By: Shayla Lee
Although pop music is one of my favorite genres of music, I often find it hard to connect with it on a deeper level aside from jamming to it in the car. If I can find a song that is both catchy and has meaningful lyrics, I’m one happy lady. Swedish musician Cazzi Opeia did exactly that with her new single ‘Rich.’
The track is a glittery bop and will leave you feeling inspired to express gratitude in your life. Combining synths, soaring vocals, and funky beats, Cazzi created the track after wanting to show how the friends and family in her life make her feel rich. In a world where materialism often takes the forefront, it’s refreshing to see an artist create a song that reminds us that there is more to life beyond money.
We chatted with Cazzi about her track ‘Rich,’ songwriting for K-Pop acts Red Velvet and TWICE, and what we can expect from her upcoming music.
Femme Riot: Can you tell us a bit about yourself and what inspired you to become a musician?
Cazzi Opeia: I am an artist and songwriter from Sweden and I began singing and writing music at an early age. My inspiration to become a musician has come from those around me and my life experiences. Through that I have gained inspiration from many places, my childhood, my family and friends and of course my vast and never-ending love for music.
How would you describe your music to someone who hasn’t heard it before?
I would say it’s a great variety of pop music.
You have seen major success songwriting for other musicians, specifically in Korea with K-pop acts Red Velvet and TWICE. How does the songwriting experience differ when it’s with other artists compared to when you’re writing music for yourself?
I always aim to write a good song, the best it can be, regardless of if it’s for me or someone else. Although when I’m writing songs for myself I think I might get a little more personal, zoning in on lyrics that work for me and my life experiences.
I’m loving your new single ‘Rich!’ Not only is it super catchy, the lyrics are also extremely relatable to my own life. Can you tell us more about the inspiration behind this track?
Thank you so much, I’m so glad you like it!! I wanted to write a song that radiated good vibes and told a story about how lucky I am in life! I have an amazing family and so many great friends around me that I love and love me back, I would take a bullet for them at any time. I am extremely grateful for everyone and everything in my life and that’s being ‘Rich’ if you ask me, I’m rich in love!
‘Rich’ addresses being fulfilled in other ways other than being rich with money. In a money-hungry society, being able to live a life that places love in the forefront of wealth is difficult for many. In what ways do you feel “rich” in your own life?
I feel very rich every time I talk with my mom, every time I hang out with my siblings or every time I get a kiss and hug from my boyfriend.
Mental health is something that is really important to us at Femme Riot and we love hearing about how others maintain balance in their lives. As a busy musician, what practices do you implement to ensure your health and well-being are taken care of?
I make sure to take the time to be alone and listen to my own thoughts, what I like and what I don’t like. I think that’s very important, especially with lots of people around you and a hectic schedule, it’s vital to take time for yourself.
Have you faced any challenges being a woman in the music industry? If so, how did you overcome the adversity and do you have any advice for other women facing challenges?
It’s a male-dominated industry for sure but I think that’s about to change! I’m always meeting so many cool and talented women in the music business with strong opinions and attitude, and I couldn’t be prouder to be a woman. Be proud and don’t take any shit!
What can fans expect from your upcoming music?
I’m really hoping everyone like’s and listen to RICH, because right now me and my label are giving that song 100% of our energy and love. And of course, my releases before that “Wild Ones” and “Batman & Robin” are two favorites of mine. I’m so excited to be able to say that the new music I’ve been working on will come at the beginning of 2019.
For a behind-the-scenes look at Cazzi’s life, you can follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. Check out her rainbow-hued lyric video for ‘Rich’ and check out the rest of her collection on Spotify below!
The cover photo was shot by Elin Strömberg.
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