Does the name Alice Phoebe Lou ring a bell? If it doesn't, you're missing out on a voice that's both ethereal and grounded, a songwriter who crafts intimate worlds with her music and a spirit as independent as the city she calls home: Berlin.
With a voice that effortlessly floats between folk, blues, and a touch of soul, Alice Phoebe Lou has carved a unique space in the music world. Her songs are more than just melodies; they are stories, reflections, and invitations to experience the world through her eyes. From her early days busking on the streets of Berlin to gracing stages across the globe, her journey has been a testament to her artistic vision and unwavering dedication.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Alice Phoebe Lou (born Alice Matthew) |
| Born | July 19, 1993, in Kommetjie, Cape Town, South Africa |
| Nationality | South African |
| Occupation | Musician, Singer-Songwriter |
| Genres | Folk, Blues, Indie Pop |
| Instruments | Vocals, Guitar |
| Associated Acts | Paper Castles, Strongboi (side project) |
| Years Active | 2012 Present |
| Notable Releases | "Orbit" (Debut album), "Paper Castles" (Single), "Shelter" (Released March 10, 2023) |
| Other Notable Information | Song "She" from the film "Bombshell: The Hedy Lamarr Story" was shortlisted for an Academy Award in 2017. |
| Website | Alice Phoebe Lou Official Website |
Alice Phoebe Lou's path wasn't paved with the usual aspirations of a pop star. Music wasn't her initial pursuit. It sort of happened to her organically, a natural evolution. As a teenager, involved in theater and dancing, she wasn't necessarily planning a career in music. Yet, at 16, she took a significant step, leaving behind the familiar comfort of high school and the known, a decision that set the stage for her future.
Her journey began in Cape Town, South Africa, where she was born. However, at the tender age of 19, the pull of exploration proved irresistible. She made the bold move to Berlin, Germany, a city that would become both her home and her muse. Berlin, with its vibrant cultural scene and anything-goes atmosphere, provided the perfect backdrop for her artistic growth. The move from Cape Town, a place she describes as dark and violent, to the creative energy of Berlin, had a profound impact, fueling her songwriting with new perspectives and experiences.
From the outset, Alice embraced a fiercely independent approach to her music. Developing her sound on the streets of Berlin, busking became her initial stage. It wasn't just a means of making money to pay rent; it was her training ground, a crucible where she honed her craft and connected with audiences on a deeply personal level. Busking, as she candidly admits, is "hard and fucking humiliating". Yet, it was the crucible where she developed a connection with the audience. The city's streets transformed into her classroom, the melodies of passing vehicles a constant soundtrack to her evolving style.
Her independent spirit shines through every aspect of her work. She writes her own music, performs with friends who are also real friends, and navigates the industry on her own terms. This creative freedom allows her to craft authentic songs, raw with emotion and filled with personal narrative. In a world often dominated by manufactured pop, Alice Phoebe Lou stands as a beacon of authenticity, crafting music that resonates with the soul.
The city's pulse is in her music. She appreciates the sound of a "guitar on a shitty amplifier," a sound that echoes the struggles and triumphs of everyday life in a bustling city, a sound she has embraced, recognizing its inherent beauty. Its the sound of someone who is trying to find their footing in a big city. This raw, unfiltered approach is a cornerstone of her artistry.
2022 marked a significant moment in her career: the first year since 2015 that she hadn't released a single. The break, however, didnt signal an end, but rather a moment of reflection. The anticipation surrounding her next release amplified the excitement of her fans. That hiatus made the subsequent release of "Shelter" even more captivating.
"Shelter," released on March 10, 2023, is a testament to her musical evolution. The song reflects the vulnerability and strength woven into her art. The lyrics, penned under the weight of vulnerability, reveal the care at her core. These songs, the music, are not just individual pieces but a journey of exploring and expressing the complexities of the human experience. "Shelter" is another layer to her sound.
Alice Phoebe Lou's impact extends beyond her solo work. She is also a member of the band Paper Castles, adding further dimension to her musical explorations. The side project, Strongboi, launched in 2019, showcases another side of her creative energies. Her versatility as a musician is something to be admired, her work in the side projects showcases her versatility.
In December 2017, her song "She" from the film "Bombshell: The Hedy Lamarr Story" earned her a spot on the Oscars shortlist for Best Original Song, a significant achievement that highlighted her artistic talent on a global stage. The recognition was a testament to her skill in crafting evocative music that resonates deeply. The nomination and the impact it had on her career. This marked a significant achievement and opened doors to a wider audience.
The streets of Berlin continue to be her favored stage. Her approach to the city has evolved. It is now her home. It is a place that has shaped her sound, her songwriting, and her approach to life. She describes Berlin as a city filled with various shapes and colours.
Her touring schedule is also a story in itself. It is important to note that in early 2024, she took just a couple of months off before embarking on her 2024 North American tour, starting in Cambridge, MA. This relentless touring schedule shows her dedication to sharing her music with the world.
Alice's fiercely independent approach has garnered a dedicated global fan base, and the reason for her success is clear. She's built an exceptional career from a base of authenticity and creative freedom. Her music provides an escape for listeners and a source of inspiration for aspiring artists.
Having left Cape Town, South Africa, when she was 19 and making a home in Berlin, Alice Phoebe Lou's artistic journey is not just a path to fame, but a celebration of music, of life, and the power of the individual voice. She shows us how true authenticity and a passion for music can create a world where every note resonates with feeling, and every lyric paints a vivid picture. Alice is much more than a musician, but she's a storyteller, a visionary, and a voice of the modern age. The future of her music is bright.
