At Inner Voice Artists, we aim to not only be a platform for music, film and global change, but for the artists and global changemakers who create them. Our Artist Spotlight series aims to create a space for discovery of new, budding global talent, while simultaneously offering you an exclusive glimpse into their creative process.
We’re truly delighted to have the international, electro pop musician, Cri., be our next artist featured!
"There is no other reason for what I do besides the fact that I feel it in my blood. I know this is what I have to do and I couldn't even stop if I wanted to. Music is how I breathe, I couldn't live without it." - Cri.
An Italian, pop singer-songwriter from Rome, Cri.’s life has always been intimately connected with the arts: “Growing up, I was constantly dividing my time between school and music, my life certainly wouldn’t be considered boring!” At the early age of 8, Cri. began writing songs in Italian; at only 12, he began honing his skills as a bilingual artist and started generating songs in both Italian and English, and he hasn’t stopped since.
Since Cri.’s very early entrance into the music world, the themes of his music have matured, addressing themes of addiction, betrayal, love, and even murder. However, the heavy topics that Cri. freely explores is directly contrasted with the visceral, dreamy atmospheric quality of his music. His discography, reminiscent of Mø and early-2010’s Marina and the Diamonds, is multilayered and emotional while still managing to remain catchy and relatable.
In December of 2017, Cri. released his first song “Milk”, an electro pop ballad about the emerging generation’s abuse of drugs. “Milk” was produced by NIKITA, the producer of the majority of Cri..’s work, including: “Lick My Tears” “Naked Hands” “Cup of Tea”, Cri.’s most recognized song, and “Role”.
Cri. released his most recent song, “Water Me” last month. Produced by the well known “PROD BY ENEMIES”, the musician considers it his biggest success by far, especially considering the song made it on the soundtrack of the third season of the Italian web series “SKAM Italia.”
YouthMundus was fortunate enough to delve deeply into Cri.’s creative process as an artist, as well as pick his brain about his origins as a musician, his own inspirations, and any advice she he for upcoming artists.
What inspires you and your creative process?
Honestly, I started writing songs because I needed an outlet. I needed a space to be myself without judgement. Finally, I found that space in music. It’s been that way since I was 7, and I’m sure that won’t ever change.
I am inspired by everything: Things and people that surround me, my friends, people I’ve met previously, places I’ve been. I write my songs using images that inspire me so I am really influenced by the visual arts. Sometimes, an entire song can be written just based off of a word or a phrase that surprised me.
Some of my biggest inspirations are David Bowie and Lady Gaga, I think that both of them, in their distinct ways, have created and curated an entire image. Their careers are not just iconic because of their music, but also because of their heavy influence in fashion, innovation and philanthropy, that’s what I want to do.
What is the connection between your music and social justice? Why?
With my music, I want to create a safe space for all the weirdos that are feeling mistreated in today’s society.
I write a lot of songs concerning feminism and LGBTQ+ rights, they’re both incredibly important to me. Just two weeks ago, I wrote a song about toxic masculinity and another one about mental health. They’re both pretty intense and I already can’t wait to release them!
What inspired you to pursue music? What were the challenges you overcame in this?
There is no other reason I do what I do besides the fact that I feel it in my blood. I know this is what i have to do and I couldn’t stop even if I wanted to. Music is how I breathe, I couldn’t live without it.
As far as the biggest challenge I’ve overcome, I’d have to say the most challenging struggle I’ve encountered since starting my career has always been with myself. It’s an ongoing challenge to quiet the inner saboteur who tries to make me believe I’m not “cool enough” to do what I do or because I can’t do an 8-part riff like Ariana Grande my music isn’t worthy. However, releasing my songs has, and continues to, really help me with my insecurities. I’m proud of my work and with each new release it feels like I’m moving towards the right direction.
What’s been the most rewarding part of being an artist for you? Do you have any advice for future musicians?
By far, the most rewarding part of being an artist has been having the privilege to work with my new producers, the work we’re collaborating on feels extremely right to me and to who I am as an artist. My work on SKAM has been an extremely satisfying achievement to reach because it really amplified my audience.
If i could give an advice to someone who wants to do music it would be to START NOW! If you work hard for what you want and you believe in the project you can and you will do it.
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Thank you for your continuous support and love,
Lots of love,
#Team IVA