Alex Uhlmann is one of those artists who’s hard to pin down, and that’s what makes him so interesting. You might know him as the musical director for The Voice Italy, or maybe for the gold and platinum records he’s earned in Italy, or even the awards he’s grabbed in the UK. Now, he’s getting ready to release his debut solo album, HOME, on September 20, 2024, and people are already talking. Before that, though, we get a taste with his single Fading Away, dropping on September 6th and already making waves. Fading Away hooks you with its mix of hip-hop beats and classical strings, creating a dynamic and powerful vibe. It’s inspired by real-life events, which adds an extra layer of depth to the track. As the album release nears, Alex is ready to share his journey, and we’ll get a chance to explore HOME, his creative process, and the stories behind his music.

Photo by @alexuhlmannmusic

V. Hi Alex, you were born in Luxembourg but have lived in major cities like London, Paris, Bologna, Berlin, and Milan. Is there a place you consider your “musical home“?

My first solo album Home which is out in late September bears this title because after years of ‘searching’ for a home in Europe I not only came to the conclusion that the journey is the real destination, but also that it doesn’t really matter where I really feel at home, what really counts is that I can make my music… without compromise. So in a certain way I guess my music is my home.

V. As the musical director of The Voice Italy, you constantly work with emerging artists and see them trying to find their way in the music industry. What is it like to be on the other side of the stage and critically evaluate others’ performances, given that you’ve been through so many stages of development yourself?

It’s strange sometimes and often I see younger versions of myself in the contestants that we cast. It’s really difficult out there to ‘make it’ as a musician, it was difficult in my days and it’s probably even harder today.. What I usually look for is authenticity, if you can be original today, that’s thirty/forty percent of what you need. The rest is talent and motivation..

V. In 2021, you took a decisive step by starting a solo career after working with a group. This is undoubtedly a major change, and many artists face difficulties transitioning from group work to solo activity. What was it like for you to confront this new reality?

To be honest it doesn’t really change that much, some things are easier, some are harder but at the end of the day what matters is to be doing what I love onstage or in a rehearsal room.. if I can do that with friends who share the same passion, even better..

V. With the release of your debut solo album ‘HOME,’ you’re approaching an important milestone in your career. Can you tell us what listeners can expect from this album?

It’s an album I’m extremely proud of. 10 songs which represent me completely, without any compromise or strategy. I’m well aware that albums today are hardly relevant and if you don’t try to write the perfect single you are probably crazy but to be honest, I don’t really mind.. what counts for me is to have written what’s on my mind and put it into music in a way I feel extremely comfortable with. I’d like to mention my co producer Luca La Morgia who has been vital for this and also Steve Lyon who helped me find my sound.

V. What led you to choose the title “HOME” for your debut album? 

As I mentioned before, I’ve come to realize that a journey is not just about reaching a destination, but also about understanding that it doesn’t matter where I feel at home. What truly matters is that I can create my music without compromise. In this sense, I believe that my music is my home.

V. The music video for your main single “Fading Away,” directed by Nico Malaspina, left a strong impression on me. The story in the video touches emotions so deeply that it raises the question: was this storyline inspired by any personal experience or emotion?

Thank you The Video of fading away tells the tragic story of Ukrainian ballet dancer Irina Hordiienko ,who was invited in February 2022 by the Ukrainian Academy of Ballet in Milan to attend a two week stage. While in Italy however, the war in Ukraine started and Irina and her mother have not been able to come home to reunite with their family. Shortly after the stage the two women, not knowing where to go or what to do, by coincidence met video director Nico Malaspina’s wife who, captured by their story decided to take them in and share her home with them ever since: This tragic story of war and separation, but also of hope, humanity and hospitality has moved me to the  Point of absolutely wanting it to be told.

V. What elements of the video do you consider most important for conveying the mood of the song?

The imagination of dancer Irina who puts all her hope for a better world in her passion for ballet. It’s a very strong message. Very inspiring..

V. Do you ever have doubts or fears when creating a song and openly sharing your experiences through music?

Yes because it’s very private and you’re opening to the world. Many artists hold back on their emotions and basically sell soulless ‘content’. It’s much harder to be honest. But sometimes this honest is appreciated but it needs an attentive public, willing to stop and listen rather then skimping to the next ‘content’..

V. You’ve achieved success in music with the same passion and determination you displayed in tennis tournaments as a teenager. Do you ever feel that success in music is somewhat a continuation of that same competitive spirit, but now on a musical stage?

Certainly tennis at competitive level has helped me in a lot of ways. Discipline for example and working hard to achieve certain goals.

V. After the release of the album ‘HOME,’ what are the next steps you plan for your career? Are there any dreams or ambitions that you haven’t yet fulfilled?

I’m pretty happy where I’m at right now. But I wouldn’t say no to a world tour with this album.

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