Toronto, ON-based pop-soul and trap-R&B artist Olenka has unveiled her new single, “Purple Rose”.
“I recorded this single a while back, and it easily became my baby,” the Toronto-based singer/songwriter confides. “It was written about a relationship I had in the past; sometimes you meet someone who just inspires a sound…”
For “Purple Rose,” that’s an experimental word-play vibe and a lush video to match; there’s also a behind-the-scenes documentary detailing its making in the works.
The track eschews many of the traditional norms found in the pop genre — and quite deliberately, at that. “I have a very particular taste in music, but I’m also open-minded,” Olenka explains. “I would say I’m influenced by all music — everything from radio hits, to rock and grunge. I listen to a lot of random music by underground artists, too, but I’ve always been determined to go down my own path.
“Ultimately, my music suits my soul and persona, and reflects who I am as a passionate, personal, and emotional person.”
Check out the music video for “Purple Rose” below, and find out more about Olenka via our mini-interview.
First off, care to introduce yourself to our readers?
My name is Olenka, I’m a pop/soul and R&B artist and recently moved to the big city, Toronto. Graduating from ‘Music Industry Arts’ at Fanshawe college, I took my knowledge of production & sound engineering and implement this in creative manners. I took the program to speak the language of the producer, which had lead to my presence in co-production.
Tell us about the recording process behind “Purple Rose”?
At the time, I was in a long distance relationship. My producer Aftrparty and I began coming up with a few sounds that inspired me to write about the emotions my partner at the time brought me, he inspired a sound and it very quickly bloomed into one of my favorite tracks.
What was the highlight of 2020?
2020 gave me time to officially film my music video for the song with the amazing videographer Alex Gayoso.
What do you hope to accomplish in your career in 2021?
I’m hoping COVID precautions lift and it becomes safe enough for me to drop an EP this year and host a release party, bringing other artists together and enjoying a night of music.
Is there anyone out there you’d like to collaborate with in the future?
I would LOVE to collaborate with artist Notifi, he’s a fellow Toronto artist who I have been listening to for some time. His music is so beautiful followed with poetic lyrics. He manages to have meaningful messages with catchy melodies and hooks.