Answering some quick-fire questions, Florence Rose reveals more details on her new music.
Since graduating from Central Saint Martins, Florence Rose has been making quite a stir. Model, filmmaker and now musician, the 26-year-old has been weaving a web of creative successes. From modeling for high fashion brands such as Gucci and Marc Jacobs to directing her own short films, Florence continues to share her artistic vision with the world. However, now she does so in the form of music.
Having made her musical debut in October 2023 with her first single “I Am Your Daughter, ” Rose has captivated listeners with her ethereal, hauntingly beautiful dream pop vocals. Inspired by artists such as Massive Attack, Lana Del Rey, Goldfrapp and Elliott Smith, Rose’s hypnotic synth-embellished tracks are laced with delicate guitar melodies and strong story-telling lyricism. But, Rose’s style has evolved and matured over the past few months. In her latest single, “In Your Room”, released on the 15th of March, Rose dances around themes of love, lust, longing and girlhood.
Collaborating with Zak Watson for the track’s music video, Rose’s cinematic universe comes to life as the young singer-songwriter parades across a carefully crafted bedroom environment – designed by Josh James.
For those eager to hear more of Rose’s music, don’t panic. This summer, Florence is releasing a new EP titled “My Lust Is My Religion”. In light of her musical progression, we spoke to Rose to gain more insight into her current practice.
Mission: You recently released your third single, “In Your Room”. What was the main inspiration behind the track and music video?
Florence Rose: I wanted to make a surreal haunting lullaby, a track (and video) that lures you in and disintegrates before your eyes.
Mission: Describe your upcoming mini-album “My Lust Is My Religion” in three words.
Florence Rose: Haunting, desperate, hopeful.
Mission: Can you tell us any themes or motifs central to the EP?
Florence Rose: Love as strong as religion, Clarissa Pinkola Estès book, ‘Women That Run With The Wolves’ and erotic cinema.
Mission: Coming from a film background, who are your favourite directors? Has their work influenced your music in any way?
Florence Rose: I love the poets – Tarkovsky and Bergman, the surrealists – Jodorowsky and Lynch, and the deranged – Zuławski and Ducournau. Their work has 100% influenced my sound, I’m very inspired by Lynch’s movie scores and Forever and Always Possession by Zuławski.
Mission: What initially encouraged you to pursue a music career?
Florence Rose: While directing the score for my short film One White Feather I realized how much I enjoyed it, I also enjoyed posting short videos online playing the guitar. I think that blend together helped encourage me to make some of my own tracks.
Mission: What is your earliest music memory?
Florence Rose: Playing guitar with my dad.
Mission: What song would you consider your ‘coming-of-age’ anthem?
Florence Rose: Playing guitar with my dad. Seventeen, Sharon Von Etten.
Mission: Who are some emerging alt-pop talents that you’re loving right now?
Florence Rose: Gia Ford, The Last Dinner Party, Girlpuppy.
Mission: Finally, many find releasing music an intimidating prospect. Do you have any tips for those hoping to enter the music industry?
Florence Rose: It is intimidating, but if you believe in your story and you love what you’re making then it’s worth it, no?
Imagery courtesy of Florence Rose.
