Olivia Cox has always been known for her unique blend of alt-pop and mainstream sensibilities, but with her latest single, “Paris,” she takes a bold step forward in her musical journey. In this exclusive interview with Urbanista Magazine, Olivia shares the inspiration behind her fresh sound, the creative process that shaped the track, and how she is pushing the boundaries of her artistry. From experimenting with rap to drawing inspiration from artists like Camila Cabello and Addison Rae, Olivia reveals how “Paris” reflects her growth as a songwriter and her unwavering commitment to staying true to her vision. She opens up about the personal nature of the song, the freedom of being an independent artist, and the exciting road ahead in 2025.
What inspired you to experiment with a new sound in your latest single, “Paris”, and how does it differ from your previous work?
I think the track itself inspired me. Also, the music I was listening to at the time. I wanted to completely use my instruments, aka my vocals, to their full potential and add in as many layers and avenues to the song as I could. It differs from my previous work in a lot of ways, but the main way I’d say it is the fact that I almost rap a little bit. This is something I never saw myself doing, but for this particular track itself sounds and fits really well.
Can you tell us more about the creative process behind “Paris” and how your producers, Aaron Brennan and Daniel Seacroft, helped shape the track?
Aaron Brennan was the mind behind the track. He produced it. Once I heard it, I was inspired right away. Daniel Seacroft was super encouraging when I was recording because, like I said, I tried rapping for the first time, and he completely hyped me and gave me a few ideas. The three of us together were a dream team on this track.
You mentioned being influenced by Camila Cabello’s “C,XOXO Magic City Edition” and Addison Rae’s “Diet Pepsi”. How did these songs inspire you, and what did you take away from them for “Paris”?
The fact that they all have so many layers and ad-libs and certain little moments that you might not catch the first time you listen to the song. I love that about these pieces of art. I couldn’t get enough of them because I kept hearing new parts each time I listened. I wanted to create the same listening experience for my listeners.
You’re known for blending alt-pop with mainstream pop. How do you balance these two styles, and what do you think makes “Paris” stand out in your discography?
I try not to focus so hard on fitting a genre, but rather just by creating what I think is cool and sounds good, something I’d want to listen to. I think “Paris” stands out because it’s the first time I’d really fully experimented and pushed the boat out during the creation of the song.
What do you hope listeners take away from “Paris” after hearing it for the first time?
I hope that it’s something they’ve never heard before, I hope it takes them on a journey, and I hope they hit rewind as soon as it’s over. When I first made “Paris” I couldn’t get enough of it; it was addictive, so I hope they feel the same way, and judging on the song’s response, I think they do!
You’ve described “Paris” as “a lover girl journey”. Can you elaborate on what you mean by that, and how the song tells a story?
It basically means you put you and your best friends in a room and tell them all about your first date. The song is very conversational, or as I’ve described before, like a page from a diary. It’s very personal and hooks with the story line. I’m pretty sure even tho it talks about meeting someone in Paris, that aside most people will be able to relate to that first-date feeling.
How does “Paris” reflect your growth as a songwriter, and what new techniques or approaches did you try out in this track?
It shows my growth as a songwriter in the way that I’m not afraid to try new techniques or be different. Before, I’d be more focused on making sure the song was a “hit” but now, if I think it’s catchy and I believe in it, then that’s all that matters to me. I know that someone out there will be able to relate to what I’m saying because, as humans, we often go through a lot of the same experiences.
The new techniques would definitely be rapping, a lot more adlibs and “talking style” lines as opposed to singing the whole song. I also ended the song differently than I’ve ever ended a song before. There is a lot of ‘news’ in “Paris” and I love that.
Your previous singles, like “23” and “Stupid Love”, were huge hits. Did you feel any pressure to follow up with another catchy single, or did you want to try something different?
Thank you. I guess there’s always pressure to continue to deliver, but the truth is that you never know how a song is going to be received until it’s out in the world. So this is why I just have to trust my gut and believe in what I’m doing. Every time I write a new song, it turns out to be something completely new and different to the last song. I never compare my music. I only want to make sure that the standard is always the same, if not higher each time.
What’s the most exciting part of being an independent artist, and how do you think this freedom allows you to take risks in your music?
Definitely being able to release what I want when I want to. I can’t imagine being an artist who isn’t always allowed to express their art. Obviously the backing and support that you get from a label can make your career skyrocket, but I’m happy to stay true to myself even if it takes a bit longer to get there.
What’s next for you in 2025, and can fans expect more new music or touring announcements soon?
I want to continue this journey in 2025 and make it even bigger! I will play new music as often as I can get it out to people. I’m constantly working and writing, so I’m super excited to share everything I’ve been working on, especially with “Paris” being the first track of 2025 and it’s being received extremely well.
