Fall in Love with Belgium Singer Songwriter Ciinderella Balthazar.

Once in a while, a musical artist comes along and stops you in your tracks. Ciinderella Balthazar is a Belgian artist based in London, England. A singer-songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist. And as an artist you will find a craft in her work missing from so many modern creators. Find out more here in Fall in Love with Belgium Singer Songwriter Ciinderella Balthazar

Emotive and heartfelt you can’t help but be moved. Not only is her work beautiful but there is an emotional braveness as a woman standing alone with just a mic and guitar. Nothing to hide behind but talent. In an exclusive, we caught up with her at a rehearsal studio in north London.

In this exclusive interview get a little more insight into this amazing female musical artist.

So what was the first moment you knew that your world had to be in music? Can you give an example maybe of a moment when you realized or was it just a general feeling you always had?

From a young age, I felt an undeniable pull towards music. I remember sitting at the piano as a child, feeling an overwhelming sense of peace and purpose. It wasn’t just about playing notes but about expressing something deeper within me. That feeling never left, and I realized ‘there and then’ that music was my calling.

Also, you have the most wonderful heritage. How did that play a part in your musical journey?

My heritage has profoundly influenced my music. Growing up with a blend of cultural sounds and traditions from Chile, Morocco, Japan, France, the UK, and Belgium has strongly influenced the landscapes of my musical background.

However, it’s my Native American ancestry, particularly the spirit and spirituality of the Mapuche tribe, my Mother’s family tribe in Chile that has had the deepest impact. This connection has guided my journey of truth. My music shares a deep sense of identity and purpose.

I’m making the assumption that music was in your soul from a very young age. If this is the case (and even if it isn’t), can you tell us a little about your musical journey, including your musical education and up to where you are now?

Absolutely, music has been omnipresent in my life. I had a classical training in a Belgian academy from 13 (music theory & piano) and started playing guitar at 16. Over the years, I’ve explored various genres, from rock to alternative indie to pop and cinematic soul. This journey has led me to where I am now, preparing for the release of my debut EP, which is a culmination of my experiences and artistic growth.

I was constantly surrounded by music from a very young age. My mom was a rapper with a wide circle of musician friends. Our home was always filled with music, CDs everywhere, music magazines, and cassettes. I remember getting grounded for always “borrowing” her CD player and hiding it in my school backpack. I thought my mom was the coolest, and her friends were just as cool as her.

So you write as well as perform your own music. Can you tell us a little about the process of where the songs ‘come’ from and how you go about firstly writing and then putting tunes to them, or does the melody come first then the words?

The process is quite organic for me. Sometimes a melody will capture my attention, and the words will naturally follow. Other times, a concept or emotion will inspire the lyrics first. It’s a fluid dance between words and music, each shaping the other until the song feels complete. Sometimes I’m just struck by a wave of inspiration, and I can’t stop writing, and playing, … I feel the song’s birth, it’s alive, it’s needs to breathe on paper.

As a musician and a creative, what matters to you most when creating and performing your music?

Authenticity and connection are the most important in my music. I aim to share stories that resonate emotionally with my listeners, offering them a piece of my heart and soul.

Where do you feel your music has taken you as a person? How has it enriched your life?

Music has been a source of healing, helping me overcome the trauma of witnessing alcohol and drug abuse from a violent family member. I write songs of hope, navigating subjects that are difficult to discuss in a public setting.

I am a happy and very smiling person, but my songs are sad because I write about pain and overcoming that pain. I have experienced racism, abuse, and poverty, but through music, I’ve found a voice and a sense of purpose, allowing me to express my emotions and connect with others on a deeper level. My music has not only been a refuge but also a powerful tool for personal growth and resilience, shaping me into the woman I am today; a possible positive reflection for many who have or are still experiencing similar hardships.

How do you deal with creative control when you go into a studio and work with other musicians?

Collaboration is a beautiful part of the creative process. While I cherish creative control, I also value the perspectives and talents of others. It’s about finding a balance, respecting each other’s contributions, and working together to bring the vision to life.

Finally, tell us about the new music you are making and why you choose to go it alone rather than just sign away to a big label.

I’m currently finalising the visuals of my Debut EP “UNSAFE” set for release in March 2024 which intimately explores themes of consent, safety, pain, love and hope. It features three new tracks: “Fame,” a bold anthem about staying true to my values, “Money Games,” reflecting on the pursuit of success, and the title track “Unsafe,” addressing vulnerability and advocating for personal safety.

Staying independent has allowed me to maintain creative freedom and ensured my music stays true to my vision. While I’m open to working with labels, I’m dedicated to building a genuine connection with my audience and staying true to my artistic path.

Ciinderella’s NEW SONG ” TAKE ME”

YOUTUBE * INSTAGRAM * APPLE MUSIC *SPOTIFY

Images from a rehearsal session.

Shot on left-hand side. High neck upturn Tee By SRVC.com. Dress by Bora Aksu.com. Denim Jacket by Guess Jeans.eu Socks by Sockshop.co.uk. Smoke Crystal Heart Earrings By Self Portrait.com and Black Brogue shoes by Justin Deakin.com

Ciinderella Balthazar Instragram, Creative Director Jo Phillips .Cent Magazine, Photographer David Titlow David Titlow.com, Style Director Lily Lam lilylailam.com, Fashion Editor Catarina Soares .Cent Magazine, Makeup by Eli Wakamatsu at Stella Creative Artists using By Terry. stellacreativeartists.com/eli-wakamatsu-editorial, Hair by Tarik Bennafla at Stella Creative Artists using Olivia Garden. https://www.stellacreativeartists.com/tarik-bennafla-editorial, Retouch frisian.co.uk. Location Ark Studios arkstudios.london/hire, Fashion assistant Eka Kapanadze and Layla Brooks

Shot One

Denim Jacket by Wrangler wrangler.com. Blue dress by Rachel Gilbertrachelgilbert.us. Socks by SockShop sockshop.co.uk Belt by Hinkelmanbrand.com Athina Leather, Sandals by Christian Louboutin

Shot Two

Champagne Sequin Maxi Dress by Self Portrait.com. Denim dress by Marques Almedia marquesalmeida.com. Gold crochet top by Samanta Virginia. Blue Denim Waistcoat by Wrangler.com. Gold Brogues by Justindeakin.com

Shot Three

Agata Skirt in black sheer layer midi skirt by Eudon Choi EudonChoi.com. White Shirt by A-Jane.com. Leather jacket by Ivanerolli.com. Socks by Sockshop.co.uk . Santigag boots By Christian Louboutin.com

Shoot Four