Col3trane
discusses his new album with Contents Culture.
Photography: Matthew Priestly
Stylist: Anthony Pedraza
Interview: Juan Marco Torres
Recording artist Col3trane is on the rise establishing a fresh and atmospheric sound in R&B. After two EPs and joining Dua Lipa on tour, the London native releases his debut album Lush Life, taking us on an electrifying and bittersweet exploration of all the highs and lows in love. ContentsCulture catches up with the singer to talk about the inspiration behind the album, how he navigates the polarities of romance, and his love for LA.
Top: Heron Preston, shirt: Tibi, t-shirt: Helmut Lang, choker: Dinosaur Designs, necklaces: Third Crown
When you were growing up in London, what was your vision of a fulfilling and lavish life?
I always thought growing up if I can live by making music then I would never want for anything else. That’s really all it is, all the other shit is here today and gone tomorrow.
Your debut album touches upon the duality of ecstasy and pain in love. How do you attempt to reconcile this from your experience?
I think by understanding that it’s all inevitable … I’m really just a passenger in the story. Along for the ride.
Jacket and pant: Issey Miyake, shirt: Tibi, t-Shirt: Helmut Lang, sneakers: Versace, necklaces: Willshott, ring: Third Crown
Can you share a bit about what was inspiring you as you went into recording Lush Life?
I just really wanted to make this album to be honest. I wanted to make it on my terms. I got to a point where I was so clear on what I wanted to do, I just had to do it. I was also listening to a lot of different music when I could so I could kind of separate myself from it. I had a playlist called ‘morning music’ which was Stevie, Marvin Gaye, Isley Brothers, Curtis Mayfield kinda joints. A lot of drills when I went to the gym. Jazz standards when I got home after the studio before sleep. That part almost became routine. It was kinda cool.
Sweater: Black Boy Knits, pant: JW Anderson x Moncler, boots: Heron Preston, rings: Third Crown
There’s a natural vulnerability in your songwriting that’s rare and refreshing. Does this come natural to you?
I feel like writing songs is the only way I actually address the shit that I’m thinking without having to confront it in real life.
You talk a lot about hard work. How do you navigate love and heartbreak in a world that requires you to stay focused in the hustle?
I don’t … still learning.
Top and jacket: Heron Preston, pants: AnOnlyChild, shirt: Tibi, t-shirt: Helmut Lang, choker: Dinosaur Designs, necklaces and rings: Third Crown, bracelets: Willshott
“Californication (Feels Like I’m Falling in Love)” is one of your lead singles, including a music video that won United Master’s most creative video award. What does it say of the direction your art is pointing towards?
That video was so fun to make. We work really hard on the visuals to make sure that they tell a story independent from the song without taking away from the song if that makes sense. Glad that’s one that you like cos we really had fun making it.
Do you consider yourself a romantic?
100%
Coat: Stella McCartney, sweater: Kyle Lyk, pant: Heron Preston, eyewear: Versace, chokers: 3xcxk, necklaces: Third Crown
Which producers do you see having a major impact on the music industry?
First person that comes to mind is Alex Noorani.
Jacket and pants: Neil Barrett, top: Atelier Cillian, t-shirt: Helmut Lang, boots: Heron Preston, rings: Third Crown
If you weren’t in music what would you be doing?
I’d probably be writing something … when I was younger I thought I wanted to be a journalist. Maybe I’d be a music journalist like you.
What excites you the most about the future?
Making more music.
Top: Heron Preston, shirt: Tibi, t-shirt: Helmut Lang, choker: Dinosaur Designs, necklaces and rings: Third Crown
You spend a lot of your time here in LA. What are some of your favorite spots?
Favourite place to eat is the Taco stand around Lincoln & Venice opposite the Ralph’s. Favourite party is Pangea for sure. Can’t really think of anything else off the dome … I like the studio at pulse. Often hit silverlake ramen afterwards.
Top, jacket, and footwear: Heron Preston, pants: AnOnlyChild, shirt: Tibi, t-shirt: Helmut Lang, choker: Dinosaur Designs, necklaces and rings: Third Crown, bracelets: Willshott
Photography
Matthew Priestly
Creative Director
Deborah Ferguson
Interview
Juan Marco Torres
Stylist
Anthony Pedraza
Web layout
Jill Ryan
Listen to Lush Life here.