INTERVIEW: GIRLI

It used to play a much more prominent role in my music, as a teenager writing songs growing up in London, British music influenced my sound and my lyrics as I was developing myself as an artist. Now I think the main thing that influences my music is people and personal stories, which have happened all over the world as I’ve travelled more, and my sound too is more inspired by music made on other continents, like the US and Asia.

How did the success your music keep getting as you were working on the record influence your work in it? Did you feel any sort of pressure or rather the opposite?

I felt an immense pressure from my record label at the time for the record to be a success, and I think the way that affected my mental health shows in how honest and diary-entry like some of the songs are on Odd One Out. In terms of success in music, I’ve always had a slow and steady growth of fans with my releases, so I haven’t really experienced a “blowing up” “sudden fame” moment. I think it’s kept me grounded so far.

What aspect of your own personal life do you get to explore on this record?

Every aspect. Falling in love for the first time, losing friends, figuring out my sexuality, dealing with sexism, being queer, suffering from anxiety and depression, heartbreak. I left nothing out!

Where else do you find the inspiration for the songs and lyrics?

I got a lot of inspiration from punk bands like X-Ray Specs and The Slits when making this record, as well as from electro-pop artists like La Roux, Icona Pop, Robyn. Lyrically, I try to tell each song like a story. Before I started making music I wrote short stories and fiction at school, so lyrics are particularly important to me. I want them to communicate what I’m thinking so clearly to the listener but also say it in a way that it’s never been said before.

Any plans to hit the road?

After the pandemic is over and the world gets back to normal, yes! This summer I’m going on the road for my rescheduled Sofa Tour, playing in fans’ living rooms across the UK, and in November I’m going on my Triple Threat Tour, playing across the UK & Europe with badass female artists Cassyette and July Jones.

What else is happening next in GIRLI’s world?