CELIIN, the Norwegian artist with a history steeped in both childhood fame and a purposeful retreat from the limelight, steps forward once again, this time with a deeply personal and poignant narrative in her new release, “French Lilies.”
A cinematic orchestral pop song born from a decade-long battle with vulvodynia – a chronic pain condition affecting the vulva – the single ventures into the complex terrain of physical and emotional pain intertwined with sexual experiences.
The track navigates through a delicate and often unspoken topic – how the pursuit of sexual pleasure, particularly when grappling with a condition like vulvodynia, can push one’s boundaries to the brink of self-destruction.
“French Lilies” is not just a song; it is CELIIN’s open letter, a vulnerable sharing of her struggles, and an attempt to raise awareness about female health issues like vulvodynia and vaginismus, which affect countless women globally, often in silence.
The lyrics mirror a story of someone immersed in a sexual act, diverting their attention to the intricate stucco patterns – the French lilies – on the ceiling to distract from both physical and psychological pain. CELIIN portrays a passive participant, committed to providing pleasure at the cost of personal agony, resulting in long-term trauma.
CELIIN’s journey in the music industry is one of notable distinction and evolution. From winning the Eurovision Song Contest for children at age 11 and achieving platinum status with her debut album to becoming a recognized name on Disney Channel Scandinavia, she has experienced the spectrum of stardom.
Post-2015, after engaging audiences in “Stjernekamp” – one of Norway’s most-watched TV shows – she receded from the spotlight, creating space for personal and creative growth.
This period culminated in her re-emergence as CELIIN, an artist whose music melds melancholy and elegance, blending various influences from The Neighborhood to Debussy and Lana Del Rey.
Her musical diary candidly unfolds through cinematic, progressive pop, infused with elements from jazz and rock, where she navigates the intricate balance between beauty and macabre.
With “French Lilies,” she illustrates a theme that resonates profoundly in a society where discussions around sexual health and enjoyment, especially concerning women, remain oddly taboo.
Her message echoes two pivotal thoughts: a love for sex can persist even when physical reciprocity is absent, and embodying a femme fatale persona is possible, albeit with some mindful adjustments to accommodate physical realities.
CELIIN’s raw and vulnerable approach to her music, especially with this latest release, offers a bridge to understanding, empathy, and, hopefully, more open dialogues about the realities many silently endure.
Her sonic narratives, wrapped in an alluring melange of musical genres, beckon listeners into a world where authenticity reigns supreme, serving as a gentle reminder that amidst the glamor and allure of melodies, real stories with real emotions prevail.
Listen to “French Lilies” below!
Note: If you or someone you know is struggling with a similar issue, you’re not alone. Resources and support networks are available.
#Peace.Love.CELIIN
