top of page

5 Songs I Love w/ Catalina Cara

  • Alice Smith
  • 4 days ago
  • 2 min read

Following the release of her latest single 'Shinon', Flex caught up with Moldovan-Romanian artist Catalina Cara. Known for her captivating alt-pop sound, we wanted to find out what influences her vibrant sound. If you enjoy Catalina's picks, be sure to check out 'Shinon' at the end of the article.


1. Sampha – Plastic 100°C 

There’s something hauntingly beautiful about how Sampha blends vulnerability with experimental textures and rich auditory layers. This track is so raw, warm and so human. There is such a genuine emotional presence and honesty in both his voice and his lyrics. It reminds me to stay present in the chaos and embrace it along with my insecurities and self-doubts. Because that’s OK. 


2. Sault – Fearless

Sault's sound is fresh, bold, and constantly evolving. I love their ability to blend so many influences, while maintaining a sense of coolness and depth. 


“Fearless” is hypnotic. It’s like a mantra, rooting me in my own power and not letting me forget about the importance of staying true to myself. The song reflects that inner struggle between vulnerability and strength, that is also found in my song “Shinon” and I love how it carries both resistance and softness, making you want to embrace your emotions while pushing through them.


3. Erykah Badu – On & On

I love the idea that life moves in cycles — that everything flows on & on. It’s a theme I often return to in my own writing, both lyrically and visually. Erykah’s flow, her voice, her energy … it feels like she’s channeling a higher wisdom through her art. To me, she’s one of those rare artists who are both timeless and ahead of their time.


“On & On” reminds me that my soul doesn’t have to be loud to be powerful. I can only truly create and feel joy when I’m deeply connected to myself and my roots, while still allowing my thoughts,  dreams and spirit to have a continuous dialogue with the universe.


4. Solange – Cranes in the Sky

Solange blends sensitivity and elegance beautifully and effortlessly here and it inspired me to explore emotional textures more deeply in my own music. “Cranes in the Sky” is, for me, the perfect balance between vulnerability and control. That feeling connects with me deeply, not only as a songwriter, but as a full-on person too. 


I fell in love with Solange’s work the moment I discovered her—not just musically, but also through her artistic vision, style, and fashion sense.


5. Herbie Hancock – Chameleon

“Chameleon,” in collaboration with The Headhunters, is playful, bold, funky, yet deeply intelligent, and was truly ahead of its time. I’ve always admired Herbie Hancock’s genius and his willingness to experiment, blend genres, and push sonic boundaries.


I was mesmerised when I first heard his music! Those synths, the taste, that style… and it still sounds so fresh! It’s undoubtedly one of my all-time favorites. Cinematic, colorful, eclectic, and constantly shifting, it brings something new every time I listen to it, just like a real chameleon.


Watch Catalina Cara 'Shinon'



Σχόλια


  • Facebook
  • Instagram
bottom of page