Interview With Karima Francis

Blackpool's Karima Francis released her debut album, The Author, back in 2009. Since then she has proved herself to be one of the UK's most compelling and intriguing recording artists. With her latest single she delicately handles the subject of mental health. We caught up with her to find out more...

First and foremost, hello and how are you?

I’m doing ok, thank you for asking. Strange times…

Tell us about the record you have just released…

Well, I’ve just released a track called 'Orange Rose’ I recorded the track with my friend out in Los Angeles.

How do you feel when releasing a record?

It feels good to be able to put music out there as and when you want! I’m really happy with it.

Tell us a little about your creative process…

For this song particular song, is started with myself and a guitar. The song later developed in the studio. My creative process can change all the time, sometime I start with the lyric, other times with the music.



If the record were an animal, what animal would it be?

I would say a Cheetah, because on the verse of the song it starts creeping up on you. Then, it pounces on you at the the chorus.

Define your sound in five words…

Raw, Rootsy, Organic, Saturated.

What was the first song that caught your attention?

'I Want You’ - Bob Dylan

What was the first song you bought?

Stevie Wonder - 'For Your Love’

And the first album?

'In Utero’ - Nirvana

What was the best concert you have ever seen?

Led Zeppelin at the 02.

What did the experience teach you that you have translated to your own shows?

Professionalism I guess, It was quite a crazy concert I couldn’t really see over peoples head. I was 15 so hard to remember. I know for sure that I wanted to be up there one day!

What other artist are you most excited to hear from?

At the moment. Car Seat Headrest and David Ramirez.

If you could work with them, what would you hope to record?

I would love to record a killer duet with David Ramirez.

If you had to pick three artists to be filed next to, who would they be and why?

Sharon Van Etten because she is such an inspiration to me. A great songwriter and I have so much respect for her work.

Ryan Adams again because he is the my favourite singer-songwriter ever. I would love for someone to feel that way about my music one day.

Jeff Buckley because I would like to be remembered for my voice.

If you could jam with one artist alive or dead, who would it be?

I would love to sing with Mark Hollis from Talk Talk if he was alive, or Roy Robison.

If you could have written one song by another artist, what would it be?

The Beach Boys - 'Don’t Worry Baby'

Someone is making a film of your life, who will play you?

I would like a male to play me to have a cool spin on it. I love Caleb Landrey Jones and would love him to play the role of myself.

Lastly, tell us one thing you have never revealed in an interview…

I’m a vegan.



Karima Francis Official Website