If I could make it go quiet is Girl in Red’s debut album, released in April 2021. A gift present evoked an inner curiosity in music and then a full-time commitment. What does it mean to be an independent artist?
Born in Norway, Marie Ulven had quite a normal childhood. Nothing ordinary, just the peculiar day-to-day activities like most kids. School, homework, chores, you know, the usual.
However, everything changed on Christmas Day 2012. On this special occasion, she was gifted a guitar by her grandfather. At first, she didn’t show any interest and put it aside.
Eventually, after a couple of months, she picked it up and jotted lyrics in the comfort of her bedroom. That momentum sparked creativity, and thus it expanded her interest in tunes.
At this point, it is clear that ever since its creation, the World Wide Web has given many leverages to its users. Namely, one of them is music composition. Equipped with the following accessories, it is possible to release songs to the masses.
- PC or laptop
- Music software to create a beat (e.g. Fl Studio, Logic Pro, Pro Tools, etc.)
- Microphone for laying down the vocals
- Online streaming platforms (e.g. SoundCloud, Spotify, Apple Music, etc.)
Indeed, that is what Marie began doing. Alike Juice WRLD, she wrote, produced, and uploaded (DIY) singles to the popular SoundCloud service. Within time, the streaming numbers increased, reaching intrigued listeners worldwide.
Hence, her debut single “I Wanna Be Your Girlfriend” (2016) knocked the walls for upcoming EPs such as “Chapter 1” and “Chapter 2,” released in 2018 and 2019, respectively. Throughout 2020, she remained active.
If I could make it go quiet
Finally, on April 30, 2021, the LP arrived for streaming. The opening track (produced by FINNEAS) is an injection of the perfect dose of serotonin- a chemical that spreads all over the album. “Did You Come?” keeps the ecstatic vibrations (no pun intended) in full effect.
Furthermore, “Hornylovessickness” will remain in your mind as one of its standout cuts. If the next track seems mellow, “You Stupid Bitch” has a heavy bass sound, feeling almost like a rock anthem. Regardless, “I’ll Call You Mine” resumes the indie aura.
But what does it mean to be independent (indie), musically-wise? We have witnessed many times when record labels and artists clash with each other over legal disputes.
For example, over breach of contract, payments, royalties, etc. That eventually can shelve the music indefinitely. Worst case scenario, it means the end of the road for the artist.
On the other hand, by remaining independent as a musician, you have ownership of your music, own your masters, and no one can interfere with your creative vision. So, is indie the way to go for a lucrative career?
With 11 titles clocking in at 33 minutes, “if I could make it go quiet” concludes on a high note. Simply her best work so far. Period (track 9).
Watch “Serotonin” and listen to Girl in Red’s “if I could make it go quiet.”
