Words by Art Jefferson
Photography by Romain Yurkievich and Kristin Cofer
It’s almost unfair when you think about the blessed attributes that some people have. When referencing Cocovan, certain qualities and characteristics are blatantly evident – insanely talented as a music artist (which includes production and vocals), a natural flair for fashion and a striking beauty that can instantly grab the attention of everyone in a room. Her sound is described as glam pop, which is accurately fitting. In a sense, it is a soundtrack to all things beautiful.
Hailing from Paris, Cocovan is a multi-instrumentalist whose sound is a whirlwind of synthpop, 80s club and sexy electro. Whilst one could assume that her music is an extenstion of growing up in “The City of Light”, Cocovan’s vibrant palette is painted with patterns that extend beyond the region, country and continent for that fact. Having spent continous stints living in Los Angeles and New York, her record ‘Mirage Of Us’ was a glistening pop sliding that would make anyone dream of sun, fun, swimming pools, love and desire. Her travels and keen eye for style have also brought her in front of the lens of world-renowned fashion photographer Ellen von Unwerth. Again, the synonym glamourous should be a pinning to Cocovan.
Cocovan’s latest recording ‘Chic (Someone To Love)’ is another pop anthem for the sexy even with its addressing of hope for the brokenhearted. Not only producing the single, she also directed the video in London. It’s already clear that the track will be an anthem for the summer. Call it a musical spell but her recordings allow for break-ups, make-ups and all in-between to be the best feeling ever.
Where did the musical journey begin for you?
Cocovan – The musical journey began in Paris, my hometown.
People should also know that you produce your music as well. When did you first delve into production?
Cocovan – I got into production thanks to my ex boyfriend, an amazing musician and producer. We were recording my early demos together. He was really passionate about producing and all things nerdy, so one day I decided to try it myself. That was 10 years ago. I’m talking ProTools 6.7, Digi 002, and programming in Reason. It since became one of my favourite parts of the process. I think the musical landscape needs more female producers too.
Having followed you for a while now, your sound has developed into a lush and sexy style of glam pop. When you first began recording material early on, did you already know the direction that you wanted the sound to go or did that formulate throughout the years?
Cocovan – My first demos were super acoustic, very stripped down, light beat. I experimented with “folktronica” for a bit, and it slowly evolved towards a more electronic sound. Producing involves a lot of exploring, a lot of “trying things that don’t work”, and eventually you figure out what feels right.
Although you grew up in Paris, you have also lived in Los Angeles for a bit. How did living abroad play a factor in the way that you create music?
Cocovan – I enjoy recording on a mobile set up. I’m very nomadic and it’s the way I’ve always done it. I like it because when I listen to my tracks, I’m like “Oh I came up with that bridge in my Brooklyn bedroom! Oh that synth part reminds me of my summer in LA” – The songs are the soundtrack to my life and memories.
The first word that immediately comes to my mind when describing you is chic. You have always been quite the fashionable person. How would you describe your personal style?
Cocovan – Thank you! I don’t know how to describe my style. It’s a lot of black bodysuits, mixed with vintage designer pieces that I collect. I wear a lot of black. If I had my way, I’d dress in a catsuit everyday. I love catsuits.
You had the opportunity to shoot with legendary fashion photographer Ellen von Unwerth. How was that experience?
Cocovan – It was unbelievable. We shot at my friend (and amazing artist) Love Bailey’s ranch in California, “The Savage Ranch” alongside other artists such as the brilliant Millie Brown or Signe Pierce. It was such an honour to be part of that shoot. The pictures were exhibited during Art Basel in Miami last December.
Your track ‘Chic (Someone To Love)’ is a great summer cut. Can you talk about the track for a bit?
Cocovan – Thank you! “Chic (Someone To Love)” is an optimistic love song. It’s about being confident that one day you will find that special person you’ve been waiting to meet all your life, regardless of how many times you’ve been heartbroken or disappointed in love…
What do you have planned for the summer?
Cocovan – I’m going to be recording. I haven’t had the opportunity to really disconnect for a while, and I feel the urge to do it and just write. I have a lot of things to write about. I also want to focus on DJing, which I’m really into at the moment. So yes, music music, music. 🙂 xoxo!
http://www.iamcocovan.com/
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Cocovan on Spotify