Archive: May, 2026
David Franj (David Aldo Frangiosa), Award-Winning Singer-Songwriter, and His Return to Contemporary Music
Editorial: I must admit, I have not had the opportunity to go through your latest, massive 'archive' release of singles yet, but what I have listened to is fantastic. Stepping away from your massive co-writes—and being a fan of your own early, quiet releases over the years—I am loving what I hear. These new songs, while different, are still very much you, if that makes sense. Beautiful verses that weave into big, catchy choruses. Is that a fair analysis?
David Franj: Thank you, and I appreciate that you have listened to some of the new songs; it is very humbling and generous. It is a fair analysis. I have always naturally gravitated toward a style of writing where I look for the catchiest verse that moves me, building into a very big, anthemic chorus if possible. Obviously, my writing has progressed in different ways over the years, so it’s a bit of an experience for people to see that journey through these new releases.
Editorial::That definitely makes sense. "Let You Go" really has me at the moment. I was so surprised to learn you wrote and recorded that back in 2009. I am just astounded by how you could hide away such a gem. Wasn't it killing you not to release it?
(Laughter from DF) David Franj: I have never viewed it that way, simply because politics enters the equation. There is then an expectation to do all of the things I have worked to avoid, like promotional tours and dealing with the corporate entities that I have spent many years doing my utmost to steer clear of. There were attempts around the time it was recorded to place the song with other artists, but industry politics ruined that as well. Keeping the song under wraps was never a loss for me because it remains an untouched gem that I am only now willing to share. You can view it through the filter of a session songwriter as a financial opportunity that should have—but never—eventuated, or as a song that deserved to be heard by many people and performed by a great artist. But you learn quickly not to dwell on these things.
Editorial:: That's a great explanation. How was the process different with your mega-hit song "Perfect" compared to then having to pitch a song like "Let You Go" and getting it placed? Shouldn't it have been easy at that stage?
(Laughter) David Franj: It's all timing. "Perfect" was presented just as a range of things were synchronizing for a group of different people, including myself. The rest was hard work and a great song capturing the public's attention. It really isn't difficult when people don't complicate things, and when ego and greed don't spoil a process that can actually be very streamlined. My guess is that "Let You Go" just never had the chance to find the right artist and a good team back then. Those combinations are rare these days. You have plenty of songs and productions that can be sourced through brilliant writers and performers, but standards are low and execution is styled like fast food.
Editorial:: That's a great analogy. "Perfect" is now a record-breaking song that has achieved unparalleled airplay for an Australian artist or writer since 2000. It achieved massive radio saturation, remaining in top rotation as one of the most played songs on Australian radio over a record-breaking 125-week period.
(Laughter) David Franj: Apparently so. From the perspective of an artist, writer, or even somebody just getting on with things, you let those things naturally evolve. Obviously, I remain completely appreciative and just keep doing my best to be better.
Editorial:: That is a very grounded and sensible way to look at it. I want to digress for a moment. There are other headlines you are making at the moment...
(David laughs as if he already knows what is coming)
Editorial:: You have shed and evolved beyond your pretty-boy image and, if I may be so blunt to say, have become a handsome silver fox who is not going unnoticed by the media and many others.
(Laughter) David Franj: The plan was always to grow into and use my elegant parents as a model for how I carry myself in these mature years. That being said, I am extremely flattered by any compliments. I try to represent myself as best I can.
Editorial:: That is an eloquent and humble answer. So how do the comparisons to George Clooney and other silver foxes like Patrick Dempsey make you feel? You are often described as "the mysterious George Clooney and Patrick Dempsey of music."
(David laughs) David Franj: Again, it is very flattering. I simply see David Franj doing his best David Franj. If I step outside of that for a moment, then I can objectively say that it is very nice to know that I may be moving people the same way I am moved by those whose work and presentation have inspired me.
Editorial:: Can you mention some of those people?
David Franj: Hmmm, I feel like I am sharing too much of my special and private inspiration if I do that! But I will say my parents and the example they set. They both arrived in Australia as migrants from Italy without any material wealth, but both carried themselves impeccably. More importantly, they were amazing and compassionate people. So, that is pretty much it.