Extrazen is Embracing Freedom with “Hollywood”

INTERVIEW

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INTERVIEW ✦

To signify an exciting new chapter in his blossoming career, rising Portuguese alt-pop sensation Extrazen recently returned with his latest hypnotic release titled “HOLLYWOOD.” Structurally, the fresh new track depicts Extrazen’s innovative approach to his still-evolving craft by blending remixed vocal samples with a prominent beat that relishes in the powerful presence of a bass-saturated beat — teaming up with underground talents Herlander and Odete to bring out the track’s full potential.

From the storytelling perspective, “HOLLYWOOD” conveys a revolutionary celebration of empowerment and independence, with each self-penned lyric showcasing the singer-songwriter’s layered, expansive techniques. In addition to the song’s intriguing ambition, Extrazen further facilitates a bold music video that pulls inspiration from the timeless concept of duality — setting itself within a dark, worn warehouse despite embracing his flashy sense of style regardless of his surroundings. And whether it’s the infectious production elements embedded within the song or the cinematic detailing of the video, Extrazen is putting in work.

To celebrate his new, polished presentation of musicality that’s conveyed through “HOLLYWOOD,” the singer is breaking down this liberating era of his art.

Extrazen 

Congratulations on your new drop! How would you describe the vibe of your latest single, “HOLLYWOOD”?

Extrazen: Thank you! I’d say it’s a hard-hitting and disruptive song with personal and honest lyrics touching on the “fake it until you make it” theme and what it’s like to always believe in yourself through your own eyes, even though others try to pull you back into their reality.

How did the collaboration with underground acts Herlander and Odete come about for this track?

Extrazen: I really wanted to have this “fake it until you make it” theme on the song while exploring the will and need to be yourself and believe in yourself at all times. I’ve known Herlander and Odete for a while now and have always been a big fan of both. Since we met and traded ideas, I just knew that they were the collaborators this song needed due to being the exact personification of this idea I wanted to portray. It just seemed perfect to have the 3 of us go back to back talking about our experiences regarding this theme.

Extrazen

Is there something in particular about the industry that drove you to explore themes of independence and self-reliance in “HOLLYWOOD”?

Extrazen: I just feel that it can sometimes put artists into a certain box and limit their creativity and way to present themselves to the world. As an artist, I should be able to be myself at all times, to do whatever I want to do and make the most of it, with that at the basis of the pyramid. That’s really something I’ve always believed in and truly feel that is the most important scope for the conversation and the only way to push things forward.

The music video for “HOLLYWOOD” showcases a striking contrast between grit and glamour. What were some of the core ideas you wanted to execute through the video?

Extrazen: The video was directed by the amazing João Morgado who will be responsible for every video on the EP. He started it with the idea of having this light, a flash representing success, that I’m chasing throughout the video, linking with the “fake it until you make it ” theme and the never-ending run to reach certain goals. A reference to Hollywood’s golden age is also made while the video progresses into a more and more disruptive experience, pairing with the song’s atmosphere and theme.

Reemerging after a period of creative hibernation, how does “HOLLYWOOD” signify your artistic growth and evolution?

Extrazen: “HOLLYWOOD” represents a lot of the process I’ve been going through these last few years. I started to produce during the pandemic and been very focused on exploring that lane and gaining control over that part of the process to truly achieve the sound I sometimes see in my head. I started the song myself, then sent it to Odete who added some amazing stuff and finally took it to Luar for some final details. It ends up feeling more personal when you start and work on that embryonic phase and then see the final results all together. It translated a hands-on path for me, where I can independently start and finish whatever idea I have, the way I have envisioned it.

Extrazen

When you think back about your initial choice to pursue this path – did you have a clear vision of the artist you wanted to be? And if so, how does that vision compare to your current aspirations?

Extrazen: To be honest, I think the only clear vision I’ve had throughout the years was that I wanted to be an artist that kept pushing the boundaries. Either it be through music, videos or communication, it’s always been present that we didn’t want to do it the “normal” way as me and my team always preferred to try something, fail and go again, rather than play it safe. At the end of the day, I’ll always be myself and do the music I want to be making at that time, and I think that’s the takeaway I’m the proudest of.

Regarding future releases, are there any styles or genres you’re currently inspired by?

Extrazen: Yes! We already have the singles ready for release as they will be out in a few months’ time before the EP release date early next year. Feeling very inspired by the alternative scene as always, both hip-hop and pop for example, so definitely going in that direction on some songs with extremely honest verses laid on top of gritty and hard self-produced instrumentals touching on hyper pop and Avantgarde sounds that I’m a very big fan of.