On July 3, Ohnoah, the solo project of Rotterdam-based artist, songwriter and producer Nouri Frenken, released ‘Student Loans‘ as its opening statement. Frenken previously achieved gold records and notable chart positions through productions and songwriting for international artists such as Steve Aoki, Miss Montreal and Wulf. With an award-winning background and a catalog exceeding 100 releases, this marks the point where the producer steps into the role of lead artist in alternative pop.
‘Student Loans‘ is an alternative pop track that makes the financial burdens and societal demands placed on young people feel immediate and real. Its production starts with a minimalist approach that builds the feeling of mental and financial pressure, before shifting into a more intense section with driving guitar parts and monumental drum sounds that add power and forward motion to the piece. Writing has served as a necessary form of shelter for Ohnoah, who left an abusive home situation at 17 and navigated a lack of acceptance as a non-binary and queer person in a macho North African/Italian cultural environment by creating through melodies.
Ohnoah had this to say: “For a decade, I gave my best lyrics and productions to others just so I wouldn’t have to face my own reality. ‘Student Loans‘ is the realization that you start at a disadvantage before you even get to shape your own life. We are expected to perform and forge big plans for the future while our foundation is shaking. I just saw free money and a way out of the hell of my household, not knowing what 60k in debt means. This song doesn’t sugarcoat the raw reality, but it offers a shelter for everyone who feels invisible.“
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