In conversation with Froukje

Celebrating the diverse and multi-faceted pool of Amsterdam talent, Calvin Klein Jeansand Glamcult have come together to capture creative individuals in the new season’s workwear finest. We caught up with singer-songwriter, Froukje, deep-diving into her iconic fanbase, rock influences and musical escapes. Read the interview and make sure to come by DOLLEBEGIJNENSTEEG 5 to experience the Calvin Klein exhibition and brand-new Glamcult Store from March 3rd to the 12th!

To begin with, tell me what you’ve been up to!
Not much to be honest! 2022 was a really busy year – I played around 70 shows. The past few months have been about recovering. I’ve been focusing on getting rest and working on new music. 

Well deserved! Your music has been described as ‘coming of age’. How would you describe your music in your own words?
I think it’s pretty accurate. It’s pop music, and I sing about the things I go through, as everyone else. Sometimes it’s quite literally about life, about the things I see and what I think about when I see them. My music is a description of a young person – it’s about putting our thoughts into words. 

What is something you wish more people knew about you?
Maybe that I’m quite funny! My music is quite serious, and certainly not always the happiest, but I think I’m a fun person to be around. You can’t really see it that much in the media.

You’re known for having a pretty iconic fanbase. What is your favourite thing about the people who support your music?
My fans are very loyal, and there’s a group that comes to every show. They’re very committed – they buy tickets and buy merch, and are simply very excited to hear my music. They’re very sweet and expressive. They always look very beautiful at every show! 

I love the pop and rock influences in your music. Who have been some of your inspirations, from childhood to today
I always find It difficult to explain my sound. I really like Dutch music. There is this genre “kleinkunst”  – a specific type of music that I was making at first. Slowly, my sound got more poppy, and I then started working with an EDM producer, which made it more danceable. My father was a big Beatles fan, so I think I learnt a lot about good songwriting from listening to them as a child.

I associate your music with an escape from the mundanity of everyday life. What do you hope to change in the world to make it a brighter place?
It’s important to not deny that life is boring sometimes. I get a lot of joy out of the small things that become a story in themselves. Like when you meet someone, have a short conversation, and then never see them again. I have found a very fun way of living by accepting that life is not always super exciting and looking for beautiful stories in my every day.

Who are some of the Dutch talents that we should familiarise ourselves with and why?
I’m a big fan of Charlotte, who is also a friend of mine. She makes really cool music – it’s dance and classical music combined. She also has a beautiful voice. Charlotte went on tour with me as a support act last year. Now, I think she is about to blow up.

What are some of the most memorable moments you’ve had in your career so far?
A lot of them, but Lowlands was very special. I went for the whole festival, so I’d already been there a few days and got to know the terrain and the people before I performed. But yeah, touring around Amsterdam with my band in general has been really fun. A lot has happened though, it’s hard to pinpoint specific moments.

What is your favourite hype song at the minute?
I think it’s one of Naaz’s songs, actually. The song is called Alive and it really makes me feel that. Its message is very beautiful as well. I love her new album!

Calvin Klein Jeans pieces are designed to “let the real you come through”.  In what ways do you see clothing as a tool for self-expression?

It’s a massive tool for self-expression. No matter how you were born, playing dress up is a great way to express yourself. Looks shouldn’t be the only thing you pay attention to when you meet someone, but the way you dress can be a very fun way into showing who you are on the inside as well.

Calvin Klein Jeans will take over the Glamcult Store from March 3rd-12th!

Launching with a bang, come by the store and see the full exhibition of Amsterdam creatives alongside the Calvin Klein Jeans pre-spring ‘23 collection, New Utility.

(From March 18th onwards, we return to the Glamcult curation)