How do you mix genres and languages within a song, while avoiding that it sounds like a mess? Singer-songwriter Zola Johnson, from San Francisco, has the formula. Just listen to her new single Crystal Floors. It’s an indie pop song, adding jazzy elements and bossa nova rhythms. On top of that, she smoothly alternates between English and French (in a rare case of French lyrics sung by an American artist really sounding like French).

Zola explains: “I wanted to create this character of myself; mischievous and mysterious. (…) Switching to French helped emphasize the mysterious aspect of the song. It gives a dramatic and cinematic effect which is the vibe I was going for.”

For more great new music, follow the constantly updated Carte Blanche Music playlist.

Werner Schlosser

I’m a music industry watcher and journalist. Worked at a CD club, a record store chain and was editor in chief of an entertainment trade magazine. Have been in the radio business since 1987, producing and presenting shows. Was music director of several stations. Also, I developed the European Border Breakers Chart, Music Moves Europe Talent Chart and ESNS Chart. CEO of Werner Bros. tekst | uitleg.