Rising Star: Frankmusik
Meet Britain’s synth-pop wunderkind
These days, it’s rare for stars to write, record and perform all their own material.The landscape is littered with Svengalis churning out chart hits-by-numbers for their protégés.
So it’s good news, then, that Croydon-born Frankmusik is making waves with his debut album Complete Me, which he’s written, produced and provided the vocals for, all by himself.
“I always had love for music – my mum made sure of that by putting me in piano lessons and in the choir,” says the 24-year-old Londoner.
Vincent James Frank has crafted an album of 1980s-inspired electro-pop with big synths and strong melodies.
“I like the ’80s because it was an era of excitement – there was such a strong identity and there were lots of people getting behind all the subgenres. I also love electronics, and it was a great era for experimentation and listening to electronic music. I call my production ‘Bladerunner pop’ – it’s futuristic but old at the same time.”
Frank’s journey has been a brave one. He took a leap of faith and dropped out of the prestigious London College of Fashion two years ago to pursue his music career full time.
“I didn’t know what I was going to do but I did know that I was unemployed and I’d completely ruined any prospects I initially had. It was very scary but I’m now landing on my feet,” he says.
His major-label release has already garnered rave reviews from tastemakers heralding its honesty and confidence. It has a fresh look, too, as Frank’s eye for fashion means he’s created a very distinct brand for himself. It looks like he’s pushing all the right buttons.
Frankmusik plays live on 4 July at The Wireless Festival, Hyde Park, London, www.wirelessfestival.co.uk. Complete Me is out 13 July
