Jonnali Parmenius, better known as Noonie Bao, stands as a prominent figure in the world of songwriting, her compositions having amassed a staggering 16 billion streams. Her journey began humbly, marked by self-doubt and pre-written songs presented as spontaneous collaborations. However, her talent and dedication propelled her to international acclaim, culminating in government recognition for her contributions to Swedish music exports. Central to her success is her close collaborative relationship with British pop sensation Charli XCX, whom she describes as akin to family. This bond, forged over a decade ago during a London writing session, has resulted in a prolific partnership, yielding numerous hits, including the Grammy-nominated ”Apple” from Charli XCX’s breakthrough album ”Crash.”
The genesis of ”Apple” took place within the comforting confines of Parmenius’s and her partner Linus Wiklund’s unique studio, nestled behind an unassuming door in a Stockholm garage. This unconventional space, a far cry from the sterile environment of a typical recording studio, features high ceilings, plush furnishings, and warm lighting, fostering a sense of home and creative freedom. It is within this sanctuary that Parmenius and Wiklund, alongside Charli XCX and George Daniel, crafted ”Apple” in a matter of hours, unknowingly creating a song that would resonate globally, fueled by a viral TikTok dance and millions of Spotify streams. This success, while remarkable, hasn’t deterred Parmenius from her forward-focused approach, consistently looking towards the next project rather than dwelling on past achievements.
Parmenius’s creative process emphasizes vulnerability and the willingness to embrace seemingly ”silly” ideas. This ethos, particularly evident in her work with Charli XCX, highlights the importance of a safe and trusting collaborative environment where both artists can freely express themselves without fear of judgment. This dynamic played a crucial role in Charli XCX’s artistic evolution, culminating in the unfiltered authenticity of ”Crash.” The album, a departure from previous works, saw Charli XCX explore deeply personal themes, including the complexities of motherhood and career aspirations in ”I think about it all the time,” a song inspired by Parmenius’s own experience of motherhood. This candid approach resonated with audiences, propelling ”Crash” to widespread critical acclaim and commercial success.
The success of ”Crash” marked a turning point in Charli XCX’s career, a testament to her artistic growth and willingness to embrace vulnerability. This journey, intertwined with Parmenius’s own, showcases the power of collaboration and the importance of fostering a supportive creative space. Their mutual encouragement, symbolized by the annual ”This is your year” message, underscores their shared belief in each other’s potential. While Parmenius acknowledges the challenges faced by women in the music industry, particularly the societal pressures surrounding motherhood and career, she remains determined to defy these expectations, inspiring other female artists to pursue their dreams without compromise.
Parmenius’s decision to base her operations in Stockholm reflects a conscious choice to maintain a grounded perspective amid the whirlwind of the music industry. This contrasts with the increasingly challenging environment of Los Angeles, where rising living costs have stifled the creative energy that once drew musicians from around the world. Parmenius envisions Stockholm as a new creative hub, leveraging the city’s wealth of talented songwriters and producers, and her own studio as a magnet for aspiring artists. This vision speaks to her commitment to fostering a vibrant and accessible music scene, one that prioritizes artistic development over commercial pressures.
Despite her international success, Parmenius maintains a refreshingly humble demeanor, often overlooking the importance of celebrating her achievements. Her focus remains firmly on the creative process, driven by a passion for music and a desire to nurture emerging talent. Her story, from hesitant beginnings to Grammy-nominated success, underscores the transformative power of collaboration, the importance of embracing vulnerability, and the unwavering pursuit of artistic vision. Her commitment to creating a supportive and inspiring environment, both within her unique studio and the broader music community, positions her as a vital force in shaping the future of music.
