Check out our interview with rising Swedish pop star Paula Jivén who just released her debut EP, The Duality In Me last Friday (May 6th) via Universal Music Sweden.
Throughout the EP’s explosively versatile tracks, Paula defies all expectations in favor of following her most playful and daring instincts while coming to terms with understanding the different facets of who she is. The Duality In Me will feature previous offerings such as her beautifully dreamy debut single “What Are You Hungry For?” which encourages listeners to find meaning and joy in their life.
On The Duality In Me, Paula offers a crash course in who she is as a creator as she shares the songs she’s been writing since she was a teenager, marking the end of one era and the beginning of the next. First discovering her fascination with music at a young age, Paula developed her multidimensional musicality throughout the years starting with violin at just three, later learning piano, and at 13 performed on Sweden’s Got Talent and earned the coveted golden buzzer. Creating a sonic world that is truly her own, Paula’s music has already resonated with listeners globally, amassing more than 1 million total streams, over 31 million views and 200K followers on TikTok, and early media support from the likes of BBC Radio 1, Vogue Scandinavia, Ones To Watch, Notion, and Clout.
Follow Paula @paulajiven
How would you describe who Paula Jivén is in 3 words?
Songwriter, creator, and Scandinavian.
How did you first get started in the music industry?
I’ve always been doing music, but when I turned 13 I realized that I wanted to do it “for real”. So I auditioned for Sweden’s Got Talent!
Tell us about your experience on Sweden’s Got Talent – what was the feeling like to earn the coveted golden buzzer?
I am beyond thankful for the show and what it has done for my career! It was a fun, but challenging experience.
What would you say are the greatest lessons you’ve learned in life so far?
Not sure! Maybe that it can be important to let things take time? But the lesson of self-love is probably the most important. You’ve got to be your own best friend and biggest champion! I can still struggle with self-image at times, but I’ve come a long way.
You’re about to release your debut EP “The Duality In Me,” what does this record mean to you?
First of all, it’s my debut! The EP is my baby and it has songs that just have to be released. To me, it’s the foundation of my sound and my writing. But also an introduction to what’s to come, and who I am as an artist.
What’s the story behind your debut single, “What Are You Hungry For?”
I wrote “What Are You Hungry For” for a friend who was having a very hard time with herself. It was strange for me to see her so lost in that and I wanted to write something for her. It was important for me to make it a supportive song and tell her that I support her through it.
What is your favorite song from The Duality In Me and why?
I think it’s got to be the final track, “Rude Girl”! But if I’m being honest, the reason why it’s my favorite is probably because it’s the newest. It’s so hard to say, I love them all so much!
How would you explain your fashion style?
I’d say I’m a bit all over the place? I only buy second-hand, so I really enjoy looking for interesting and unique pieces. But I’d love to get more into fashion. I feel like there’s a huge room to fill with sustainable fashion and I want to be part of that!
If you could meet someone living or dead, who would it be and why?
I can’t miss out on the chance to bring someone back to life! There are so many possibilities. I don’t know, maybe someone from an unsolved murder to figure it out? But I’d probably meet my grandma, I miss her a lot.
What advice would you give to your younger self and why?
That it’s ok to do your own thing. Good friends will join along the way!
What is your own definition of happiness?
Honestly, right now I’m striving for the anxiety-free moments rather than the happy ones. I find it easier that way, because happiness usually finds you.
What’s next for Paula Jivén in 2022?
I’m gonna start playing live, with my music! I am so excited about that.
Photo Credit: Evelin Johnsson
