ALISON COHEN On the Making Of “Deep End”
What was the initial spark or idea that led to the creation of "Deep End"?
I wrote “Deep End” shortly after graduating from college about the transition to adulthood. This was during peak pandemic time, and I was doing a lot of introspection and evaluation about the kind of person I want to be. I realized that while I was so thankful for the guidance that I had received from my parents and teachers growing up, I needed to take this opportunity to take charge of the decisions in my own life. I love the metaphor of being tossed into the deep end of the swimming pool with the mental knowledge of how to swim, but you get to learn to go through the motions yourself. While in some ways this was overwhelming, there was also a new kind of complete freedom I had never experienced before. I wanted to capture that feeling in the drop. I love it when the feeling of the music matches what’s described in the lyrics.
Can you talk about the recording and production process for this single?
I recorded and produced “Deep End” in my apartment. The vocals are the only track that was recorded live while, everything else is synthesizers or samples. I’m a huge perfectionist when producing and love the process of creating a captivating musical arc. Producing and mixing my own music gives me the ability to fully conceptualize the idea. While I also love collaborating and bringing different minds into the mix, there’s something so satisfying about knowing that you created every sound in the final product.
Have you noticed any particular interpretations or connections that listeners have made with this release?
I’ve noticed that people connect to the sense of relaxed freedom in the song. It’s the perfect song for a drive with the windows down or a sunset at the beach. Growing up, my parents played so much 80s music that, at this point, it seems to be ingrained in my musical identity. Everything I create ends up with a bit of that 80s essence, especially in the synth sounds I’m drawn to. In “Deep End”, I love the very 80s sounding drum fill right before the drop. I try to create a sound that’s a perfect blend of nostalgic elements within a modern sound and I think my listeners really pick up on that.
What inspired you to pursue a career in music?
I’ve been singing since I could talk and started writing and producing music in high school. I love when people connect to the feeling in the music I’ve created. I’ve always felt that I was meant to sing. My parents named me after the song “Alison” by Elvis Costello, so maybe they knew I would be musically inclined as well. Since graduating from the Frost School of Music at the University of Miami, I’ve been working hard to continue creating, while also balancing my career as a software engineer.
What are some of the biggest challenges you have faced as a musician, and how did you overcome them?
To work in music, you need to have thick skin. I’ve had to learn to take criticism with a grain of salt and accept that my music isn’t for everyone. Additionally, fulfillment won’t come from seeking external validation or fame. I’ve reached a point where I make the music that I want to make and extend an invite to anyone who wants to join me on my journey. The process of creating music brings me joy and I hope that others can also connect with it in ways that are meaningful to them.
