Spindle Radar: Astrid S Talks New Track ‘Pretty’ And Important Life Lessons

Following the release of her debut album ‘Leave It Beautiful’ in 2020, Norwegian pop superstar Astrid S has her sights firmly set on going global this year. Rounding off 2021 by releasing the ethereal, pop perfect single ‘Pretty, which features Dagny, Astrid is the definition of a triple-threat, having just scored the leading role in a brand-new movie! We caught up with her to discuss her A-list collaborations, the future of live music and learning how to trust your gut.

Happy 2022 Astrid, how did you spend your Christmas and New Year?

Happy new year! I spent it at home in Rennebu, Norway with my family. I read books, watched Christmas movies (The Holiday is one of my favourites) and slept. A lot. On New Year’s Eve I celebrated with a small group of friends. 

You released an incredible new single called ‘Pretty’ in December – can you tell us how that song came to life, and the inspiration behind writing it?

Me and Dagny had a couple of days in the studio together exactly a year ago. It was supposed to be a fun and slow start to 2021. We hadn’t worked together before, so we weren’t sure if we were writing for me or her, which wasn’t important. We just had fun and made lots of ideas for songs. At the very end of the last day, Pretty came about. We both instantly had a good feeling about it.

I think the idea for the song came from our conversations about being in a relationship, romantically or with our jobs, it’s a rollercoaster of ups and downs. Sometimes it can make you doubt it, almost wanting to give up. But suddenly you have those moments where you’re reminded why you’re together, or why you’re doing it, and it’s totally worth it!

‘How did the collaboration with Dagny happen? Did the song originally have a feature, or was it intended solely for you before the two of you teamed up?

Both me and Dagny write, so this song came out of a writing session and was written as a duet from the beginning!

Can we expect more Astrid S x Dagny collaborations this year?

If it was up to me, I would make an album with her. It’s so much more fun being a pop-duo!

You’re not shy of working with other artists. Who is someone that you would love to work with, and why?

Last year I listened a lot to Griff, Beabadoobee and PinkPantheress. They all have their own style of songwriting that feels very playful. I’ve also listened a lot to Sam Fender. His lyrics give me chills. I would love to write with him. 

‘Pretty’ features on The Hating Game soundtrack, and you’ve also just appeared in Norwegian film Three Wishes For Cinderella. How was the transition from musician to acting, and has it been difficult to divide your time between both creative roles?

When I started preparing for the role about a year ago, I wasn’t able to travel or play concerts. At the time, Oslo went into lockdown for months, and for a while we weren’t allowed to be more than three people in the room together. I tried doing zoom sessions, but it was more of a hit and miss thing. So, the timing couldn’t have been better! I think it was good for me to try something totally different and out of my comfort zone. Something I’ll take with me from that experience, in my songwriting and as an artist…. actually, in general, is to not take everything too seriously. It’s ok to mess up. At least you tried!

Are you planning to star in any forthcoming films in 2022?

As of now I’m just going to focus on songwriting for the next few months, which I’m very excited about!

The past few years have felt so turbulent for everyone. How did you channel your creativity during the global pandemic?

Well, I was lucky enough to be creative in a whole other field, acting in a movie. Other than that, I have a few other projects I started during lockdown in 2020 which are coming this year. 

What do you think is the most important thing you’ve learnt about yourself in the past year?

To trust my gut feeling.

What do you hope that fans take away from your music?

I hope it’s a place for them to feel comfort, understood or make their day just a little bit better. Maybe give them a new perspective! 

We love your style! Who are your favourite designers or brands at the moment?

I love Scandinavian designers. Mardou & Dean, Ganni, Sakspotts, Acne. And so many more.

With live shows and festivals still in peril, we’re imagining what an Astrid S gig would look like – when can we catch you playing some live shows?

I haven’t played live in three years! I took a break from playing concerts the year before corona while I was making an album. Great timing, haha. It’s like I almost don’t remember the look of my show. I do remember the feeling, though. I’m really excited to put together a brand-new show this year. 

What would be the theme tune to your life?

The first song that came to mind is Bette Davis Eyes by Kim Carnes. I have no idea why, but I’m just gonna go with that.

Make sure to check out Astrid S and Dagny’s latest single ‘Pretty’ here or below.