RobinAugust On the Making Of “Boy Obsessed”
How does "Boy Obsessed" reflect your musical journey and growth as an artist?
Rediscovering Boy Obsessed after years of refining my style reminded me that I’ve always had a love for music with attitude. My interest in riot grrrl started at a very young age and continues to make itself present in the music I write now. Something that I have always admired about this style of writing is that it creates a theatrical environment to perform as a caricature of myself.
Can you share any memorable experiences or stories from performing "Boy Obsessed" live?
I performed Boy Obsessed for the first time this last Saturday at The Blue Room with my co-writer and childhood best friend, Mercy Capellino. It was so surreal getting to perform the song we wrote at 8 years old on a stage with people singing along. We had always imagined ourselves being backed by a band in a real venue. A few hours prior to performing together, Boy Obsessed was also played on the radio station, WNXP Nashville 91.1. The whole day was very emotional for us.
What did you enjoy most about making "Boy Obsessed?"
My favorite part about making Boy Obsessed was turning something I was insecure about into something that empowered me. As a kid, I was constantly told that I was too dramatic or “too much” for people. Instead of pretending I wasn’t, I created a character that allowed me to be as girly and dramatic as possible while simultaneously feeling indestructible.
What inspired you to pursue a career in music?
I’ve never questioned what I’ve wanted to do with my life. My earliest memories are performing a mixtape of songs sung by women (a cd made for drag queens) in front of my stuffed animals. It became clear to me that this dream was possible after seeing Joan Jett live and learning about her teenage band “The Runaways”. A week following the show I formed a Runaways tribute band called “Queens of Noise” which helped introduce me into the Nashville music scene. We recently stopped playing together after seven years of being active.
Are there any specific artists or musicians you dream of collaborating with?
If I could choose anyone to collaborate with right nowit’d be Haley Williams. The trajectory of her career perfectly aligns with the visions I have for my own . If not collaborating, I’d love to pick her brain over a coffee.
