Poppy
Poppy is a multi-hyphenate, Grammy-nominated “enigma turned star.” As an artist, singer-songwriter, and video director, she started her work in entertainment through dance vignettes and viral influence on YouTube. After finding an authentic connection within her music, she became attached to its meaning. She began to express herself through the lyrics behind it: singing, screaming, and digging deep within her creative vision. Her forthcoming album, Zig, is her newest manifestation of sound, with bold, electronic beats and deep metal rock riffs reminiscent of early 90s industrial sounds.
Shirt by MIKIO SAKABE
Knit Bikini by DEFAÏENCE
Belt by DEFAÏENCE
Tell us about your start in the creative world and how that has led you to where you are now.
I started writing songs before I was courageous enough to sing in front of people. But I started uploading short videos to the YouTube platform in 2015.
Can you separate yourself behind the scenes from your persona to the public?
There’s not a distinct line where one part of me ends and the other begins, I know that answer is quite unnerving to some because it’s not definitive.
You’ve explored countless genres of music and expression. How would you define Zig, its sound, and how it differs from past albums?
Zig is the most HiFi album I have released and it’s a chapter in time to me. I wanted to make a record I could have dance videos for and I did that.
Describe your aesthetic as an artist throughout the years, and what inspires it to evolve?Going where I haven’t been before. Following the feeling. Aesthetically it’s what piques my interest at the time and the world crashes into each other.
Tell us about your personal style right now. What are some favorite pieces you’ve worn lately representative of you?
I’ve been wearing a number of pieces from Shu Shu Tong lately. The fit is nice and the style is femme. I heard about ShuShu maybe 3-4 years back at this point and I love how each collection is fresh but also classic. For Couture I love Comme De Garçon but for newer designers that I have discovered I love Mila Sullivan, and I got the cutest stockings from Gret Garmel recently which I adore.
Describe a standard Poppy fan. What is your favorite thing about them?
I don't think there is a standard. But I love the merging of subcultures. At my shows I look into the audience and see the art nerds, the drag queens, LGBT, the metal kids, the tech nerds, the young peppy littles, the single, older males, the recluse ones who make their foray into the outside world once in a blue moon and end up at my show. The girls who drag their boyfriend, the boys who drag their girlfriends, I love it all.
Bodysuit by KIM PERETS
Rings by METALBELLY
Shoes by STYLIST’S OWN
What is your approach to songwriting/creation, and what song on your upcoming album are you the most excited about?
Lyrically I feel Flicker, Prove It, and the Attic are close to me.
What was the inspiration behind your music video, Motorbike?
Empowerment, The film stars Marianne Faithful, and the fact that I stare a little longer at girl on a motorbike when I see one.
You’re known for your creative and unique approaches to your artistic vision. How do you approach creative direction?
I have to feel good.
What does Zig mean to you?
A student jerk or change of direction. Which excites me.
Have any artists influenced your music or inspired you lately?
I always go back to Gary Numan. I love Burial and I was listening to a lot of Cocteau twins recently.
You were nominated for Best Metal Performance at the 2021 Grammys. What's your favorite thing about performing?
You have to be present for it.
Full look by MOSCHINO
(All Moschino including shoes, cuffs, jewelry)
What is your favorite thing to do in your free time?
I like to build Legos.
Is there an art form or any creative project you haven't engaged in and would love to try?Of course.
What are some upcoming events, tour dates, or projects to which we can look forward?I'm going to Europe and the UK in January and February as well as other dates we are about to announce, so that’s lovely.
Left:
Dress by ANNAKIKI
Sunglasses by BOTTEGA VENETA
Scarf by VINTAGE/ STYLIST’S OWN
Right:
Shirt by MIKIO SAKABE
Knit Bikini by DEFAÏENCE
Belt by DEFAÏENCE
Shoes by ANNAKIKI
Instagram: @impoppy
Link to Zig Album: https://sumerian.lnk.to/zig
Tour Dates: https://www.impoppy.com/tour
CREW CREDITS:
PhotoBook Editor-In-Chief: Alison Hernon
PhotoBook Creative Director: Mike Ruiz + @mikeruiz.one
Photographer: Joel Dubroc
Talent: Poppy
Fashion Stylist: Dre Romero
Hair + Makeup: Jaime Diaz at Paradis using Mac Cosmetics and Oribe
Photo Assistant: Nina
Tearsheets by Daniel López, Art Director, PhotoBook Magazine
Interview by Renata Salazar, Contributor, PhotoBook Magazine
Location: TheGracelandINN
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