INTERVIEW: Cosmic Crooner releases new music video

Amsterdam-based Cosmic Crooner has been making his mark on the music world with his retro-inspired yet thoroughly modern sound. First unveiling his original sonic vision in March 2021 with his debut single “Deep Down in Jazz,” he followed up with a string of well-received tracks in the build up to his first full-length record, The Perks of Being a Hypocrite, which was released last year to critical acclaimed.

This release firmly planted him on the map of must watch artists in the European music scene, attracting a loyal following and clocking over a million streams on Spotify while bringing his music alive on stage, touring with acts such as Temples, Timber Timbre and Tempesst. Cosmic Crooner’s music carries a timeless quality, threaded with lyrics that offer a sharp, observant take on life, positioning him as a kind of musical philosopher.

As he prepares for the next chapter of his career, Cosmic Crooner is preparing to release his highly anticipated sophomore album. This project is set to serve up a bold homage to the golden age of bossa nova, the charm of classic cinema and the progressive soul music of the late 60s and early 70s. Opening the first window into the upcoming LP, the lead single titled “Never Wear Your Own Merch” presents a soul-infused piece that fuses cinematic string arrangements, courtesy of Trey Pollard, with a smooth, laid-back groove.

It’s a fitting introduction to the album, showcasing Cosmic Crooner’s knack for framing vintage sounds and making them feel entirely new and relevant. The title alone hints at his characteristic wit, suggesting a playful commentary on ego and self-promotion, delivered in a way that only Cosmic Crooner could pull off.

Sliding into a shimmering soundscape of lilting rhythms and warm instrumentation, Cosmic Crooner’s rich voice enters to spin silky melodies above the mellow groove. With elegant string flourishes adding dashes of colour to the arrangement and bright plucks peppering the mix, his alluring vocal performance casts a truly enchanting listening expeirence.

Wrapped in a sepia-toned aesthetic and full of blissful melodies carrying heartfelt lyricism, “Never Wear Your Own Merch” offers a dazzling sound that’s impossible not to love. Paired with the track is a music video filmed on 16mm film in the south of Spain and directed by Cosmic Crooner himself, drawing inspiration from vintage French cinema to deliver a charming cinematic visual accompaniment for the song.

We caught up with Cosmic Crooner to find out more about his musical journey so far, his new single “Never Wear Your Own Merch” and what he’s got lined up for the future. Check out our interview with Cosmic Crooner below.

Hey Cosmic Crooner, how’s things?

I’m doing really well – just released my new single ‘Never Wear Your Own Merch’.

What’s your earliest memory of making music?

It must have been singing along to Elvis Presley when I was about 5 years old. I was and still am a big Elvis admirer. Charm abounds.

Which artists do you draw most inspiration from?

This is a tough question, because I’m inspired by so many artists, but I’d have to say Serge Gainsbourg has had the biggest impact on me. His ability to evoke both laughter and tears within a single song is truly remarkable.

In 2017, I had the incredible experience of attending a Jane Birkin concert in Paris, where she performed Gainsbourg’s songs in a stunning old Art Deco cinema. It was hands down my favourite concert ever.
After the last Cosmic Crooner concert in Paris, the band and I visited his house, which has recently been transformed into a museum. It was an incredibly emotional experience to walk through his home and be guided by Charlotte Gainsbourg’s voice.

How else do you find inspiration for your music?

Reading and watching movies really helps me to find inspiration. I like how books and movies can transport you to a different place. I want my music to do the same.

What’s been your highlight of the year so far?

Playing Istanbul and a sold out show in Paris were very special for me. Furthermore, as I mentioned before, I really liked visiting Maison Gainsbourg. It was so intimate and special to visit the house of someone whose work you really admire.

What do you love about the Amsterdam music scene?

The thing I like is also the thing I dislike (and that is how small it is)… You kind of know everybody, which can be very helpful and nice.

What would you say is the perfect setting for listeners to enjoy your sound?

Cosmic Crooner fits every setting, but if I must be more specific I’d go for a car drive while the sun sets.

How has your own style and sound evolved since you started out?

My music style is becoming more and more like the music I tend to listen to at home. It began with a late ’60s Beatles influence, but I’m now incorporating more jazz and soul elements into my work.

Has your production process changed over the years too?

Not much has changed, but lately, I’ve learned to appreciate the room sound more. One thing that remains constant is my preference for recording live together in a space without a click track. For me, that’s the best way to capture the music.

Who would be your dream artist to collaborate with?

This is a tough question, but if I had to choose someone alive, I’d go with Clairo. I absolutely love her latest album, which she collaborated on with Leon Michel. What a vibe. I’d really love to work together.

How did you find making your new single “Never Wear Your Own Merch”?

Both writing and recording ‘Never Wear Your Own Merch’ was a lot of fun. I wrote it on a hot summer day and it was recorded on a late night summer day as well. We recorded the base of the song live and did the strings and percussion later. I really like the live feel of this song.

What message did you want to get across with this release?

To never stop looking for inspiration and to love each other.

What artist have you been listening to most recently?

Lately I’ve been listening a lot to Chico Buarque. I really like his work. Listen to Construcao and pay attention to the arrangements and his blue-green eyes.

What’s the main thing you want people to get out of listening to your music?

I hope my music transports people to a different place and evokes certain imagery. If that’s the case, I feel satisfied.

What’s been your favourite live performance so far?

I’ve played Istanbul two times and they were both amazing. The crowd was wild and what a city. Me and the band stayed for a week and I truly can’t wait to go back.

Who would be 3 artists to headline your dream festival? And where would it be?

I’ll go with living artists again. Jorge Ben Jor, Fat White Family, Caetano Veloso – a lovely Brazilian sandwich. Dream location would be Tabernas in the south of Spain in springtime.

Do you have any advice for a new artist wanting to follow your footsteps?

Never stop looking for inspiration.

Finally, what do you have lined up for the rest of 2024?

I’m really looking forward to supporting Mattiel in the UK in December. I’m a big fan of her work. Furthermore I’ll be releasing more music and cute videos.

Watch the music video for Never Wear Your Own Merch below