Rebecca Black discusses her new album, SALVATION, focused on fun and exploration.
Mexican/American singer, songwriter, and DJ Rebecca Black is back with her second album, SALVATION. In our conversation, she shared how this album symbolizes a fresh start filled with joy and exploration, allowing herself to enjoy the dancefloor. After a long period of searching for the right sound, everything fell into place the day she wrote “Tears In My Pocket,” which set the tone for what she believes is her most audacious work to date.
The visual and sonic aesthetics of SALVATION complement each other beautifully. With vibrant colors and a cinematic approach, this seven-track album draws inspiration from iconic films and larger-than-life figures. Rebecca likens tracks like “Sugar Water Cyanide” to an explosion of energy, encapsulating the essence of an unforgettable night out. The album offers a captivating blend of risk and enjoyment, encouraging listeners to dive in and embrace moments of pure excitement. Each song aims to recreate that club atmosphere while maintaining a personal touch.
Whether she’s behind the decks or performing at the Boiler Room, SALVATION marks a new era in merging pop and club music. It represents her journey of creative freedom and self-expression, feeling both relaxed and unapologetic. Continue reading for the complete interview, stream the album on your favorite streaming platform, and catch her on tour in the US this spring, with additional dates later this year.
Listen to Rebecca Black’s SALVATION on Spotify:
Hey Rebecca, thanks for chatting with us today! Let’s dive in! Your album, SALVATION, seems to be your most club-oriented project yet. What inspired this direction, and how was your creative process different this time?
I was really seeking joy and freedom while conceptualizing this project. Honestly, I found myself going out more, spending considerable time in clubs. After wrapping up my first album, I explored various directions for almost a year. It wasn’t until we wrote “Tears In My Pocket” that I felt we had discovered a sound unlike anything I’d experienced before. This writing process was unlike previous ones because I focused on creating a cohesive sound rather than just experimenting. After each session, I could quickly identify which songs I wanted to finish, which helped keep my focus sharp.
What was your vision for “Sugar Water Cyanide,” and how do you want listeners to experience it?
“Sugar Water Cyanide” represents my most uninhibited and free moments in the studio. Knowing it was my final writing session for this project, I aimed to put everything on the table. Jesse, Nick, and I found an immediate synergy, aiming to create something bold and risky. We all share similar backgrounds as club kids and consider ourselves pop music historians. We wanted the song to encapsulate the pinnacle of a night out, a feeling of losing yourself, even if you’re completely sober.
You mentioned that SALVATION is some of your most personal work. Are there specific tracks that resonate with you on a deeper level?
This project is incredibly significant to me. I allowed myself to explore emotions I hadn’t before and let them guide the writing. Currently, my favorites from a writing standpoint are “Tears” and “Salvation,” but that could change as I evolve alongside the songs. There were several tracks that didn’t make the final cut that I hold dear, and perhaps one day they’ll see the light of day when the time is right.
How are you shaping the visual landscape of SALVATION, and what themes are you exploring?
It’s all about brightness, color, and a sense of grandeur! I drew inspiration from my favorite Tarantino films and others like Chicago, Showgirls, and Thelma and Louise. My goal was to create a persona that reflects a side of myself I’ve always known but never fully expressed. Influential figures like Trisha Paytas, Dolly Parton, and Anna Nicole were also significant references.
You’ve performed as both a singer and a DJ, each with a distinct energy. How do you approach DJing compared to live performances?
For me, DJing is like a night out. I show up in jeans with a selection of songs I’ve downloaded on SoundCloud, ready to have fun. It feels like the truest version of Rebecca (or RB, as my friends call me). In contrast, my live shows are meticulously planned, taking months to refine every detail.
Your Boiler Room set garnered significant attention. How did it feel to step into that environment, and do you envision DJing becoming a larger part of your career?
It still feels surreal to have had that opportunity. I was nervous walking in, but even though it wasn’t my perfect set, it’s one of my favorites because I played only my absolute favorite mixes. The energy in the room was electric, far beyond what any camera could capture. I genuinely enjoy DJing, and it’s a fun aspect of my current work. While I can’t predict where it will lead, creating my own music will always be my top priority. However, there’s a natural connection between the two facets of my artistry that I cherish.
Do you believe there’s an increasing space for crossover artists in both pop and electronic music?
It seems to me that pop and dance music are evolving alongside each other right now, with mutual influences at play. What fascinates me is that, despite this convergence, both genres still exist as distinct realms, complete with their respective communities. The music landscape sometimes shifts in ways we can’t fully control. Albums often take years to develop before they reach listeners, and I’ve experienced moments like with SALVATION where I finished it just before the rest of the year’s pop/dance music was released, realizing we were all on the same wavelength. It’s intriguing!
You’ve played both large festivals and intimate club gigs. What’s your ideal performance setting, and what do you love about the energy of a live audience?
They offer very different experiences. Clubs have a unique heat and energy that’s exhilarating. Those are my favorite shows to attend as well. There’s this shared understanding in the room that creates a special atmosphere. On the other hand, performing on a massive festival stage is incredible, allowing more space to move compared to a club stage. The crowd feels like a wave, while a club audience has a more intimate vibe. I feel fortunate to experience both.
With SALVATION marking a new phase in your career, what excites you most about the future?
I’m thrilled to be immersed in the world of SALVATION, which we’ve built over the past two years. It has required immense effort, patience, and perseverance as an independent artist, and finally witnessing people enjoy it feels incredibly rewarding.
