Topliner

In my collaborative music creation process, I usually start with the melody. I let myself be guided by the inspiration of an instrumental track, improvising with non-lyrical vocal sounds and allowing melodies, emotions, intentions, and sometimes even words to naturally emerge and become part of the recording.

This process can happen directly with musicians during a jam session, through a spontaneous exchange where the music is built in real time, or later on my own, when I work on an instrumental and search for the topline that will define the direction and identity of the track.

I also improvise toplines on my own. The structure of the verse, chorus, and bridge usually takes shape naturally.

When an idea comes to me, I have to record it right away to make sure I capture its spontaneity.

Inspiration can appear suddenly, but it can also be influenced by what I listen to, what I experience, and what I feel.

Writing

I then begin the writing process. Once the structure of the song is defined, with its different sections identified — such as verses, choruses, and transitions — I start developing the lyrics.

The few words captured during the improvisation can guide me toward a theme, but the writing can also be inspired by the mood of the melody and by what I feel in the moment.

Once an idea begins to take shape, I research, trust the process, and follow where my ideas lead me. I play with words, explore synonyms, antonyms, and rhymes. I search for “the melody of words.” I experiment, have fun, and allow the process to unfold naturally. The phrasing and the sounds of the words must serve the song.

The meaning of what I want to express can be conveyed in many different ways.The lyrics are then placed onto the existing melody, while seeking to preserve the balance between meaning, rhythm, and the emotion already present in the music.

The lyrics can continue to evolve throughout the creative process, until they fully resonate with me; sometimes even on the day of the recording.

Creative mentorship

Since 2022, I have been collaborating with producer Marco Rivao as part of the rock project The Black Shoe’s Button. He guides and supports us throughout the entire creative process.  His approach is rooted in a philosophy similar to that of producers such as Rick Rubin or Max Martin.

He has taught me that trust is essential in any collaborative work. A mutual sense of safety is necessary to create the freedom required for creativity. Freedom is at the heart of the process. 

Creating together expands possibilities, enriches the creative journey, allows us to support one another, and helps us grow. 

I have also come to understand that creating music is a form of play, and that it is important to keep a childlike sense of curiosity and wonder.

Respect, trust, and humility feel like essential foundations for meaningful and inspiring collaborations.

Languages

Writing in English gives me a sense freedom. To me, this language carries a naturally rock musical quality.

French is my mother tongue and inspires me to write poetry. I will create songs in the language of Molière too.

I enjoy playing with metaphors and frequently pepper my texts with references and nods to specific artists.

Escribí una canción en español, que es el idioma de mi corazón
Ich verstehe und spreche ein bischen Deutsch

I find the blending of different languages incredibly inspiring as well.