The Artist Explains: Karima Francis - 'Orange Rose'
London based singer-songwriter Karima Francis talks to us about self destruction, seedy karaoke bars and filming in Vegas for her melancholic indie single, ‘Orange Rose’.
Where was the video filmed?
I filmed the video out in Las Vegas, I love it out there so much. Beautiful colours and 70’s vibe.
How does the video connect with the song?
The video story is about self destruction, running away from your problems by engaging in substances.
Do you have any behind the scenes stories you could share with us?
Yeah, we went to this really dingy Karaoke bar called dinos. It was so seedy, there was 60s porn playing on screens all around the room. It’s actually where the scene at the red table was filmed.
I actually got up and sang a song as filmed it for the video but this footage didn’t make the final video.
Can you tell us about the ideas/themes/imagery used?
I wanted to capture that run down spacious desert vibe. The colours were based a lot on one of my favourite films, Paris Texas, that and Lost in Translation.
Is there a message the video is trying to convey?
Yes, you’re only making things worse by self destructing, it’s very isolating. I guess it’s something I did to try to help myself and others that unhealthy behaviours can impact mental health so much more. If anyone reading this is suffering, please try to talk to someone I’ve learnt that keeping it inside is torturous.
Interview by Karla Harris