An Introduction to Frayne Vibez
Photo Credit: @nickshoots
Being one of the few Chicago-centric music publications, our team often has the privilege of getting introduced to members of the city’s music community on the early end of their careers. For our first interview of the new year, we’re happy to share that experience with our readers through a conversation with the multi-disciplinary talent that is Frayne Vibez. With his debut releases still ahead of him, the Chicago native has taken the approach of introducing his music via an exceptional live set that’s already graced the stages of Lollapalooza and Chance the Rapper & Social Works’ Night at the Museum concert. Get to know a bit about Frayne through the Q+A below, and join us next week at Schuba’s as we have our own opportunity to see Frayne Vibez & his musical collaborators for the first time live at one of our favorite venues in the city.
Hey Frayne, to kick things off - can you introduce yourself to our readers?
Absolutely, hey everyone! Born here in Chicago, I go by the name of Frayne Vibez. I’m a singer, songwriter, producer, and rapper. I recently graduated from Loyola University as well. I had a real double life happening between music and school. I simply want to do my part in this crazy world and hopefully help people by way of this beautiful art form we call music that I love dearly. I want to show people that it’s okay to be themselves no matter what, and that they’re not alone. Anything you put your mind to, you can do it with hard work and determination. I want to be a light and inspiration for others in that regard.
You come from quite the musical family, how did that play into the role music had in your life early on as well as your entry into making your own?
My family being musical played an immense role. From my earliest memories, music has been an integral part of my life. My parents infused our home with melodies and rhythms from their favorite tunes. My Mom and Dad would jam to classics from the R&B, Jazz, Pop, and Rock genres. Anything from SWV and Marvin Gaye to Peter Gabriel, Earth, Wind, and Fire and of course Ramsey Lewis. Being young, I was heavily influenced by hip hop as well. At a very young age I vividly recall accompanying my Dad to his studio sessions too. All of those experiences helped shape me into who I am today. My journey with music officially began at the age of 6 when I started taking piano lessons. Despite being surrounded by melodies from a young age due to my family being so involved with music, with my grandpa being Ramsey Lewis and my dad being Frayne Lewis Sr., I struggled early on with finding my own voice. However, it was in high school that I immersed myself in the art of listening and began to cultivate a deeper connection with the world of music around me. I came to understand why my family fell in love with the craft and when I told them I wanted to create a vibe of my own they gave me a smile that read “it’s about time.”
Themes of individualism, defying stereotypes & finding your own joy were central in our last discussion; what can you share with our audience about what those ideas mean to you & how they inform your approach?
Individualism is so crucial because in itself it defies stereotypes and in turn creates your own joy. I had to go on my own journey of self discovery to realize this, and in high school is where it began. I felt so alone and scrutinized for just being me and I couldn’t understand it. But the answer was in front of me all along. There was nothing to understand, if people don’t accept you for being yourself then that is simply their problem, not yours. Being an individual and comfortable in your own skin is one of, if not the most beautiful and important things that can happen because the voices of negativity and judgment become distant noise and you begin to see yourself blossom among the vines that try to lock you down from your potential. Music is what talked me through everything on this journey, it was therapy for me in some of the darkest times. Music has become the best way I know to convey that message and share with people that they’re not alone and instead they are fully loved.
How would you describe the sound you're cultivating & where do you think it sits within the city’s music scenes?
I would characterize my sound as urban alternative pop with a significant infusion of influences from a myriad of genres across the musical spectrum. Just as in many of us, I have different sides to my character. I don’t want to feel boxed in. I’m a complete sponge, I love listening, experiencing, and creating all types of music. It all inspires me and I’m in awe of it every time. In Chicago I feel like this scene isn’t highlighted enough. I want to help open people's eyes to a different side of Chicago’s music scene.
You had the opportunity to play Lollapalooza this past year, how special did that feel as a kid from Chicago?
Playing at Lollapalooza this past year was incredible. In high school I remember the hype around it and people freaking out at the lineups each year so seeing my name on it this time around took me aback and I couldn’t believe it. I had the honor to build an amazing show with producer/mentor Kosine and my beyond talented band. The day of the show it was actually raining so that made me nervous if people would still come out. However, when I got on the stage not only were people in front of the stage standing in the rain but there were hundreds of people in raincoats underneath the trees watching and in that moment I remember my heart got warm and I immediately got goosebumps. I saw with my own eyes how powerful music is. I was overwhelmed with love and joy and the rain actually added to the performance. It felt like a dream.
You are performing at Schuba’s on January 9th, what can you tell us about what you have in store for that set?
Yes I will be performing at Schubas on January 9th and I cannot wait! My organization Good Vibez Only partnered with Fusion of Light to create "The Alternate Univerze". The Alternate Univerze was an idea I formulated and called on Jordan Blair and Tandrea Hawkins, owners of Fusion of Light Entertainment to co-curate this show and help bring the vision to life. This event shines a spotlight on music performances in the alternative urban pop and alternative hip-hop genres, extending a warm invitation to individuals from all walks of life who often go unnoticed or unheard in our city. There's no room for judgment; it's a place to come together. For my set I am over the moon to play my new music and bring people into the world that I’m creating. My band will be there in full effect levitating the show even more and it will be a perfect start to the year.
Lastly for now, what’s important for us to know about Frayne Vibez heading into 2024?
I prefer to focus on taking each step as it comes, living in the moment, and doing what I love. By immersing myself in the present, I naturally progress into the future. Currently, my priority is getting ready for my show on January 9th at Schubas, releasing new music in 2024, and walking into the next era of my musical journey.
Good Vibez Only & Fusion of Light present