Zoe’s Shanghai: Harmonies of Heart and Mind
As we delve into the artistic universe of Zoe’s Shanghai, particularly in light of their enchanting new EP, Undergrowth, we are reminded that inspiration often lies beyond the notes and melodies. In this intimate Q&A, band members share their personal sources of creativity, the lessons learned along their musical journey, and the values that guide their artistry.
From Mehdi’s meditative strolls through art exhibitions to Zoé’s empowering routines, each response unveils the diverse influences that shape their music. They explore the importance of honesty and vulnerability in their work, reflecting on the connections they nurture with one another and with their audiences.
Join us as we embark on this momentary but enlightening Q&A, gaining insight into the minds of these talented musicians, their creative processes, and their dreams for future collaborations. Let us celebrate the beauty of their collective journey and the profound impact of their artistry.
Outside of your art form, where do you find inspiration?
Mehdi: By walking for hours in an exhibition (visiting them a few times), immersing myself in the paintings. I especially love The Musée de l'Orangerie in Paris.
Where do you think you get your personal power from?
Zoé: From my routine. If I manage to get a good sleep, a good sweat and some good healthy food, then I've already shown I'm the master of my own destiny!
What is your favourite space?
Emerik: Spending time caring for my garden and witnessing how it evolves from one day to the next.
Is there something you learnt early in your career that you have now disproven?
Landy: The quest for perfection can be a hurdle rather than a realistic goal. I really feel like what happens in the moment needs to be truly seen as a present.
How much of a role do other musicians play in inspiring your work?
Mehdi: The musicians that have the biggest and most continuous effect on me are my musician friends; I always want them to be as honest as possible. I let them affect my vision and it allows me to take paths I would never embark on.
Who is on your dream collaboration list?
Zoé: My baby brother Hendrix Harris. We've tried a couple of times, but we're too passionate about what we do, and too honest with each other, so it quickly gets a bit fiery. Hope we manage to meet somewhere in the musical realm one day. Also, Miguel Atwood Ferguson would be amazing! We don't have strings on our tracks yet and his work is beyond stunning. It would be so humbling.
Is there a specific sonic theme, genre or instrument that you draw pure joy from?
Emerik: Frantz Casseus, Haitian Dances. It gives me a sense of awe and pure bliss. It’s continuously playing in the background on cold winter nights when I’m in the countryside.
How does visual aesthetic come to play in your work?
Mehdi: For me it's 90% about attitude and embracing the music we're playing. Taking risks in my outfits allows me to inhabit our music more.
What are the core values behind your art?
Landy: Being honest towards myself in my expression. Feeling that my creativity is in sync with where I'm at and respectful of the world and time we live in.
What would be your ultimate song to cover?
Zoé: Nena by Maria Teresa Vera and Lorenzo Hierrezuelo y Cuarteto, with my brother, in 50 years time, sitting on rocking chairs.
RAPID Q&A WITH ZOÉ
Are there any creatives you'd like to platform right now?
Our friends, always and forever. Whatever the medium, we all rise together.
If you could grant a wish for someone, who and what would it be?
Wishes for the fam! For my brother to be fully recognised for his amazing talent, and for our mum to live a longer life than she did.
What is your spirit animal?
Zebra of course! It starts with a Z and is black and white just like me. I really identified with it as a child.
What do you own that you should throw out, but can’t?
My phone.
If you could time travel, who are you visiting?
I'd be doing a few visits, if that's allowed. Trying to piece back my heritage on my mum's side. Finding out where my ancestors came from in Africa and then visiting their descendants in the early 20th century in Jamaica to witness their lives there and get to know them and the land.
You have a free plane ticket, where are you going?
Jamaica. I've never been, it's an intimidating trip for me, and I think a free ticket is the kind of incentive I need.
If you could change the end of any film what would it be and what would you change it to?
You tell me! I fall asleep during movies...
Why do you think we are here on planet earth at this time?
Wow this is so deep! I don't know, and I think there is beauty in that. I don't/can't understand why but I think trying to understand how we want to be in the world should be the focus.
What's the weirdest dream you've ever had?
I was at a museum at 5 years old, and saw the face of my grandpa on the French white side of my family, in a frame with curlers in. Was a damn disturbing sight cause he's pretty uptight. I had a good laugh when I woke up.
If you could learn one new skill instantly, what would it be?
I think it would be to rid all people of physical and psychological pain, and still give them the learnings that sometimes/often come with the pain.
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