about it, this business is just as challenging to break into than any other lucrative industry. I don’t really have any fears going into this business, because I’m in a position right now where I can make my own decisions. I will always be in control of my artistry, and I will never sign that power away. I have definitely faced challenges over the years, but it’s good to live and learn. Also, it’s important to have a good attorney on your team, haha! Your music tackles very seductive, dark psychological content like that of “Attention” and “Voices”.
What draws your to write songs like these?
SR – I’m very fascinated by darkness. I love watching crime T.V. shows and listening to dark music. I also took a college psychology class last year, and that inspired me to write a lot of evil songs. I’m a generally happy and colorful person, but I like having a dark side.
You work with a number of charitable organizations. Why do you think it is important to give back with the place of privilege you are in?
SR – I’m very fortunate to live such a blessed life. My parents have raised me to be grateful for all that I have and to give back to people who are less fortunate. There is so much healing to be done in the world, and I try my best to help as much as I can.
What is something you would like your fans to know about you that they might not already?
SR – I may have said this before, but I LOVE the ocean. I have been obsessed with the world down there my whole life. I’m also a certified scuba diver.
What are your hopes going forward?
SR – My biggest hope is that someday I can change the world through music. As I said before, giving back is extremely important to me, so I hope someday I will be in a position where I can make a difference through my art.
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