009 → poutyface Q+A
Interview
Interview for online publication Gig Goer, with the internet’s newest singer/songwriter, poutyface, to discuss her newfound success and what it takes to be a true modern punk star.
poutyface is a pop-punk poster child. In the past couple of years, the 19-year-old songwriter has transformed a longtime hobby, solely songwriting, into a major professional stride. After signing with Island Records, poutyface quickly gained notoriety with the younger generation when her angsty lyrics and statically-charged sound went viral on Tik Tok and other online platforms, including the singles DEATHWISH and NEVER FUCKIN KNOW.
In the days following the end of the tour with YUNGBLUD, we caught up with the internet star to discuss the transitions she faced in her early musical career.
You were discovered through Voisey, an app that connects musical artists through collaborative songwriting. How has your experience evolved since leaving the virtual space?
Voisey got me back into songwriting after a couple of years of really intense writer’s block. But since then, I’ve actually maintained that collaborative aspect with songwriting, way more than I was before. Now I’m in the studio 3 to 4 times a week with different writers and producers and, because I’m around so many different people, I’m exposed to a lot more creatively than I was before.
Would you say lyrical writing is your main focus during the music production process? If so, why?
Yes, 100% because the story is, in my opinion, the most compelling aspect of a song. I loved creative writing as a kid, even before I got into songwriting. I feel like my job as an artist is to convey a story, an emotion, a message, whatever it is - and I think caring so intently about my lyrics is my way of doing that.
In going from a self-released single, DEATHWISH, to signing with a notable label, where did you find the freedom for self-expression?
I’ve been very fortunate in the relationship I have with my label, where they give me the ultimate say-so in what I want to release. Maintaining absolute creative freedom is a non-negotiable for me and I hope other majors will follow suit and allow more artists to be artists. As far as finding that freedom in myself, I just realized nobody can tell me what to do, how to think, or how to act, and knowing that now as the ultimate truth is liberating.
In another interview, you stated, “I listen to every genre and pull inspiration from every angle. And my taste is constantly changing.” What are some of your current musical inspirations?
I am a massive fan of this band Charly Bliss. George Clanton, Boards of Canada, Underscores, and Basement have been top of my playlist lately.
Give us a few sentences on how the tour has been going with YUNGBLUD? What have you learned?
Absolutely surreal, euphoric. Dom is such a genuine guy and his entire crew has been incredible to work with. I’m standing side stage most nights. His talent for working with the crowd and putting on a high-energy show has taught me a lot about connecting with people and the importance of community. Also, we (my drummer) quickly learned a couple of nights into the tour, gas station eggs are a no-go.
How do you prepare for a show?
We arrive at the venue and load in our gear. My band sets up and I drop my stuff off in the green room, pound a lot of water, do some light vocal warmups, stretch, and listen to music that gets me in the headspace to put on a show. Then we soundcheck, and make sure everything is working properly. Finally, I head back to the room to put on my makeup, do my hair, and get dressed. Then it's showtime!
What is some advice you have for other aspiring young, female artists?
Your body and your looks are the least compelling part of you. What’s in your mind and your heart are your greatest assets. Don’t let anyone convince you otherwise. Stand your ground, embrace your emotions. And always be kind! There is plenty of space for all of us.