Michelle Lee, as know as Froya by her faithful fans, is a Malaysian Singer Song-writer who is known for her unique style of music which blends a variety of genres ranging from folk pop to electronica. Read more about her as we get to know her better through her music and her life as a musician.
Tell us more about yourself! Are you a full-time musician?
Hello! Yes I am a full time music composer at Maveriq studio as my day job and by night; I write & produce for Froya.
Tell us your journey as a musician! When did you first discover your passion for music?
I’ve always knew that somehow music was what I really wanted to do when I grow up. Started with classical piano but it wasn’t until 19 that I decided songwriting is my passion. Music production is what drawn me into learning how to produce my tracks. I did pick up a few instruments here and there but I guess I’m just not that spontaneous when it comes to improvisation. So I stuck to writing, a more calculated path. Later on I was lucky enough to land a job as a full time composer, learning under my boss/mentor, Paul Morrison. Froya came after working in the studio. The rest is history!
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How would you like to be known by others?
I’m more of a songwriter and music producer by heart. I’ve never consider myself a singer to be honest. Singing is just a tool I developed much later to express the ideas in my head.
Do share more about your latest single, Dark Chocolate! What was the inspiration behind this song?
Funny enough, “Dark Chocolate” started off with a short snippet of vocal recording I had on my iPhone 3 years ago. I remember it was midnight coming home tired from work and all that, I sat in front of my little keyboard and started playing mindlessly. For some reason I really loved the hook and kept it, thinking I could stretch it into a song later. I did! The song is about standing up for your dreams, an ode to frustration and trying your hardest not to let obstacles/negativity take you over.
We love your music! How would you describe your singing style?
I honestly have no idea how to describe my singing style, like I mentioned it’s just a way to express the ideas in my head. It may vary from song to song as it depends on the style & direction of the track… almost like deciding what kind of seasoning goes with different dishes.
Share with us the creative process of a song/album
This is what I always love to share with others… there are no rules. In fact, it will be more fun in the writing process to just let it be, going out there and trying something. For me, it used to be melody & lyrics first, but I think I’ve adapted the writing process the other way round by working on the sound/arrangement first, the rest comes later.
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Tell us a random fact about yourself/something people don’t know about you!
I settled down and got married last year. Other than that, I guess lifting weights could be my only other hobby.
Any advice to budding musicians out there?
Perseverance and hard work. On repeat.
Any upcoming projects for you?
Second album is coming your way! Soon!
Any life mottos?
Winning is not everything. Learning is.
What is the ideal weekend for you?
A 3 days weekend is always better than 2.
Tell us what makes you smile the most?
My husband, my dog and Japanese food.
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For more information about Froya:
YouTube
