Shy FLW Unleashes '305.': A Confident New Era for the Alternative R&B Artist
Her journey from introspection to unapologetic confidence.
“305.” feels like a turning point — confident, clear, and seriously catchy. What shifted creatively or personally that led to this energy?
Up until now, I’d been more introspective, processing, figuring things out. But with “305.”, I didn’t overthink. I stopped asking for permission and just let it all out. There’s power in knowing who you are and not apologizing for it, and that mindset shift definitely fed the track.
You mentioned writing this in Copenhagen and finishing it in a day — what was the vibe in the room? Did you know right away it was that song?
It was one of those rare sessions where everything just clicked — the beat, the melody, the energy. There was this playful confidence in the air. We weren’t trying to make a hit, we were just creating something that felt true. And yeah, when the hook dropped, we all looked at each other and were like, “Okay, this is something.”
The title “305” ties to California, but also symbolically to your journey. What does “305” mean to you, beyond geography?
“305” is less about a location and more about a mindset. It’s sun-soaked self-belief. It’s stepping into the version of me that’s bold, unfiltered, and not afraid to shine — even if some people aren’t ready for it. It represents freedom, clarity, and finally owning my voice.
There’s this message of “don’t come around now just because it’s working” — was that inspired by real moments or people from your past?
Definitely. I think most artists can relate — when you’re building quietly, not everyone sees you. And that’s okay. But when the energy shifts and things start to click, suddenly the same people who were silent want in. That message is a reminder to protect your energy and stay grounded in the people who believed in you before the spotlight.
Compared to your debut EP until now, “305.” is louder, prouder, more playful. Is this a new era for shy FLW?
Definitely. “until now” felt like cracking open my journal — it was intimate, vulnerable, and unfiltered. “305.” is the flip side: stepping into the light, louder and more fearless. I’m still rooted in that softness, but now I’m not afraid to show the sharper edges too. This next chapter is about embracing the full spectrum — no more either/or, just all of me. I’ve also been finding my sound in a deeper way — playing more with production, pushing my writing style, and letting myself take creative risks without overthinking. It’s been freeing.
You draw inspiration from artists like Doja Cat and FLO — what did you want to channel from them into your own unique sound on this track?
Doja’s playfulness and genre-blending, for sure. And FLO’s smooth harmonies and confidence. I love how they both bring edge and vulnerability without compromising their identity. With “305.”, I wanted to channel that same freedom — something catchy but still clever, fun but rooted in something real.
The line about not shrinking yourself to make others comfortable hits. What helps you stay grounded and self-assured when you feel doubt creeping in?
Honestly? Reminding myself why I started. Music has never been a hobby; it’s always been the thing I had to do. I’ve known from early on that this was my path, even when it didn’t always make sense to other people. I think doubt is part of the process, but I’ve learned that shrinking doesn’t serve anyone. I stay grounded by surrounding myself with people who see me clearly, even when I forget.
Sonically, “305.” blends R&B, pop, and hip-hop elements with ease. What’s your approach when working across genres?
I never walk into a session thinking, “this has to sound like X.” I always lead with feeling. Sometimes I’ll bring in a reference — not because I want to copy it, but as a jumping-off point to spark something. From there, all ideas are on the table. As long as it feels right, it is right. I grew up on a mix of genres — from Scandi pop to blues and musical theatre — so blending styles comes naturally to me. Genre lines feel more fluid than ever now, and I love existing in that in-between space where nothing is off-limits.
You’ve gotten support from both UK and Norwegian radio — how does it feel to represent and connect across both places?
It means so much to me. Having grown up in Norway, so much of who I am was shaped there, and it’s incredibly rewarding to know that my music resonates with people back home. At the same time, I’ve spent the last six years in the UK—three of which I studied music in Liverpool—and my entire artistic journey has unfolded here. The UK has been a huge part of my growth both as a person and as an artist, so connecting with audiences in both places feels deeply meaningful and validating, knowing my music can bridge those experiences.
What’s one thing you want listeners to feel when they hear “305.” — whether it’s in headphones or blasting in the car with windows down?
I want them to feel unapologetic. Like they can take up space, dance, be a little extra, and not second-guess it. Whether you’re healing, hyping yourself up, or just vibing, “305.” is a reminder that your light doesn’t need permission.