Pop artist Brooke Alexx premiere’s her upbeat new single “Downplay,” out now on all streaming platforms. This is Alexx’s first single since she released her debut EP. “Downplay” was co-produced by Yuval Maayan and ARYAY of Dillon Francis, Baby Jake and Diplo. “Downplay” is a vibrant dance party single with influences of reggae and one of Alexx’s favorite genres, Swedish pop. The single is about not reacting when seeing an ex out in public. In the coming weeks, Alexx’s next three singles will have an accompanying self-directed music video.
Alexx’s music began in musical theater, and her magnetic voice shows it. Her influences range from Tove Styrke, Charli XCX and Taylor Swift. She’s a Nashville transplant, who’s already received over 700,000 streams of her debut EP Me. We chatted with Alexx about her initial introduction to music, why she’s pursuing it as a career, the writing and recording process for “Downplay,” and directing her upcoming music videos.
What drew you to music initially, and what led you to pursue it as a career?
Brooke Alexx: When I was 7, I told my mom I wanted to be a singer. She then started taking me to audition for musicals all over NYC and that’s when I started dipping my toes into the industry. It wasn’t until I discovered Taylor Swift in 8th grade, however, that I realized I could make a career out of being a contemporary singer/songwriter. I learned guitar and began songwriting and eventually, moved to Nashville after graduating college to pursue my dream.
Love how upbeat “Downplay” is! Can you share with us the writing and recording process for it?
Brooke:Thanks so much!! “Downplay” was the very last song I wrote on a writing trip to LA last summer. I had recently gotten out of a relationship and my cowriter, Brooke Jenkins, brought the title and it immediately struck a chord with me. ARYAY played us this track he had and I was like, “that’s the one,” and we got to writing! ARYAY’s brother, Glowmo, was in town visiting and joined our write- he ultimately came up with that catchy, chorus melody. I had my producer, Yuval Maayan, finish out the production and it became what you’re hearing now!
“Downplay” draws on Swedish pop and reggae influences. Who are some of your favorite musicians from those genres?
Brooke: Absolutely love Astrid S, Tove Styrke, and LOVA! I definitely draw inspiration from their production styles.
You also have two more singles debuting, along with self-directed music videos. What drew you to your love for music videos, and what has been the most challenging aspect?
Brooke: I took a film class my senior year of high school and fell in love with cinema and story-telling through digital media. I decided to minor in film production while in college, and now I direct and edit my own videos. I love to have my hands on all aspects of the creative process and have been hugely inspired by Taylor Swift and the large role she plays in creating her own music videos. The most challenging aspect is making sure everything runs smoothly the day-of. Since I’m an indie artist and the budget is small-scale, there’s a lot of DIY that goes into the process. Luckily, I have great friends who help out and I’ve been able to work with incredibly talented crews on set (shoutout to Jimmy Naples, Alex Beswick, and Tyler Chase).
