Col3trane Breaks Down the Raw Emotion Behind “Crocodile Tears”

Photographer & Creative Director: @georgemorriss
Photo Assistant: @alexjose.photo
Stylist: @jacobrlevine
Styling Assistants: @aaishahperager & @lenaangelides
MUA: @lydiareedmakeup

Interview: Miles Holder

At just 25, Col3trane has firmly established himself as a pivotal figure in the global R&B landscape. Known for his evocative storytelling and boundary-pushing sound, his latest single, “Crocodile Tears,” is a heartfelt exploration of fading love and emotional burnout. With intimate, hazy harmonies and a commanding vocal performance, the track sees Col3trane and collaborator Chase Shakur delving into themes of giving too much and receiving too little. Reflecting on his creative process and personal growth, Col3trane opens up about his journey, his influences, and his evolving artistry in this exclusive interview with FAULT Magazine.

FAULT Magazine: “Crocodile Tears” feels deeply personal. What was your creative writing process in translating those emotions into your music?

Col3trane: I think I just had a lot to get off my chest at that point in time. It was a transitional time in my life, and I just did my best to channel the frustrations I was feeling into the music without thinking about it too much.

FAULT Magazine: You’ve collaborated with some of the greats. How do these different collaborations influence your approach to songwriting and production, and what did Chase Shakur bring to the table that felt unique for “Crocodile Tears”?

Col3trane: It’s always so inspiring to work with other artists. I always think differently if I’m working on another artist’s project, and I find there’s a lot less ego involved in that type of songwriting. I’ve worked with Chase a few times now, and it’s always so easy. Him and his people are all so talented—it’s a joy to be around them and make music with them. I think you can feel that energy in the music.

FAULT Magazine: Was there a pivotal moment during the writing process where the theme of letting go became clear to you? How did that realization shape the final version of the song?

Col3trane: I think, like I said in the beginning, there was just a lot I wanted to get off my chest. Oftentimes, when I have a lot to say, I don’t think about what I’m saying, and when I leave the studio and listen back to what I’ve done, it’s clear as day what the song is about.

FAULT Magazine: Your work is known for its storytelling. How do you balance raw, emotional narratives with the technical aspects of song structure?

Col3trane: I don’t ever really think about balancing those things, ’cause thinking too much can ruin a good idea really fast. I think it comes with a lot of trial and error over time. I’ve written so many songs that if one in 100 finds that balance, then I’m lucky.

FAULT Magazine: You’ve garnered a lot of success with your previous releases. Do you find yourself in competition with your previous work, or do you see each release as its own personal trajectory?

Col3trane: I try not to think about it, but it does get to me sometimes. I see comments saying, “Bring back Penelope” or “Make more songs like Malibu Sleep,” which is cool. It’s nice that those songs still resonate with people, but I was 17 when I made those, and I’m 25 now. My life and perspective are so different.

I really believe that in this game there’s room for everyone, and competing with the people around you will be your downfall—I’ve seen it happen too many times. But I think a little competition with yourself is good.

FAULT Magazine: What has been the most challenging part of your creative journey so far, and how have those challenges shaped the way you approach new projects?

Col3trane: COVID was a crazy one… for everyone, of course. The label I was signed to kinda fell apart during that mess, but it ended up being a blessing in disguise as I started my own label off the back of that.

Having Trane of Thought has made me think a lot more about the bigger picture and not just the music. I have to think about how every move is going to impact the next. It can be overwhelming, but whenever it feels like that, I just try to remind myself that it has to start with the music, and the music is and will always be the most important thing.

FAULT Magazine: How do you feel your musicality and storytelling have evolved over the years?

Col3trane: I’m not really sure… it’s hard to say. I think I’ve grown up a lot since I released my first project. I’ve learned that simple is okay, but there’s always a time and a place for too much. A lot of life has been lived, and a lot of songs have been written. I’m still always learning so much.

FAULT Magazine: What is your FAULT?

Col3trane: I have a terrible memory, and like Chet Baker, I fall in love too easily. But other than that, I’m alright, I think.